Five critical heart facts black people need to know

According to the American Heart Association, more than 121 million Americans are dealing with heart problems. Additionally, more than 800,000 people have heart attacks every year. As startling as those numbers are, though, the statistics about heart disease are even more troubling for black people. Here are a few of them you need to know.

1. Black Americans are 30 percent more likely to have high blood pressure.

To make matters worse, black women are 50 percent more likely to have high blood pressure than other ethnicities. This information is important to note because high blood pressure is linked to heart disease and angina.

High blood pressure can damage your arteries and affect how well blood flows through your body. As arteries become less elastic, heart problems become more likely.

2. Only 40 percent of Americans have their diagnosed hypertension under control.

Studies show that many black Americans don’t see a doctor when they have signs of high blood pressure. Even when they have been diagnosed, less than half of them actually have it under control. This mismanagement of their high blood pressure increases their risk of heart disease.

Though different factors can affect why people don’t take their medications, affordability is a common one. It’s important, therefore, to discuss medical assistance options with your doctor.

3. Approximately 15 percent of black Americans smoke.

This number may seem small but consider that the percentage is lower for other ethnicities.

Research shows that the chemicals in cigarettes can cause your blood to thicken and clot. These clots then lead to heart attacks and other cardiac events. It’s best to stop smoking as your risk of having heart problems starts to decrease as soon as you step away from the cigarettes.

4. Black Americans are almost 1.5 times more likely to be classified as being overweight or obese.

The numbers are even worse when gender is considered. It’s estimated that four out of five black women are considered to be overweight or obese. These statistics are significant because of the conclusive link between being overweight and having heart problems.

Additionally, obesity can lead to other illnesses that are associated with heart disease such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

5. Black Americans are 30 percent more likely to die from heart disease.

The factors leading up to this statistic can be complicated. According to certain studies, black Americans might not have access to the health care they need when it comes to heart disease and the conditions that lead up to it. They may also get diagnosed at a later stage than other ethnicities.

Regardless of the cause, the result is the same: Black people are dying more readily from heart disease than other ethnicities. It’s essential, therefore, that you do everything you can to keep yourself healthy – including fighting to get the healthcare you need.

How to take care of your heart

Though those facts can be sobering, it doesn’t mean you can’t do anything about your risk of heart disease. A few healthy lifestyle changes can easily get you back on track. Doctors recommend getting regular exercise to strengthen your heart and maintain a healthy weight. You’re not limited to which form of exercise you do, either. All that matters is being moderately active for at least 30 minutes each day.

When it comes to your diet, it’s best to avoid processed foods and anything that is high in fat, salt, or added sugar. You’re better off filling your meals with whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, lean protein, as well as foods that are high in fiber. Finally, alcohol should only be had in moderation.

Since smoking increases your risk of heart trouble, you should avoid it at all costs. Of course, all this should be complemented by scheduled visits to your doctor. Regular checkups will ensure that your doctor will notice any changes in your heart health and take action quickly. You should also keep any other chronic conditions under control. Certain illnesses such as diabetes and kidney disease can affect your heart if not managed properly.

Statistics consistently show that black Americans are at a higher risk for heart-related problems than other ethnicities. Fortunately, you can take the right steps to protect your heart and prevent these issues.