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Heart Health: African American Women

heart health
February is American Heart Health month and a time to focus on the well-being of our cardiovascular health.
heart health

February is American Heart Health month and a time to focus on the well-being of our cardiovascular health. According to the CDC, heart disease and stroke is the No. 1 killer in women, and stroke disproportionately affects African-Americans. It is worth mentioning, African-American women are considerably less likely than their Caucasian counterparts to know that heart disease is the leading cause of death.

Diabetes, smoking, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, physical inactivity, obesity and a family history of heart disease are all greatly prevalent among African-Americans and are major risk factors for heart disease and stroke. What’s more, African-American women have almost two times the risk of stroke than Caucasians, and more likely to die at an earlier age when compared to women of other ethnicities (Go Red For Women.com). 

These facts are unsettling, to say the least. Even more concerning are the stats regarding heart health awareness. Go Red For Women.com shares that:

  • Only 52 percent of African-American women are aware of the signs and symptoms of a heart attack.
  • Only 36 percent of African-American women know that heart disease is their greatest health risk.

Knowing how important heart health is and the impact lack of knowledge can ultimately have, awareness is crucial! Here are the warning signs of a stroke

  • Sudden weak or numb feeling, in the face, arm or leg…particularly on one side of the body.
  • Challenges speaking, understanding or sudden, general confusion. 
  • A sudden inability to see out of one or both eyes
  • Loss of coordination, sudden dizziness, trouble walking or dizziness.
  • Severe and sudden headache with no obvious cause. 
What you can do:
  1. Each one teach one! Spread the word to your friends, family and network about heart health to raise awareness.
  2. Check out the CDC website for various helpful heart health toolkits, including the Hypertension Control Resources for Individuals and Patients

While you’re here, mosey on through the helpful pages, links and resources here to make your life easier available on the site. We are here to support you with Answers, Help and Hope.

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