Title: 8 Conditions With Higher Risk for African Americans
Headings: 8 Conditions With Higher Risk for African Americans
8 Conditions With Higher Risk for African Americans
About The Author
Sarah Lewis, PharmD

Content: African American deaths from heart disease have decreased 43% in those age 65 and older. 2
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is a risk factor for heart disease. So, it makes sense that African American high blood pressure statistics are also disproportionate. High blood pressure tends to develop earlier, be more severe, and is less likely to be controlled in African Americans. They are 40% more likely to have high blood pressure than non-Hispanic whites. And for Black women, the numbers are worse—they are 60% more likely to have high blood pressure. Research exploring high blood pressure in African Americans suggests a gene may make them more salt sensitive. And doctors know certain classes of high blood pressure medicines are better first-line choices for this group. So, check your blood pressure regularly and talk with your doctor about your risks. 3
Obesity
In the United States, African Americans have the highest rate of being overweight or obese.