Title: High Blood Pressure in African-Americans: Genetics, Risks, Causes, and More
Headings: High Blood Pressure in African-Americans
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High Blood Pressure in African-Americans
Why Is High Blood Pressure Common in African-Americans?
High Blood Pressure Risk Factors for African-Americans
Hypertension / High Blood Pressure Guide

Content: Some scientists believe that high blood pressure in African-Americans is due to factors unique to the experience of blacks in the U.S. Blacks worldwide have rates of high blood pressure that are similar to whites. In the U.S., however, the difference is dramatic: 41% of blacks have high blood pressure, as compared to 27% of whites. In addition, black people in the U.S are more likely to be overweight than blacks in other countries. Some experts think that social and economic factors -- including discrimination and economic inequality -- are responsible for this difference. Researchers will hopefully find the causes for the high incidence of high blood pressure in African-Americans. In the meantime, there is a lot you can do to keep high blood pressure from damaging your health. High Blood Pressure Risk Factors for African-Americans
Being African-American is a risk factor for developing high blood pressure. Others include: Increased age
Excessive weight
A family history of high blood pressure
Having diabetes
Inactivity
High dietary salt and fat
Low intake of potassium
Smoking
The more risk factors you have, the more likely it is that you have high blood pressure or will develop it in the future.