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: During the first 15 years of this century, the death rate for African Americans declined by 25%. However, there are still disparities in the incidence and death rates for certain diseases. Here’s a look at the top health concerns for Black Americans. Knowing your risks of these conditions can help you make positive changes to take control of your health. 1
Heart Disease
Heart disease remains the number one killer of all Americans. So, it’s not surprising that it’s the leading cause of death for African Americans. However, African Americans are 20% more likely to die from heart disease compared to Caucasians. And African American heart disease strikes earlier, with those ages 18 to 49 at twice the risk of death compared to whites. This may be related to social factors and health risks that affect African Americans at younger ages. But there is a bright spot: