African Americans Live Shorter Lives Due to Heart Disease and Stroke
A recent scientific statement from the American Heart Association emphasized the impact that heart disease and stroke has on African Americans. The average lifespan of African Americans is significantly shorter than white Americans by 3.4 years (75.5 vs 78.9 years, respectively). Although heart disease is the leading killer for all Americans, African Americans develop heart disease earlier and the death rate from heart disease is higher than in white Americans.
“While socioeconomic status is a major contributor to the greater burden of heart disease and stroke in African Americans, … among the growing middle – and upper-class African American community, health outcomes are still poorer in African Americans, even when their socioeconomic status is comparable to while Americans.” The risk factors for heart disease and stroke (high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes) start earlier among African Americans.
It was noted in the statement that “13.8 percent of African American children have high blood pressure, compared to 8.4 percent of white children. In addition, obesity rates for both African children and adults are higher than for whites. ’20 percent of African American children aged 2 to 19 y ears old are obese compared to 15 percent of white children. Among adults, 58 percent of African American women and 38 percent of men are obese, compared to 33 percent of white women and 34 percent of men.”
The role of physical exercise/activity in positively addressing high blood pressure, obesity and overall cardiovascular health has long been proven. Simply starting someone on a basic walking program (objectively measuring distance/resistance can positively impact their overall history of cardiovascular issues. Soarlifeproducts offer an extensive selection of weights/pedometers/exercise equipment that can be used to start someone on an active exercise program.
Information issued 10/23/17 as an American Heart Association Scientific Statement from the American Heart Association. More information can be found at: Americanheartassociaiton.org
