Did you know that heart disease is the number one killer for African American women? Did you also know that February is American Heart Month as well as Black History Month?
Here are some statistics & facts on African American women and heart disease:
-For adult African American women, the rate of coronary HD is related to education, income and poverty status.
-46.1% African American women have high blood pressure.
-African American women are disproportionately affected by heart disease.
-African American women are less aware of their heart health risk factors.
-African American women are 27% less likely to get meds to lower their cholesterol – ask your doc!
-Heart attack symptoms can be very different in women & men.
-There’s a link between depression and heart disease. Exercise can help.
-Depression makes it difficult for women to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
And unfortunately you don’t have to have a family history or any other health factors to be at risk. Want to know how I know that? I am one of those African American women. I have essential hypertension with no risk factors associated with it. You can read my story.
High blood pressure is a risk of heart disease which makes this topic all that more important to me.
I have teamed up with WomenHeart: the National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease, in commemoration of American Heart Month and Black History Month to help raise awareness of this preventable disease while celebrating the rich history of African Americans.
As a part of the #29DaysofHeart campaign, each day from January 31st to February 28th, we will highlight the accomplishment of an African American woman or historical trailblazer by sharing a photo image, short biography and heart health information on our social media channels. Follow along on Facebook & Twitter. And don’t forget to share these daily posts with your friends, families and social networks so they can learn more about African American women and heart disease.
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