Cultural Considerations and Genetic Predispositions in Cardiovascular Health Disparities Among African Americans
Overview
This paper examines the disproportionately high mortality rates from heart disease among African Americans in the United States, analyzing the intersection of genetic predispositions, environmental factors, and socioeconomic disparities. The author discusses how cultural considerations including religion, family involvement, dietary practices, and health literacy should inform nursing care approaches for this population.
What this essay covers
- Introduction and epidemiological context of heart disease mortality disparities among African Americans
- Contributing factors including genetic variants, environmental factors, healthcare access, and socioeconomic disparities
- Cultural considerations for nursing care including spirituality, family involvement, dietary modification, and health literacy
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Cultural Considerations and Genetic Predispositions Discussion
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Cultural Considerations and Genetic Predispositions Discussion
Heart disease is the leading cause of mortality among all racial and ethnic groups in the United States. Reports indicate that managing cardiac diseases costs $229 billion yearly, including drug expenses, healthcare services, and lost productivity (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022). However, the death rates are much higher among African Americans. While the minority group makes up 13.6% of the United States population, it accounted for 20.75% of all deaths caused by heart disease in 2020 (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022). Although the death rate for African Americans above 65 years has reduced significantly, the population is 30 percent more likely to die from heart disease than non-Hispanic whites.
Many issues have led to and contributed to the health problem, including a genetic predisposition, environmental matters, inadequate access to the healthcare system, lack of resources, and health disparities. For instance, several studies have shown that individuals of African ancestry likely have a genetic variant predisposing them to develop heart failure (Coniglio et al., 2022). Socioeconomic aspects like poverty, low health literacy, and ingrained cultural practices further contribute to poorer cardiovascular health outcomes among members of the minority group (Stanhope & Lancaster, 2018). Environmental factors such as limited access to healthier food choices and safe places for physical activity in African American neighborhoods have also been linked to the high rates of heart disease among the population.