In a recent publication in the journal Circulation, researchers present the most up-to-date statistics on heart disease (HD), stroke, and cardiovascular risk factors, with a heightened focus on health equity and the imperative to address structural racism within healthcare.
Background:
The annual collaboration between the American Heart Association (AHA) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) yields comprehensive statistics on HD, stroke, and related risk factors. This includes a detailed analysis of health behaviors, such as smoking and obesity, as well as various heart and circulatory conditions, shedding light on their impact on healthcare quality and costs.
Over nearly a century, the AHA has consistently updated these statistics, evolving into a vital resource for stakeholders ranging from the public, policymakers, and clinicians to researchers and the media. The data not only guides policy development and resource allocation but also informs critical cardiovascular research priorities.
Cardiovascular Health and Risk Factors:
While substantial progress has been made in reducing cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk over the past century, the prevalence of certain risk factors, including diabetes, population aging, and health inequities, continues to rise. Approximately 48.6% of the U.S. population aged 20 and older are estimated to have CVDs, with disparities impacting communities such as non-Hispanic black females and males, where 59% are living with CVDs.
Despite a 60% decrease in CVD-related death rates since 1950, challenges persist. Notably, health disparities and inequities, compounded by factors like diabetes and rising electronic cigarette use among adolescents, underscore the need for ongoing research and intervention.
Physical Activity, Diet, and Weight:
The review highlights concerning statistics related to physical activity, with a significant portion of the population failing to meet recommended exercise guidelines. Similarly, poor dietary patterns in the U.S. significantly impact cardiovascular health, influenced by social and environmental factors such as education, income, and neighborhood food availability.
These factors contribute to high overweight and obesity rates, affecting 71.2% of U.S. adults and 20% of adolescents. The report emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to address these lifestyle-related risk factors.
Related Health Conditions and Diseases:
The prevalence of heart failure cases is attributed to congenital heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and smoking. Disparities in diabetes rates among different ethnicities and genders underscore the need for targeted healthcare strategies. Despite effective medications like sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists, underutilization remains a challenge.
Metabolic syndrome prevalence has increased, particularly among Mexican American adults, linked to socioeconomic factors. The report also highlights various health conditions impacting CVD risk, including cerebrovascular diseases, pregnancy-related issues, congenital defects, Kawasaki disease, kidney disease, atherosclerosis, valvular diseases, peripheral artery disease, and aortic diseases.
The Role of AHA:
The American Heart Association continues to champion science, innovation, and patient advocacy, working towards healthier global communities. By elucidating past and present trends, the report provides a foundation for researchers worldwide to develop effective strategies against HD and stroke. The AHA remains steadfast in its commitment to creating a world of longer, healthier lives, promoting health and hope for everyone, everywhere.
