Heart Disease in African American Women: 10 Things to Look Out For

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in women, but it is even more deadly in women of African descent. According to the American Heart Association, over 50% of Black women have some form of cardiovascular disease in the U.S., and they are dying at younger ages than white women. Half of the women with the disease are ages 20 and up. However, only 1 in 5 Black women knows she is individually at risk. The following indicators are items to monitor regarding heart health. 

Studies show that beauty salons and beauty shops are better locations for promoting healthy behavior. The populations that need the information the most are not always in venues that inform of the latest and most necessary medical information.  Besides beauty shops, outreach needs to be extended to other areas where Black women gather, like faith-based organizations and community centers. 

Only 58% of Black women know how to recognize and react to the signs and symptoms of a heart attack. Common heart attack warning signs include:

• Pain or discomfort in chest
• Lightheadedness, nausea or vomiting
• Jaw, neck or back pain
• Discomfort or pain in arm or shoulder
• Shortness of breath  

Depending on her lifestyle, Black women may prepare foods with more salt or oil. If vegetables are fried in grease, or French fries are a regular snack, you need to replace these foods with healthier ones. Your arteries will benefit from fresh vegetables instead, or a baked potato. 

There are many health disparities that can be more prevalent in Black women. Most of the major risk factors for cardiovascular disease are found in this demographic.  This includes diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, smoking, and inactivity. The combination makes heart disease number one in this population. 

Doctors have found that there is a gene that makes Blacks more sensitive to salt. Being more sensitive to salt can increase the risk of high blood pressure. In those with the genes, minimal amounts of salt could easily raise the blood pressure by 5 mmHg.

Genetics plays a role in risks, as well. Genes can make you more prone to developing certain illnesses. Genetics and family history are also important in the development of cancer and diabetes. 

The chemicals in tobacco further damage your heart and blood vessels by decreasing oxygen uptake in the body.  

Over 35% of Black adults have high blood pressure. It develops earlier in life, and is more severe in blacks than whites.

Black women should limit the amount of alcohol they drink. Alcohol contains unhealthy ingredients, and many popular drinks have large amounts of sugar.

In a heart study, doctors noted that half of Blacks had high blood pressure as they were sleeping. That is abnormal and is hazardous to your health. It is thought that this is due to nervous system imbalances at night. Instead of remaining calm, the body remains alert, stressed, and ready to respond to danger. Sleeping at ease reduces the strain on the heart.