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The epidemiology of atherosclerosis and its risk factors among Native Americans
1Native American Cardiology Program, University of Arizona, 1501 N. Campbell Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA. galloway@u.arizona.edu
Insights
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors and atherosclerosis manifestations were historically low in Native Americans. Recent decades show a concerning increase in these CVD risk factors and atherosclerosis.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Science
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Native Americans historically exhibited lower rates of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors compared to the general US population.
- This included lower incidences of coronary heart disease, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the epidemiological shift in cardiovascular health among Native Americans.
- To underscore the rising prevalence of atherosclerosis and its associated risk factors in this demographic.
Main Methods:
- This study is a review of epidemiological trends.
- Analysis of historical and recent health data concerning cardiovascular risk factors and atherosclerosis in Native Americans.
Main Results:
- A significant increase in CVD-associated risk factors has been observed in Native Americans over recent decades.
- This rise in risk factors is paralleled by an alarming increase in the manifestations of atherosclerosis within this population.
Conclusions:
- The historical protective trend regarding cardiovascular health in Native Americans has reversed.
- Urgent public health interventions are needed to address the escalating burden of atherosclerosis and CVD risk factors in Native American communities.
Abstract:
In the past, the rates of risk factors for atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease (CVD) as well as the manifestations of coronary heart disease, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease in Native Americans have been relatively low compared to the general United States population. However, over the past several decades the rates of these CVD-associated risk factors have markedly increased with the concomitant development of a significant and alarming rise in the manifestations of atherosclerosis.