Factors affecting decision making in Hispanics experiencing myocardial infarction
1School of Nursing, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78701, USA. jdsanderson@seton.org
Summary
Hispanic individuals show lower awareness of heart attack symptoms and emergency response compared to non-Hispanic Whites. Understanding factors like acculturation and language is crucial for targeted myocardial infarction (MI) interventions.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Public Health
- Health Disparities
Background:
- Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death for Hispanic men and women in the U.S.
- A significant knowledge gap exists regarding myocardial infarction (MI) symptom recognition and emergency response between Hispanic and non-Hispanic White populations.
- In 2010, an estimated 785,000 new, 470,000 recurrent, and 195,000 silent myocardial infarctions (MIs) were projected in the United States.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore factors influencing decision-making among Hispanics experiencing a myocardial infarction (MI).
- To identify barriers to recognizing MI symptoms and seeking timely emergency medical services within the Hispanic population.
- To inform targeted interventions for improving cardiovascular health outcomes in U.S. Hispanic communities.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the Health Belief Model as a framework for analysis.
- Examined modifying factors such as acculturation, primary language, education level, socioeconomic status, and healthcare access.
- Compared MI knowledge and emergency response activation between Hispanic and non-Hispanic White populations.
Main Results:
- Only 5.6% to 27.4% of Hispanics demonstrated full knowledge of MI symptoms and the importance of immediate emergency medical services activation.
- In contrast, 11.9% to 45.8% of non-Hispanic Whites possessed this knowledge.
- Acculturation, language, education, socioeconomic status, and healthcare access were identified as key modifying factors influencing decision-making during a potential MI event.
Conclusions:
- Significant disparities in MI symptom awareness and emergency response necessitate culturally tailored public health initiatives.
- Future research and clinical practices should focus on developing targeted interventions addressing the specific needs and barriers faced by Hispanic populations.
- Improving health literacy and access to care are critical for reducing cardiovascular mortality in this demographic.
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