Heart Failure Hospitalization by Race/Ethnicity, Gender and Age in California: Implications for Prevention

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Health Disparities Research
• Public Health Policy

Background:

• Heart failure (HF) is a significant public health concern with varying impacts across demographic groups.
• Understanding disparities in HF hospitalization rates, risk factors, and costs is crucial for effective healthcare strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine variations in heart failure (HF) hospitalization rates, associated risk factors, and healthcare costs based on race/ethnicity, gender, and age.
• To identify persistent health inequalities in HF patient populations.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of California hospital discharge data from 2007 and 2010 for patients with a primary heart failure (HF) diagnosis.
• Inclusion of demographic data for African Americans (Blacks), Hispanic/Latinos, and non-Hispanic Whites.
• Computation of age-adjusted prevalence rates using CDC methodology.

Main Results:

• Overall HF rates decreased by 7.7% between 2007 and 2010, yet remained higher for males and Black individuals.
• Younger Black individuals (≤54 years) had significantly higher HF rates compared to same-aged Whites.
• Identified risk factors for HF include hypertension, chronic heart disease, chronic kidney disease, atrial fibrillation, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
• Hospitalization costs were higher for males, Black individuals, and younger patients.

Conclusions:

• Persistent health inequality in heart failure (HF) is evident, with higher hospitalization rates for Black individuals compared to Whites and Hispanics.
• Findings underscore the necessity of investigating improved healthcare access and targeted preventive programs for hypertension and diabetes among minority populations to mitigate HF hospitalizations.