Disparities in the COVID-19 pandemic: A clarion call for preventive cardiology

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Health Equity

Background:

• COVID-19 significantly impacted the US in 2020, ranking as the third leading cause of death.
• Factors like obesity, hypertension, diabetes, social vulnerability, and socioeconomic status exacerbated COVID-19 hospitalizations and mortality.
• Disparities in COVID-19 outcomes were evident among older adults, racial/ethnic populations, and individuals experiencing homelessness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the intersection of social injustice, cardiovascular disparities, and increased COVID-19 morbidity and mortality in US racial/ethnic populations.
• To highlight the role of immunization in mitigating COVID-19's severe impact.
• To emphasize the importance of vaccine access and overcoming barriers within communities.

Main Methods:

• This commentary summarizes a keynote lecture presented at the Cardiometabolic Health Congress (CMHC).
• The lecture focused on the social determinants of health and their impact on cardiometabolic health and infectious disease outcomes.
• Discussion included strategies for improving vaccine acceptance and uptake.

Main Results:

• Racial/ethnic populations and individuals with cardiometabolic conditions experienced disproportionately higher rates of COVID-19 morbidity and mortality.
• Social injustice and systemic inequities were identified as key drivers of these disparities.
• Vaccine acceptance, uptake, and equitable access were presented as critical interventions.

Conclusions:

• Addressing social injustice is paramount to reducing cardiovascular and cardiometabolic disparities.
• Targeted strategies utilizing trusted community leaders are essential to overcome vaccine misconceptions and barriers in racial/ethnic communities.
• Achieving widespread immunization and equitable vaccine access is vital to combatting the severe consequences of COVID-19.