Eliminating Disparities in Cardiovascular Disease for Black Women: JACC Review Topic of the Week

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Disparities
• Cardiovascular Medicine

Background:

• Black women experience a disproportionate burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) morbidity and mortality.
• The U.S. racialized social structure significantly influences CVD research and healthcare delivery for this population.
• Existing disparities in healthcare delivery, research, and CVD outcomes necessitate urgent, sustainable solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the urgent need for effective and sustainable solutions to advance cardiovascular health equity for Black women.
• To emphasize the importance of considering ethnic diversity, regions of origin, and acculturation in tailored strategies.
• To advocate for innovative approaches addressing social determinants of health and unique health-seeking behaviors.

Main Methods:

• This study is a review and synthesis of existing evidence on cardiovascular health disparities in Black women.
• It emphasizes a qualitative approach, analyzing the impact of social determinants and systemic factors.
• The proposed framework involves collaboration among diverse stakeholders.

Main Results:

• Evidence indisputably shows significant disparities in CVD research, healthcare delivery, and outcomes for Black women.
• Culturally tailored strategies are crucial to address the differential impact of social determinants of health.
• A patient-centered, collaborative framework is essential for improving cardiovascular outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Urgent implementation of innovative, culturally sensitive strategies is required to achieve cardiovascular health equity for Black women.
• Addressing systemic inequities and social determinants of health is paramount.
• A collaborative, patient-centered approach involving clinicians, health systems, professional societies, and government agencies is necessary.