Cardiovascular Health among African-Americans: A Review of the Health Status, Risk Reduction, and Intervention Strategies

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Abstract
Background.: This article reviews the literature of African-American risk and identifies the disparity in cardiovascular health status, particularly hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and cigarette smoking, and mortality rates between African-Americans and whites. Methods.: Data on African-Americans' knowledge and attitudes toward preventing hypertension and heart disease are summarized and compared to that of whites. Results.: Program implementation details such as communication channels, activities, and health outcomes in cardiovascular risk reduction programs in African-American communities are summarized. Discussion.: Promising approaches to program planning and implementation for cardiovascular risk reduction among African-Americans are recommended.