May is High Blood Pressure Education Month, a time to raise awareness and empower people to take charge of their heart health. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a major risk factor for stroke, heart disease, and kidney failure.
While high blood pressure can affect anyone, racial and ethnic minorities are disproportionately impacted. The American Heart Association reports that Black adults are nearly twice as likely to have high blood pressure as non-Hispanic white adults. Similarly, Hispanic adults are also more likely to have high blood pressure compared to non-Hispanic white adults.
There are several factors contributing to these disparities, including access to healthy food and quality healthcare. Additionally, some minority communities may have a higher genetic predisposition to high blood pressure.
Resources:
- American Heart Association: https://www.heart.org/
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/bloodpressure/index.htm
- National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/education/high-blood-pressure
Let’s work together to ensure everyone has the knowledge and resources they need to live a long and healthy life. Telligen is proud to offer our own suite of health equity solutions to identify and eliminate healthcare disparities to improve health for all. Learn more at Telligen.com/health-equity.