Health topic
Heart Health
Heart disease is the leading killer of Black Americans. Prevention, treatment and the research changing those numbers.
The number
2x
Higher risk of heart failure for Black adults
Why it matters
High blood pressure develops earlier and more often in Black adults, and it is the single biggest driver of heart attack, stroke and kidney failure.
- Know your blood pressure number
- Check cholesterol every 4-6 years
- Move 30 minutes, 5 days a week
- Ask about salt in the foods you love
Articles
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Latest · Heart Health
Understanding the Elevated Risk of Stroke in Black Communities
High rates of hypertension, diabetes, and systemic health inequities place Black adults at an elevated risk for stroke, highlighting the urgent need for culturally competent cardiovascular care.
September 1, 2026 · Source: KERA News

Heart Health
Updated Cardiovascular Risk Assessment Tool Recalibrates Heart Disease Estimates for Women and Black Adults
An updated American Heart Association tool changes how cardiovascular disease is calculated for women and Black patients, shifting away from race-based metrics.
August 19, 2026 · Source: Inside Precision Medicine

Heart Health
Addressing Stroke Care Disparities for Black Patients in Rural Communities
Dr. Kevin Kwaku addresses the acute challenges facing Black rural stroke patients and highlights the urgent need for equitable cardiovascular care.
August 19, 2026 · Source: The Cardiology Advisor

Heart Health
Life-Stage Prevention Model Key to Closing Racial Disparities in Women's Heart Health
A new study advocates for a lifelong, personalized approach to women's heart health to eliminate racial disparities and lower cardiovascular risks.
August 8, 2026 · Source: JACC Journals

Heart Health
Addressing Geography and Equity in Rural Hypertension Management
A new American Heart Association focus highlights how geographical isolation and systemic inequities exacerbate high blood pressure risks for rural Black populations.
August 8, 2026 · Source: professional.heart.org

Heart Health
Stroke Risk May Differ for Black Adults Based on Where They Were Born
New research highlights how birth region influences long-term stroke susceptibility among Black Americans, pointing to the need for targeted public health interventions.
August 7, 2026 · Source: Brain & Life