Heart disease - Health Hotline

Ebony, July, 2003

HEART disease is the ultimate destroyer in the Black community, killing more people than AIDS and cancer combined.

According to the American Heart Association's latest report, "Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics, 2003 Update" the numbers are stunning: 33.5 percent of Black males and 40.6 percent of Black females succumb to the disease annually.

Medical experts say Black women are 60 percent more likely to die of heart disease than White women are. Black women are more likely to have high blood pressure and diabetes, both of which increase the risk of having heart disease. A gene found in Blacks has been linked to a six-fold increase in the risk of heart disease in Blacks.

Indicators of heart disease are pain, fatigue, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, fainting, light-headedness, swelling in the feet, ankles, abdomen and legs, fever, lack of appetite, sweating and nausea.

Doctors constantly stress the steps that could prevent heart disease, including lifestyle changes that center exercise and a low-fat, low-cholesterol, low-sodium diet. Additionally, in some cases, doctors recommend the "aspirin a day" therapy. The blood pressure and blood sugar should be kept in check. Consult with a doctor before starting an exercise program to help maintain a healthy weight and reduce stress.

The best mode of combatting heart disease is to reduce the risk factors that can lead to the fatal disease. Your first step is to visit your doctor for a complete examination. Modern technological advances, such as the electron beam tomography (EBT) heart scan, can give you a clear picture of your heart and any clogged arteries that can cause trouble.

Secondly, implementing a healthier lifestyle is in order, especially if you are at risk for heart disease. This means avoiding nicotine and, if you are diabetic, keeping your condition under control. Other vital lifestyle habits include maintaining a diet that is rich in vitamins and antioxidants and low in cholesterol and saturated fat--studies show that the risk of heart disease increases as your total amount of cholesterol increases.

You should also achieve or maintain a healthy weight by exercising for at least 30 minutes a day. This reduces the onset of obesity and reduces your risk of heart disease.

Try to remain as stress-free as possible--experts warn that prolonged exposure to stress and anger can lead to heart attack and stroke.