Atlanta, GA- According to a University
of California study, Americans are more likely to die from heart attacks
in December and January than in other months. While more than 50 million
American adults - 1 in 4- have high blood pressures (hypertension), a leading
cause of heart disease and stroke, it is even more common in African Americans
(affecting 1 in 3 adults), who get it earlier and more often than whites.
Hypertension, frequently called the "silent killer," is a serious condition
that often has no symptoms.
In an effort to help fight the disease,
the Association of Black Cardiologist, Inc. (ABC), is urging all Americans,
especially African Americans, to know their blood pressure and to talk
with families and friends about their health concerns this holiday season.
"Most individuals with high blood pressure
are unaware of their condition. By educating people, especially minority
racial and ethnic populations about the importance of knowing their blood
pressure and seeking treatment, we can save lives," said B. Waine Kong,
Ph.D., J.D., ABCs chief executive officer
High blood pressure increases the risk
of heart disease and stroke, the first-and third-leading causes of death
for Americans. High blood pressure can also cause other problems, such
as heart failure, kidney disease and blindness.
African-Americans have more than three
times the national rate of hypertension-related kidney disease. They also
have an 80% higher rate of stroke-related deaths and a 50% higher heart
disease mortality rate.
In addition to raising awareness about
the disease, ABC is encouraging individuals with high blood pressure to
seeking appropriate medical care. Hypertension can often be controlled
through lifestyle modifications (e.g., diet and exercise), medication,
or a combination of the two.
"Individuals with hypertension often have
family members with the disease as well. As families come together for
the holiday season, it is an excellent time to discuss health issues,"
said Elizabeth O. Ofili, M.D., M.P.H.