Racial and ethnic differences in cardiovascular disease risk factors: a systematic review.

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in the United States, and disproportionate rates are seen in racial and ethnic minority populations. Systematically assessing and quantifying modifiable CVD risk factors is therefore crucial in these populations. Better understanding and awareness of the disparities of CVD risk factors by race and ethnicity may help clinicians and public health professionals develop culturally sensitive interventions, prevention programs, and services specifically targeted toward risk burdens in each of these populations.