Can Stress Impact My Heart Health?
Heart disease is a significant health concern, particularly among African Americans. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heart disease is the leading cause of death for African American adults in the United States, causing more deaths yearly than cancer, stroke, and diabetes combined (CDC, 2021). The term “heart disease” refers to various conditions that impact the heart, including coronary artery disease, heart attack, and congestive heart failure.
Heart disease presents differently in African American men and women, and the symptoms and risk factors can vary. For example, men are more likely to experience chest pain as a symptom of heart disease, while women are more likely to experience shortness of breath, fatigue, and pain in the neck, jaw, throat, abdomen, or back. Regarding risk factors, men are more likely to have high blood pressure, while women are more likely to have diabetes. In addition, hormonal changes in women, such as menopause, can increase the risk of heart disease. Therefore, it is crucial for both men and women to be aware of their risk factors and to seek medical attention if they experience any symptoms of heart disease.
Regardless of gender, stress is also known to play a significant role in the development of heart disease. Chronic stress can trigger the release of hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, increasing heart rate and blood pressure. Over time, this can lead to cardiovascular problems, including heart disease (American Heart Association, 2020). African Americans are disproportionately affected by stress and its associated health consequences, including heart disease – this is related to the cumulative effects of systemic racism, including poverty, discrimination, and reduced access to quality health care (Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2021). For example, Baker & Lafrankie (2019) found that African Americans who reported higher levels of perceived racial discrimination had higher cardiovascular risk factors, including elevated blood pressure, than those who reported lower levels of discrimination.
Although eliminating systemic racism is a journey, take measures to manage your stress and reduce your risk of heart disease. Make one of the following stress management strategies a daily routine:
- Sleep at least 8 hours per night
- Intentionally take 3-5 deep breaths
- Plan to move your body for 20 minutes per day
- Eat a balanced meal that includes protein, vegetables, whole grains, and fruits
- Laugh
In conclusion, heart disease is a primary concern among African Americans, and stress plays a significant role in developing heart disease. Furthermore, African Americans are disproportionately affected by stress and its associated health consequences. Therefore, eliminating the social determinants of health, which will be a journey, can decrease the burden of heart disease among African Americans. In the meantime, control the controllable and engage in stress management activities to help reduce the risk of heart disease.
References
American Heart Association. (2020). Stress and Heart Disease. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/consumer-healthcare/what-is-cardiovascular-disease/stress-and-heart-disease
Baker, K. B., & Lafrankie, T. A. (2019). Racial discrimination and cardiovascular risk in African Americans: evidence from the National Survey of American Life. Journal of Health and Social Behavior, 60(1), 68-83.
CDC. (2021). Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics—2021 Update. https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/statistics.htm
Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2021). Racism and Heart Disease: Understanding the Connection. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/racism-and-heart-disease-understanding-the-connection
