Cardiovascular Disease Among Minority

It is estimated that approximately 28 million people in the United States have clinical evidence of some form of Cardiovascular Disease. In 1984, 48% of all deaths were attributable to cardiovascular disease, two thirds of which were caused by underlying coronary and ischemic heart disease. Diseases of the heart and blood vessels are responsible for more deaths than cancer, accidents, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and pneumonia combined.

The data seems to indicate a 5:1 male to female ratio though the 4th decade of life, falling to 2:1 about the 7th decade of life. Other risk factors include genetic predisposition, hypertension, diabetes, smoking, obesity, sedentary lifestyle and high fat diet. Blacks do have a propensity to be in the high category by virtue of their inclusion and association with the above risk factors. Caribbean- Americans are without exceptions and should be particularly concerned.

The overwhelming majority of coronary disease is the result of atherosclerotic plaques. These plaques comprised of lipids and cholesterol, increase in size causing a decrease in vascular
elasticity and lumen patency which limits blood flow and oxygen to areas distal to the occlusion (blockage).

This ischemic process is felt as crushing chest pain and shortness of breath. The pain may also radiate to the arms, head, jaw and back. Normally these symptoms are associated with vascular occlusion, which if left untreated, can lead to heart attack, stroke or death depending on the severity and location of the vascular injury. 

Current therapy include medications that are taken on a continual basis or periodically at the time of symptoms. Surgical managements are coronary angioplasty, coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), and even heart transplant in severe cases. Let's not forget the beneficial and therapeutic effect of ASPIRIN as revealed by current research. Your physician should supervise each treatment modality. 

In a few short weeks, the Thanksgiving Feast will be celebrated with a lavish display of goodies, some of which are healthy, nutritious and tasty. Others are definitely contraindicated
because of existing medical conditions. Therefore it is crucial that temperance and moderation be employed during this period. Remember, it is better to eat a little and have room for
seconds than to eat too much and succumb to the ill effects of systemic diseases.

Whenever there is CHEST PAINS of unusual type(s), consult your doctor immediately or seek help at the nearest emergency room. Because this may be the early sign of a heart attack or
some form of cardiovascular disease.

-- Rawle F. Philbert, DDS