Demographics of Heart Disease
Heart disease is a leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 610,000 people die of heart disease in the U.S. each year, which amounts to one in every four deaths.
Heart disease is more likely to occur with age, and the risk increases with obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Men are more likely to develop heart disease than women before the age of 65. After age 65, the risk of heart disease is equal for both genders.
Race and Ethnicity
African Americans, Hispanics, and American Indians/Alaska Natives are more likely to suffer from heart disease than non-Hispanic whites. People of these races and ethnicities are more likely to suffer from high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity, which are all risk factors for heart disease.
Geography
Heart disease is more common in certain geographic regions. People living in the South and Northeast have higher rates of heart disease than those living in the West and Midwest.
Income Level
People living in poverty are more likely to suffer from heart disease than those living in higher income households. This is likely due to a lack of access to healthy food choices, a lack of access to healthcare, and higher rates of smoking.
Lifestyle Choices
Certain lifestyle choices increase the risk of heart disease, including smoking, lack of physical activity, and unhealthy diet. People who are sedentary, smoke, and eat an unhealthy diet are more likely to get heart disease than those who lead a healthy lifestyle.