Heart disease and stroke rank as the number one killers of Latinos in America. Actually, they are the top killers for all Americans, but Latinos seem to be at a higher risk because high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes are running rampant among us. Why? Well, Dr. Martha L. Daviglus, M.D., Ph.D. says, “Latinos are more likely to delay care, drop out of treatment when symptoms disappear and avoid visits to the doctor.”
For these reasons we felt the need to present 15 heart disease facts that Latinos should know now, before it’s too late. Don’t panic, there are some easy (and relatively painless) lifestyle changes you can make that will greatly reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.
1. Obesity & Diabetes
Now, it’s true that obesity does not necessarily cause diabetes, but it certainly doesn’t help. Latino Americans are more likely to be obese and have diabetes, both of which are top risk factors for heart disease.
Read Related: Exercising as a Family to Reduce Heart Disease Risks
