Few Blacks Know Of Connection Between Cardiovascular Health, Dementia, Survey Shows

Main Category: Cardiovascular / Cardiology
Also Included In: Alzheimer's / Dementia
Article Date: 12 Feb 2008 - 10:00 PDT

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While many blacks have high blood pressure and high cholesterol, few are aware that such factors put them at risk for dementia, according to a survey to be released this week, USA Today reports. The survey, by Richard Day Research for the Alzheimer's Association and the American Heart Association, included responses from more than 2,000 people, including 1,210 blacks.

The survey showed that most people do not know the connection between poor cardiovascular health and the risk of dementia, USA Today reports. In addition, one-third of blacks said they have high blood pressure, while one in five reported high cholesterol, according to the survey.

Emil Martarese, a spokesperson for the American Stroke Association, said, "There's evidence to show that African-Americans are at greater risk of heart disease, strokes and dementia." According to Jennifer Manly of the Alzheimer's Association, blacks can take steps, such as having a healthy diet and exercising regularly, to reduce their risk of developing diabetes, high blood pressure and clogged arteries (Fackelmann, USA Today, 2/11).

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