The Silent Killer Black Women Aren't talking About
Sunday, February 16th, 2025
Ever consider what the leading cause of death in women is? Breast cancer? Diabetes? You might be surprised to learn that heart disease is the top cause of death for all women in the United States. However, 58% of black women are diagnosed with heart disease, which is the highest of all ethnic groups.
High blood pressure drastically increases your risk of heart disease. Unlike most diseases, high blood pressure has no symptoms, which is why it’s often referred to as the “silent killer” of women. High blood pressure is preventable for most, so awareness is key.
What is High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure (aka. hypertension) occurs when your heart must work harder to circulate blood throughout your body. The longer your heart must work harder to circulate blood, the more pressure it puts on your arteries. This increases your risk of heart disease and stroke.
As a black woman, a diagnosis of high blood pressure under the age of 35 triples your risk of having a stroke. A diagnosis over the age of 45 doubles your risk of having a stroke. By the age of 55, 3 out of 4 black adults are diagnosed with hypertension.
Why Are Black Women at a Greater Risk of Hypertension?
Black men and women may be genetically predisposed to retain more salt in our kidneys. This salt sensitivity increases our risk of hypertension. Combined with socioeconomic factors or limited access to quality healthcare, the risk increases.
Can High Blood Pressure be Short Term?
Yes! Stress is a leading cause of short-term high blood pressure that lasts a few hours or a few days. When stress is high, your body releases adrenaline and cortisol into your bloodstream to help you cope. These stress hormones elevate your heartbeat and cause your blood vessels to narrow. This can cause a short-term increase in blood pressure. However, stress can be long-lasting.
Reducing your risk of high blood pressure is one of many reasons to keep stress in check.
Taking a Proactive (or Reactive) Approach to
Heart Health
About 46% of adults with high blood pressure haven’t been diagnosed, so don’t skip your annual physical. Knowing your blood pressure is in range provides peace of mind. If it’s high or on the rise, the sooner you know the sooner you can make positive lifestyle changes.
Proper nutrition, regular exercise, limited alcohol intake, and quitting (or never starting) smoking are the best ways to protect your heart’s health. A family history of heart disease, prescription medication side effects, and some diseases can increase your risk of high blood pressure.
Ready to Get Moving?
If you have a desk job, you’ll need to find ways to move more throughout the day to keep your blood circulating properly. If you can, sit on a balance ball or ergonomic chair or use a standing/convertible desk at least a few hours a day. Also take small opportunities to move more, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator.
Group Dance FiTness Class in Orlando
If you’re searching for an uplifting and community-driven fitness experience, join me for my group Zumba and Les Mills Bodyjam classes. Let’s dance it out for your heart health!
Reach out to view my group dance fitness class schedule.