Abstract
Background: African immigrants (AIs) constitute a highly diverse and rapidly growing population in the US, particularly in New York City. Yet, their cardiovascular health remains understudied. We examined the prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors and identified predictors of increased CVD risk among AIs residing in the five New York City (NYC) boroughs. Objective: To examine the relationship between social determinants (marital status, education, employment, and health insurance) and CVD risk factors among AIs living in NYC. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among AIs ≥30 years residing in NYC. Outcomes of interest were self-reported CVD risk factors assessed individually (hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, overweight/obesity, and poor sleep). Using logistic regression analyses, we examined the associations between social determinants and individual CVD risk factors, adjusting for age and sex. Results: Of 215 participants, the mean age was 54 (SD: 11.7) years, and 70% were female. The majority (93%) had ≥1 of the 6 CVD risk factors. Smoking was least prevalent, and overweight/obesity was most prevalent (76%); with 42%, and 18% having a prior diagnosis of hypertension and diabetes, respectively. Those who were employed had ≥ bachelor's education were less likely to have hyperlipidemia (adjusted Odds Ratio [aOR]: 0.35, 95%CI: 0.15-0.86, or overweight/obesity (aOR: 0.31, 95%CI: 1.11-0.88); and twice (aOR: 2.14, 95%CI: 1.11-4.15), more likely to report poor sleep. However, being married and having health insurance were associated with a 3-fold (aOR: 3.08, 95%CI: 1.12-8.50) and 4-fold (aOR: 4.07, 95%CI: 1.12-14.73) higher likelihood of being overweight/obese. Conclusions: The prevalence of CVD risk factors among AIs was particularly high. Culturally-appropriate interventions and policies to reduce CVD risk factors are highly recommended for this population.
Published Version
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