Lower socioeconomic status is linked to a higher risk of death from coronary artery disease (CAD), with unhealthy behaviors playing a significant role in this disparity. A recent study by Dr. Yachen Zhu from the Alcohol Research Group in the U.S. and Dr. Charlotte Probst from the Center for Addiction and Mental Health in Canada, published on September 17 in PLOS Medicine, highlights these findings.
Coronary artery disease, also referred to as coronary heart disease or ischemic heart disease, occurs when the arteries supplying blood to the heart become narrowed due to plaque buildup. This condition is a leading cause of death in the U.S.
Research indicates that individuals with lower socioeconomic status face a greater risk of developing CAD, although previous studies have produced mixed results regarding the impact of specific unhealthy behaviors, such as smoking.
In their study, the researchers analyzed data from over 524,000 adults aged 25 and older who were tracked through the National Death Index and participated in the National Health Interview Survey. They focused on education as a key indicator of socioeconomic status and examined four main risk factors: smoking, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, and body mass index (BMI). The analysis revealed that these four behaviors accounted for 74% of the differences in CAD mortality risk among men and 61% among women across different socioeconomic groups.
The authors emphasize the importance of targeted public health policies and interventions that address these unhealthy behaviors both individually and collectively. They point out that these behaviors tend to cluster among individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.
The researchers advocate for public health campaigns tailored to raise awareness about heart health, with specific messaging aimed at both men and women.
In conclusion, the study underscores the urgent need to reduce socioeconomic disparities in CAD-related deaths in the U.S., highlighting that addressing unhealthy behaviors is crucial for improving overall heart health outcomes.