Greater Cincinnati organizations launch cardiovascular awareness effort to improve Latina heart health
(GREATER CINCINNATI, OH) May 2, 2023 – Spurred by the fact that heart disease is the number 1 cause of death in Latina women and that approximately half of Hispanic/Latina women have cardiovascular disease, a group of Greater Cincinnati health organizations have joined together to launch a Latina Heart Health Awareness Campaign. This new collaboration aims to shed a spotlight on the high prevalence of heart disease in the Latina community.
The campaign is spearheaded by Dr. Odayme Quesada, Medical Director, Women’s Heart Center at The Christ Hospital Health Network and the Greater Cincinnati American Heart Association. Joining the effort is Lorena Mora Mowry from Mujer Latina Today, the Latino Affairs Commission of Ohio, Institute for Health Equity and Innovation, the Hispanic Chamber Cincinnati USA, Northern Kentucky Esperanza Latino Center, Fairfield Lane Public Library, La Mega, and the Latino Health Collaborative.
“There is a disproportionately high incidence of heart disease within the Latina community because of prevalent risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity and lack of exercise,” said Dr. Quesada. “It is critical that we educate Latinas about how to reduce these risk factors and instill necessary lifestyle modifications.”
The Latina Heart Health Awareness Campaign intends to meet people where they are at community events such as the Tan Latina Como Tu Expo which was held on Sunday, March 19, 2023 at the Sharonville Convention Center. Dr. Quesada spoke about cardiovascular health among Latinas. Dr Maria Espinola, Psy.D, Chief Executive Officer of the Institute for Health Equity and Innovation spoke about the relationship between mental and physical health (with a specific focus on cardiovascular health).
The Latina Heart Health Campaign includes a series of informational videos in Spanish that can be found at TheChristHospital.com/LHH.
For Media Inquiries: James Buechele, The Christ Hospital Health Network, (724) 513-5890, James.Buechele@thechristhospital.com
By the Numbers:
More than 43% of Latinas have cardiovascular disease.
On average Latinas will have cardiovascular disease 10 years before non-Latinas.
70% of Latinas have at least 1 risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
The risk factors with the highest prevalence in Latinas in overweight/obesity (78%), high blood pressure (41%), prediabetes/diabetes (41%) and high cholesterol (24%).
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About Go Red for Women®
The American Heart Association’s signature initiative, Go Red for Women®, is a comprehensive platform designed to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women globally. While the majority of cardiac events can be prevented, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women, claiming the lives of 1 in 3 women. For 19 years, Go Red for Women has encouraged awareness. The movement harnesses the energy, passion and power of women to band together and collectively wipe out heart disease. It challenges them to know their risk for heart disease and take action to reduce their personal risk. It also gives them tools they need to lead a heart healthy life. The Go Red for Women movement is nationally sponsored by CVS Health, with additional support from national cause supporters. For more information, please visit GoRedforWomen.org or call 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721).
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Lori Fovel: lori.fovel@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org
