Addressing cardiovascular disparities through community interventions.

OBJECTIVES

To identify the components and impact of intervention programs aimed at reducing cardiovascular disparities.

METHODS

A MEDLINE literature search with key words "cardiovascular" and "African American" was conducted, and all documented interventions targeted at reducing racial disparities were selected for review. We identified the type of intervention, the populations targeted, the length of intervention, and its impact. Articles that documented scientific evidence and some case reports were reviewed.

RESULTS

Existing studies widely document cardiovascular disparities as they pertain to structure, process, and outcomes. Other factors affecting disparities pertain to patient, physician, system, or treatment factors. Documented programs tend to focus on lifestyle risk factors and attitudes toward those risk factors. The timelines in the studies are relatively short and do not allow for recording clinical endpoints. Most of the studies do not hinge on comprehensive community support, and they lack a sustainability component.

CONCLUSIONS

The impact of programs has been short lived, which points to the need for sustainability programs possibly through community partnerships.