Abstract

Abstract

The racial disparity in hypertension has been prevalent among African-Americans for many years. More African-Americans have been diagnosed with high blood pressure than White-Americans. The purpose of this research is to understand why there is such a big disparity of hypertension in African-Americans and whites. Why is hypertension more prominent in African-Americans? There are many factors that lead to hypertension, such as obesity, alcohol, salt-sensitivity, stress, age, genetics and diabetes. The research I have done provides an overview of the causes of hypertension. There are numerous studies and trials being done about racial discrimination against African-Americans. Hypertension is a national and international health problem that is rising in all races. Some of the factors of hypertension in African-Americans are medication non-adherence and distrust of doctors and health care facilities. There were numerous studies done on the disparity of hypertension in African-Americans, but more needs to be done. There needs to be more studies on hypertension in children under the age of twelve. Obesity seems to be an increasing cause of hypertension in children along with heart problems from birth. When it comes to taking medications, some medications work on whites but not African-Americans. Stress and racial discrimination are two major causes of hypertension in African-Americans.

Keywords: Hypertension, African-Americans, Racial Disparity, Studies, Whites

Year Manuscript Completed

Spring 2019

Senior Project Advisor

Sharon Lancaster

Degree Awarded

Bachelor of Integrated Studies Degree

Field of Study

Human Services

Document Type

Thesis

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