Fatima Rodriguez, MD, MPH, FACC Assistant Professor Cardiovascular Medicine Stanford University School of Medicine

No Evidence to Support the “Hispanic Paradox” of Cardiovascular Disease

MedicalResearch.com Interview with:

Fatima Rodriguez, MD, MPH, FACC Assistant Professor Cardiovascular Medicine Stanford University School of Medicine

Dr. Rodriguez

Fatima Rodriguez, MD, MPH, FACC
Assistant Professor
Cardiovascular Medicine
Stanford University School of Medicine

MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings? 

Response: The “Hispanic Paradox” is an idea based on some epidemiological observations that Hispanics have lower disease prevalence and mortality (across a wide spectrum of disease states), despite adverse risk profiles and lower socioeconomic status than their non-Hispanic white counterparts.

Our study is unique in that it includes a Hispanic population with overall high educational attainment followed longitudinally. In contrast to prior work in this area, we found no evidence in support of the Hispanic paradox for estimated atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk, atherosclerotic disease (as measured by CAC), or overall mortality.

MedicalResearch.com: What should readers take away from your report?

Response: Hispanics are a heterogenous group in terms of cardiovascular risk and outcomes. Previously held notions about the cardiovascular health of Hispanics in the U.S. may not be consistent across socioeconomically diverse groups. 

MedicalResearch.com: What recommendations do you have for future research as a result of this work?

Response: Future studies need to consider the diversity within the Hispanic population and capture granular data on socioeconomic factors and acculturation. 

No relevant disclosures. 

Citation:

Rodriguez F, Leonard D, DeFina L, et al. Association of Educational Attainment and Cardiovascular Risk in Hispanic Individuals: Findings From the Cooper Center Longitudinal Study. JAMA Cardiol. Published online December 19, 2018. doi:10.1001/jamacardio.2018.4294

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Last Updated on December 26, 2018 by Marie Benz MD FAAD