This research examined why South Asian minorities experience disproportionately high hospitalization rates due to coronary heart disease (CHD) — despite sometimes seeking care less urgently than white populations — and developed a community-facing knowledge product to promote awareness and prevention.
Research Topic & Problem
Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the most prevalent cause of illness and mortality worldwide. While studies have shown racial disparities in CHD incidence, South Asian minorities remain understudied. This project investigated whether South Asians — regardless of gender — have a greater incidence than the white population, and explored what genetic, lifestyle, and systemic factors drive higher hospitalization rates.
Key Findings
- South Asian minorities have a higher risk of developing CHD and experiencing higher hospitalization rates compared to other ethnic groups — with 8.93% of a South Asian cohort experiencing a CHD outcome during a 10-year follow-up period
- South Asians are more likely to carry the APOE4 allele and 9p21 region genetic variants, increasing cardiovascular risk; they also have a more prevalent APOE4 genotype with greater blood lipid levels and lower innate immune indicators
- South Asians are more prone to diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia — all major CHD risk factors — significantly influenced by lifestyle variables
- South Asians had lower hospitalization rates than white populations, suggesting they may not seek treatment for CHD as quickly — a critical health equity concern
- Exercise, dietary improvements, and stress reduction can meaningfully reduce CHD risk; medication adherence is essential for effective cardiac disease management in this population
Knowledge Product — Community Infographic
A community-facing infographic was developed targeting South Asian minorities, their healthcare providers, caregivers, and the general public. The infographic covered:
- What causes higher CHD rates in the South Asian population (genetic, lifestyle, and systemic factors)
- Prevention and management strategies — regular doctor visits, diet, exercise, stress management, and medication adherence
- Key statistics: South Asians are 60–70% more likely to develop heart disease; 37% of South Asians face increased risk due to high-fat diets
- Actionable guidance to encourage individuals to seek treatment proactively and reduce CHD burden in the community
Public Health Significance
Raising consciousness about the elevated risk of CHD among South Asian communities — and providing culturally tailored, accessible health information — is critical for motivating individuals to seek timely care, improving health literacy, and reducing cardiovascular disparities in this underserved population.