In a new study published in the open-access journal PLOS Medicine, researchers have found that lower socioeconomic status is linked to higher rates of death from coronary artery disease compared to higher socioeconomic status. Dr. Yachen Zhu of the Alcohol Research Group, U.S., and Dr. Charlotte Probst of the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Canada, conducted the research and reported their findings on September 17.
The study focused on coronary artery disease, also known as coronary heart disease or ischemic heart disease, which occurs when the arteries supplying the heart cannot deliver enough oxygen-rich blood due to plaque buildup. This condition is a major cause of death in the U.S. Individuals with lower socioeconomic status are at a greater risk of developing this disease, but there have been conflicting reports on whether unhealthy behaviors, such as smoking, play a significant role in the disparities observed in mortality rates.
The researchers analyzed data from 524,035 individuals aged 25 years and older, whose mortality statuses were recorded in the National Death Index and who participated in the National Health Interview Survey. Education was used as the primary indicator for socioeconomic status, and the team focused on four behavioral risk factors: smoking, alcohol use, physical inactivity, and BMI. Through their analysis, the researchers found that these four factors accounted for 74% of the differences in mortality risk from coronary artery disease in men of different socioeconomic levels and 61% in women.
Based on their findings, the researchers emphasize the importance of implementing effective public health policies and interventions that target these unhealthy behaviors, either individually or collectively. They note that these behaviors often cluster among individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, making it crucial to address them comprehensively. The researchers advocate for public health campaigns that provide tailored messaging and outreach efforts for both male and female audiences to raise awareness about heart health.
Overall, the study underscores the need to address the root causes of socioeconomic disparities in deaths from coronary artery disease in the U.S. By addressing unhealthy behaviors and promoting heart-healthy habits among individuals of all socioeconomic backgrounds, significant progress can be made in reducing mortality rates from this prevalent disease.
