African-Americans Suffer From Heart Failure More Than White Americans

A new study  published in the New England Journal of Medicine indicates that African-Americans suffer heart failure at a rate 20 times higher than white Americans. 

Heart failure is a condition in which the heart is unable to adequately pump blood to the body, often resulting in difficulty breathing, fatigue and swelling of the abdomen and/or extremities. Sufferers are often unable to work, walk easily or perform simple daily tasks.

The new study found that the heart failure rates for African-Americans in their 30s and 40s are the same as rates among white patients in their 50s and 60s. The study also found that one in 100 black men and women could develop heart failure before age 50.

The primary explanation behind the disparity across race lines is high blood pressure, or hypertension.  Other possible reasons include family history, environment and obesity.

If you or someone you love suffered injury or death because of delay in the diagnosis or treatment of heart disease, you should contact the lawyers at Berger & Lagnese for a free consultation.  The lawyers at Berger & Lagnese specialize in medical malpractice cases involving the failure to diagnose and treat medical conditions such as heart disease.