In 2006, awareness of heart disease as the leading cause of death among women reached 57%, significantly higher than in prior surveys (p<0.001), though racial and ethnic disparities persisted.
Cross-Sectional (n=1,005)
Has women's awareness of heart disease and stroke changed over time, and do racial and ethnic disparities exist?
Although overall awareness of heart disease as the leading cause of death in women has increased, significant racial and ethnic disparities persist, highlighting the need for targeted educational efforts.
p-value: p=<0.001
BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to evaluate trends in women's awareness, knowledge, and perceptions related to cardiovascular disease (CVD) since 1997, when the American Heart Association initiated a national campaign for women. METHODS AND RESULTS: A nationally representative sample of 1,005 women identified through random digit dialing (mean age 50 years, 71% white) was surveyed in 2006, and results were compared with results of similar surveys conducted in 2003, 2000, and 1997. Awareness, knowledge, and perceptions related to CVD were evaluated using a standardized interviewer-assisted questionnaire. In 2006, awareness of heart disease as the leading cause of death among women was 57%; significantly higher than in prior surveys (p or = 50%) reported confusion related to basic CVD prevention strategies. CONCLUSIONS: CVD awareness has increased significantly among women since 1997, yet the racial/ethnic gap in awareness has not narrowed. Educational efforts to increase heart disease and stroke awareness should be targeted to racial/ethnic minorities, especially Hispanics. Methods to reinforce basic CVD prevention strategies are needed.
Christian et al. (Mon,) conducted a cross-sectional in Cardiovascular disease awareness (n=1,005). Survey year 2006 vs. Prior surveys (1997, 2000, 2003) was evaluated on Awareness of heart disease as the leading cause of death among women (p=<0.001). In 2006, awareness of heart disease as the leading cause of death among women reached 57%, significantly higher than in prior surveys (p<0.001), though racial and ethnic disparities persisted.
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