Race and Ethnicity Considerations in Patients With Coronary Artery Disease and Stroke

Notable racial and ethnic differences and disparities exist in coronary artery disease (CAD) and stroke epidemiology and outcomes despite substantial advances in these fields. Racial and ethnic minority subgroups remain underrepresented in population data and clinical trials contributing to incomplete understanding of these disparities. Differences in traditional cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension and diabetes play a role; however, disparities in care provision and process, social determinants of health including socioeconomic position, neighborhood environment, sociocultural factors, and racial discrimination within and outside of the health care system also drive racial and ethnic CAD and stroke disparities. Improved culturally congruent and competent communication about risk factors and symptoms is also needed. Opportunities to achieve improved and equitable outcomes in CAD and stroke must be identified and pursued. • Racial and or ethnic disparities persist in the care of patients with CAD and stroke. • Underrepresentation of racial and ethnic minorities among patients and investigators limits the generalizability of cardiovascular research and contributes to incomplete understanding of these disparities. • Identification of strategic opportunities to address the social and structural factors responsible for racial and ethnic disparities is imperative to achieving equitable outcomes for patients with CAD and stroke.