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Heart Health Among Native Americans: Disparities, Risks, and Solutions

   By Helen Oliff

February is the month of hearts, so we’re digging into heart health. Heart disease is a leading cause of death in the United States. But did you know that Native American communities are disproportionately affected? Read on to learn more…

According to the American Heart Association, Native Americans have a higher prevalence of cardiovascular disease (12%) than Hispanics, non-Hispanic Whites, Blacks, and Asians (1% to 8%)? And this is believed to be underreported by 21%.

Plus, Native Americans are more likely to experience heart disease at a younger age, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This is often due to a combination of genetic predisposition, socioeconomic factors, and limited access to healthcare.

Heart Month

Health Risks Among Native Americans

Despite a rich history of natural living, systemic challenges have increased health risks among Indigenous peoples. Contributing factors include:

  • High Rates of Diabetes – Type 2 diabetes is a major risk factor for heart disease and is prevalent in Tribal communities, affecting 27% of Native Elders.
  • Obesity and High Blood Pressure – Limited access to affordable, whole foods contributes to higher rates of obesity and hypertension.
  • Limited Healthcare Access – Many Native communities rely on the Indian Health Service (I.H.S.), which is chronically underfunded and understaffed.
  • Historical Trauma and Stress – Generational trauma, stress, and economic hardship fuel higher stress levels, which contribute to poor heart health.

One Native Elder from Pine Ridge lives with multiple health issues and now knows some foods act as medicine. She’s teaching her kids to be proactive, so they don’t have to go through what she’s going through. “In this community, diabetes is really prevalent. It seems like every other person has diabetes or heart issues. If you don’t eat healthy, you’re going to be sick, and that’s what’s happening to everyone on the reservation,” she said.

Ways to Align Healthcare with Native Culture

We agree that healthy diets are part of the solution, but it’s not that simple. Improving heart health in Native communities requires practitioners to become more NativeAware® and use more culturally informed approaches. Providers can better align with traditional values and practices to make a difference. Some strategies include:  

  • Revitalizing Traditional Diets: Before colonization, Indigenous diets were rich in lean proteins, vegetables, and whole grains. Encouraging and supporting a return to traditional foods can help reduce the consumption of processed foods high in sugar and unhealthy fats. Native ancestors ate locally available foods such as wild game, fish, berries, and corn.
  • Enhancing Healthcare Access and Education: Collaborating with Tribal health programs and providers can improve heart disease screenings, preventative care, and education on nutrition and exercise. More funding for the Indian Health Service can also enhance local medical care in remote reservation communities.
  • Addressing Mental Health and Stress: Holistic health includes mental and emotional well-being. Culturally specific stress-reduction methods, such as talking circles, storytelling, and reconnecting to nature, can help reduce stress and improve overall health.

We at PWNA encourage you to learn about the life-changing work we do with Tribal programs through our Health services and be part of the solution. Visit www.nativepartnership.org today to learn how and become more #NativeAware.