Cardiac disease is the leading cause of death and disability among African American (AA) women in the U.S. The incidence and prevalence of cardiac risk factors in AA women including hypertension and diabetes are disproportionate compared to the rest of the population. There is little information on the occurrence of signs and symptoms warning of cardiac disease in this group. The purpose of this study was to explore the perceptions of AA women regarding their experience of symptoms and knowledge of risk factors for cardiac disease. This descriptive study used focus groups to capture insights and knowledge. Seven group sessions were conducted and 31 AA women participated. Focus group discussion related to perceptions of risk, knowledge of cardiac risk factors and experience with signs and symptoms. Audio tapes of group discussions were transcribed verbatim. The participants were from low income housing in an urban community and ranged in age from 29-73 years. Screening prior to focus groups revealed that women experienced a range of cardiac type symptoms e.g. indigestion, shortness of breath, chest pain, heart palpitations and ankle swelling and all had at least two cardiac risk factors. Analysis was done with Ethnograph (v5.08). Data reveals that AA women sampled are concerned regarding their cardiac risk, and have some knowledge of risk reduction. Misinformation and fear of the healthcare system contribute to poor self care. Women were often discouraged from reporting or pursuing health problems by health care system constraints. Lack of easy access to healthcare and inadequate information from providers place these women at increased risk for cardiac disease. The findings of this study can be used to facilitate improved understanding of underserved women at risk and to inform nurses regarding the needs of this population.
Session #1186 - Occupational & Community Health
The 29th Annual MNRS Research Conference (April 1-4, 2005)