Health, United States Spotlight: Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Heart Disease

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary related to heart disease, its risk factors, and dietary recommendations, based on the provided lecture notes.

Heart disease

The leading cause of death in the United States, with varying risk levels across different racial and ethnic groups.

Racial and ethnic disparities

Differences in health outcomes and access to healthcare among various racial and ethnic groups.

Hypertension

A clinical risk factor for heart disease characterized by consistently elevated blood pressure.

Atherosclerosis

A condition in which fatty deposits build up in the arteries, potentially leading to heart disease and stroke.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD)

A range of conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels, including coronary artery disease.

Lipoproteins

Particles made of fat and proteins that transport lipids in the bloodstream.

LDL cholesterol

Low-density lipoprotein, often referred to as 'bad cholesterol,' which can contribute to atherosclerosis.

HDL cholesterol

High-density lipoprotein, known as 'good cholesterol,' which helps to transport cholesterol away from arteries.

Total cholesterol level

A measure of the overall amount of cholesterol in the blood, with a healthy level being less than 200 mg/dL.

Dietary fat

A risk factor for chronic diseases, with types of fat influencing health outcomes.

Trans fats

Unhealthy fats that can raise LDL cholesterol levels and are associated with increased risk of heart disease.

Omega-3 fatty acids

A type of polyunsaturated fat beneficial for heart health.

Fiber-rich diet

A diet that includes a variety of whole foods high in dietary fiber, beneficial for heart health.

Aerobic exercise

Physical activity that improves the body's use of oxygen, recommended for managing blood lipids.