Race, Ethnicity, and Gender Disparities in Acute Myocardial Infarction

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease continues to be the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States. Despite advancements in medical care, there remain persistent racial, ethnic, and gender disparity in the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of individuals with cardiovascular disease. In this review we seek to discuss differences in pathophysiology, clinical course, and risk profiles in the management and outcomes of acute myocardial infarction and related high-risk states. We also seek to highlight the demographic and psychosocial inequities that cause disparities in acute cardiovascular care.

Keywords: Acute myocardial infarction; Cardiac arrest; Cardiogenic shock; Disparities; Race; Sex.