UCLA Launches Heart Health Program for South Asians

Categories: College University AthleticsCollege/University NewsEducation

Families participating in free heart health screenings and consultations at UCLA's program for South Asians.

News Summary

UCLA has introduced a groundbreaking heart health program specifically for South Asians in Southern California, addressing their heightened risk of cardiovascular disease. Spearheaded by Dr. Ravi Dave, the initiative focuses on education, prevention, and outreach to combat health disparities in this community. With unique health challenges, high blood pressure screening and consultations will be offered at community locations. The program aims to create a more informed and health-conscious South Asian community to combat heart disease effectively.

Los Angeles – UCLA has officially launched the first heart health program in Southern California specifically designed for South Asians, a community facing significantly higher risks of cardiovascular disease. Research indicates that individuals of South Asian descent are up to four times more likely to develop heart disease compared to the general population. This groundbreaking initiative is spearheaded by Dr. Ravi Dave, an interventional cardiologist at UCLA, and aims to combat this urgent healthcare crisis.

The elevated risk of cardiovascular disease among South Asians is a pressing concern, as this demographic often experiences the medical issues at a younger age and with more severe complications. Angiogram studies reveal that South Asian patients frequently have diffusely blocked and smaller arteries, which significantly contributes to their vulnerability to heart-related issues. Alarmingly, South Asians account for over half of heart disease cases worldwide, even though they make up roughly a quarter of the global population.

Despite their relative educational and financial success, the health risks associated with this community are frequently overlooked. Contributing factors that exacerbate their cardiovascular risk include high consumption of fried foods, an abundance of carbohydrates in their diet, sedentary lifestyle patterns, and certain genetic predispositions. The “Thrifty Gene” hypothesis suggests that genetic traits evolved in ancestors who adapted to food scarcity may continue to negatively impact health in modern contexts.

A particularly concerning aspect of cardiovascular health in the South Asian community is that individuals commonly have normal Body Mass Index (BMI) readings but may still possess dangerously high levels of belly fat, indicating potential for heart disease. The UCLA program aims to raise awareness about these unique health challenges and prevent heart disease, particularly among younger generations who may not recognize their risk.

To address these issues, UCLA will conduct outreach over the next six months at ten locations, which will include temples and community centers frequented by South Asians. During these outreach events, participants will have access to free blood pressure screenings, blood tests, and the opportunity to consult with healthcare professionals both in person and online.

The overarching goal of UCLA’s heart health program is to serve the community through education and prevention, rather than solely increasing patient volume at the university’s medical facilities. Community members will be able to obtain second opinions from the program, as well as have their existing laboratory work reviewed by specialists. This is intended to aid individuals in better understanding their heart health and taking proactive measures to reduce their risks.

For those interested in participating or seeking assistance through the new heart health program, individuals can request appointments by calling 424-413-2279. This initiative not only represents a pivotal step in addressing heart health disparities among South Asians but also aims to foster a more informed and health-conscious community.