HDL-C in Black Adults for ASCVD Risk Calculation

For decades, health inequities, including a disparate burden of atherosclerotic cardiovas-cular disease (ASCVD), has led to unacceptable morbidity and reduced life expectancy in non -Hispanic Black adults compared with non-Hispanic White adults.2 Recent MESA (Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis) data confirm a 34% higher ASCVD mortality and increased all-cause mortality in Black compared with White participants.3 Unfortunately, time does not equal progress: this persistent White-Black mortality gap widened with the overall COVID-19 reductions in U.S. life expectancy, dispro-portionately affecting Black and Hispanic populations.(4)

Automated summary

Health inequities have resulted in a higher burden of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and reduced life expectancy among non-Hispanic Black adults compared to non-Hispanic White adults. Recent MESA data shows a 34% higher ASCVD mortality and increased all-cause mortality in Black participants compared to White participants. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated the White-Black mortality gap and disproportionately affected Black and Hispanic populations.