J Natl Med Assoc
-
Parental histories were obtained for a cohort of black medical students in a longitudinal study of hypertension precursors. At follow-up, 25 to 30 years later, initial and current parental histories for hypertension were compared with other precursor characteristics as well as resulting cohort hypertension. The number of participants having no positive parental history for hypertension as parents aged declined from 55% to 24%. ⋯ Having all four risk factors increased the hypertension risk by 15 times. Parental history together with weight gain, blood pressure, and smoking provide a strong predictor of hypertension. Weight and blood pressure control, along with cessation of smoking, should be considered important factors in the clinical management of such patients.
-
Comparative Study
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in blacks and whites: mortality and morbidity.
Previous reports cite puzzling racial differences in several indicators of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). An extensive review of data from the National Center for Health Statistics and from population-based studies confirmed lower overall COPD but higher asthma mortality in blacks compared with whites, and lower chronic bronchitis and emphysema but similar or higher asthma prevalence in blacks compared with whites. ⋯ Further investigations of racial differences may enhance understanding of COPD etiology and prevention. Physicians and public health organizations should vigorously strive for smoking prevention and cessation in blacks and whites.