Heart disease and stroke are the leading causes of maternal death in the U.S., or more simply put, heart disease is the No. 1 killer of new moms. Black women pay the highest price and are more than three times more likely than White women to die of cardiovascular-related pregnancy complications.
As the executive director of the Greater New Orleans division of the American Heart Association, I’m working to change this by sharing stories of survivors to raise awareness and advocate for equitable health care. We are determined to close education, resources and support gaps.
The maternal crisis is influenced by multiple factors, including increased maternal age, health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes and obesity, as well as discrimination, including bias and racism. The higher maternal mortality experienced by Black women is independent of educational attainment, income or wealth, highlighting the role of structural inequities. Therefore, a multi-faceted approach that includes prevention and treatment of underlying cardiovascular risk factors, stakeholders’ education and addressing social and structural determinants of maternal and cardiovascular risk is necessary.
As part of the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women movement and the National Collaborative for Infants & Toddlers, I urge our elected officials in Louisiana and Washington to enact heart-healthy and stroke-smart policies to help Black mothers live longer, healthier lives.
CORETTA LaGARDE
executive director, American Heart Association
New Orleans
