Research Study: Black Consumer Attitudes on Cholesterol Treatment

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The Association of Black Cardiologists (ABC) conducted a primary research study designed to investigate attitudes among Black consumers regarding their use of dietary and/or herbal supplements as a treatment for cholesterol in place of statins.  Black U.S. residents, diagnosed with hypercholesterolemia who are using dietary and/or herbal supplements – with our without statin therapy – were the entry criteria for this study.

In the United States, high cholesterol, a major risk factor for heart disease, remains critical. While trends have shown an increase in treatment, and control of high cholesterol; racial and ethnic disparities persist, particularly among African Americans.

A majority of respondents (57%) report using dietary and/or herbal supplements instead of prescription medication. There was no difference by gender; however this differed by age significantly.  Younger respondents (30-45 years old) are significantly more likely to take supplements instead of statins while older respondents (46-70 years old) are significantly more likely to take supplements in addition to statins.  Furthermore, survey respondents believe that dietary/herbal supplements are equally (21%) or more effective (57%) than prescription statin medication for cholesterol health, study results indicate.

“These results confirm that there is a significant need for education and opportunity for improvement in lipid management in African Americans” according to Karol E. Watson, MD, PhD, FACC, Professor of Medicine/Cardiology,  Co-director, UCLA Program in Preventive Cardiology, Director, UCLA Barbra Streisand Women’s Heart Health Program.

Study respondents cited control over one’s health (76%), cost of medication (62%), and perceived health benefits (67%) as the most significant contributors for taking dietary and/or herbal supplement.

Dr. Watson will present the research results during the “Cardiology Update 2016: Management of Heart Failure in Primary Care” symposium at the 114th National Medical Association’s annual convention and scientific assembly.

This study was supported, in part, by AstraZeneca.