George A. Mensah
Eliminating Disparities in Cardiovascular Health
National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
disparities cardiovascular health among serious public health problems united states today despite remarkable declines cardiovascular mortality observed nationally last 3 decades many population subgroups defined race ethnicity gender socioeconomic status educational level geography show striking often widening disparities cardiovascular health pervasive nature disparities compelling evidence adverse impact clinical outcomes quality life well documented elimination disparities 1 2 overarching goals healthy people 2010 national public health agenda however publications provide guidance actions take review 6 strategic imperatives within framework action presented key elements framework include 10 focal areas 6 major settings within framework calls accelerated interventions eliminate disparities cardiovascular health success endeavor require innovative comprehensive interventions built foundation sound clinical public health science strategic partnerships communities communitybased organizations state local governments public private partners health nonhealth sectors essential additionally investment locallevel disparities surveillance communitybased participatory research development diverse clinical public health workforce invaluable