Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of mortality in the U.S. However, it is the number two cause of mortality for Hispanic/Latinx adults, behind cancer. This deviation exists despite a large proportion of Hispanic/Latinx adults exhibiting physiological risk factors like hyperglycemia, obesity and hypertension, and social risk factors like poverty, low levels of education and food insecurity.

Dr. Amanda McClain explores why Hispanics/Latinx are less likely to die from CVD than non-Hispanic white and Black adults. By identifying existing social, material, human and cultural resources that promote food security and healthier diets and subsequent lower CVD risk, her research will help us understand which resources can be integrated into interventions that promote CVD health among Hispanic/Latinx communities.

Dr. McClain’s research is supported by a prestigious K01 career award from the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (1K01HL150406-01).

https://ens.sdsu.edu/people/amanda-mcclain/