Heart Disease Statistics in Kentucky

In this article, we provide an in-depth analysis of heart disease statistics in Kentucky focusing on death rates, demographics, hypertension, and cholesterol. 

Our goal is to provide updated information to help individuals, researchers, and policymakers make informed decisions and raise awareness about heart disease in Kentucky.

Death Rate Due to Heart Disease in Kentucky

In 2021, 10,250 people in Kentucky died of heart disease.

Death Rate per 100,000 Population

• 204.5 in 100,000 people in Kentucky died of heart disease in 2020

Death Rate from 2015-2021

Kentucky's death rate due to heart disease has decreased from 198.8 in 2014 to 176.4 in 2019, but has slightly increased to 181.1 in 2021.

Demographics of Heart Disease Deaths in Kentucky

• In Kentucky, men are more likely to die of heart disease than women.
• 262.5 in every 100,000 people in Kentucky who died from heart disease in 2020 were men.
• In the same year, 156.8 in 100,000 people in Kentucky who died due to heart disease were women.
• The number of male deaths due to heart disease per 100,000 people in Kentucky is higher than the number of female deaths.

Heart Disease Deaths by Ethnicity

The data shows that heart disease is a significant health issue in Kentucky, with higher rates among black and white populations. The lower rate among Hispanic and Asian/Pacific Islander populations may indicate a need for further research into potential protective factors.

Cardiovascular Disease Rates in Kentucky

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is an umbrella term for various conditions that may affect your heart and/or blood vessels.

• 10.20% of adults in Kentucky were diagnosed with cardiovascular disease in 2021.

Adults Diagnosed with Cardiovascular Disease by Sex

• 11.40% of Kentucky men said their doctor told them they had cardiovascular disease in 2021.
• 9.10% of Kentucky women report being told by their doctor they had cardiovascular disease in the same year.

Hypertension Rates in Kentucky

Hypertension is a condition in which your blood pressure is consistently elevated and measures about 140/90 mmHg or higher.

High blood pressure forces blood against your artery walls. It increases your risk for cardiovascular disease.

Adults Diagnosed with Hypertension

• 42.90% of all adults in Kentucky were diagnosed with high blood pressure or hypertension in 2021.

High Cholesterol Rates in Kentucky

High cholesterol or hypercholesterolemia is when your total cholesterol and/or low-density lipoproteins (LDL) levels are too high.

It can cause fat buildup within your arteries, which limits blood flow to the heart and puts you at risk for cardiovascular disease.

Adults Diagnosed with High Cholesterol

• 39.80% of all adults in Kentucky were diagnosed with elevated cholesterol levels or hypercholesterolemia.

Cholesterol Check in the Past 5 Years

• 88.00% of Kentucky adults have taken a cholesterol test in the last five years.

Conclusion

As heart disease remains a leading cause of death in Kentucky and across the nation, being aware of the statistics and trends can help in making informed decisions about healthcare, lifestyle, and prevention strategies.

By understanding the current state of heart disease, we can work together to reduce its impact on individuals, families, and communities in Kentucky.