Heart Disease Statistics in West Virginia

In this article, we provide an in-depth analysis of heart disease statistics in West Virginia 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 West Virginia.

Death Rate Due to Heart Disease in West Virginia

In 2021, 4,820 people in West Virginia died of heart disease.

Death Rate per 100,000 Population

• 197.8 in 100,000 people in West Virginia died of heart disease in 2020

Death Rate from 2015-2021

West Virginia's death rate due to heart disease has decreased from 195.1 in 2014 to 175 in 2019, but has slightly increased to 184.7 in 2021.

Demographics of Heart Disease Deaths in West Virginia

• In West Virginia, men are more likely to die of heart disease than women.
• 251.8 in every 100,000 people in West Virginia who died from heart disease in 2020 were men.
• In the same year, 152.4 in 100,000 people in West Virginia who died due to heart disease were women.
• The number of male deaths due to heart disease per 100,000 people in West Virginia is higher than the number of female deaths.

Heart Disease Deaths by Ethnicity

The data suggests that heart disease is a significant health concern for both white and black populations in West Virginia. However, more information is needed about the impact of heart disease on other ethnic groups in the state.

Cardiovascular Disease Rates in West Virginia

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

• 11.60% of adults in West Virginia were diagnosed with cardiovascular disease in 2021.

Adults Diagnosed with Cardiovascular Disease by Sex

• 13.60% of West Virginia men said their doctor told them they had cardiovascular disease in 2021.
• 9.90% of West Virginia women report being told by their doctor they had cardiovascular disease in the same year.

Hypertension Rates in West Virginia

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

• 45.50% of all adults in West Virginia were diagnosed with high blood pressure or hypertension in 2021.

High Cholesterol Rates in West Virginia

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

• 42.80% of all adults in West Virginia were diagnosed with elevated cholesterol levels or hypercholesterolemia.

Cholesterol Check in the Past 5 Years

• 91.00% of West Virginia adults have taken a cholesterol test in the last five years.

Conclusion

As heart disease remains a leading cause of death in West Virginia 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 West Virginia.