Racial and Ethnic Patterns in Cardiovascular Disease Risk Among Low-Income Adults in West Texas

BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death in the United States and Texas, with a disproportionately high impact on racial/ethnic minority and low-income populations. METHODS: This cross-sectional study examined electronic medical records from 201 low-income adults served by a free preventive health screening program, operating at two non-profit social service centers and one homeless shelter in Lubbock, Texas (2022-2024), to estimate the prevalence of major CVD risk factors and assess demographic disparities. RESULTS: Among 201 participants, 62.7% were Hispanic and 11.9% were Black. Nearly half (47.8%) exhibited elevated blood pressure consistent with hypertensive range, including a substantial proportion without a prior self-reported diagnosis. Obesity was observed in 46.3%, tobacco use in 41.8%, self-reported type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in 36.3%, and hypercholesterolemia in 15.4% of the sample. Black participants exhibited the highest rate of elevated blood pressure (62.5%). Significant demographic differences were found in the prevalence of T2DM and lipid disorders (p < .01). CONCLUSION: Our findings highlight a heavy burden of CVD risk among the low-income study population residing in West Texas, particularly among racial/ethnic minorities. The high rates of elevated blood pressure consistent with hypertensive range emphasize the urgent need for culturally responsive outreach, expanded screenings, and sustained chronic disease management strategies. These data can inform public health policy and targeted interventions to reduce cardiovascular disparities in West Texas and similar underserved regions.