Hispanic/Latino Populations and Cardiovascular Disease

Abstract Background: Cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death in the United States. Hispanic/Latino populations are the fastest growing minority group, with the top three subgroups being Mexican, Puerto Rican, and Cuban individuals. Objectives: The purpose of this integrative literature review was to review current literature and identify the specific risk factors related to cardiovascular disease among Mexican, Puerto Rican, and Cuban populations living in the U.S. Methods: An integrative literature review was used to achieve the purpose. Conclusion: The goal of this integrative literature review was to compare and contrast the cardiovascular risk factors for Mexican, Puerto Rican, and Cuban populations in order to contribute to a more specific cultural competence in patient care. Keywords: cardiovascular disease, Hispanic/Latinos, risk factor