Heart disease is a term for several conditions that affect how well the heart works. These conditions make it harder for the heart to transport blood, oxygen, and nutrients to the rest of the body. The most common type of heart disease in the United States is coronary artery disease, where the blood supply to the heart is blocked due to a buildup of fats, cholesterol, and other substances in the arteries. For some people, the first sign of this disease is a heart attack. High blood pressure (hypertension), high cholesterol, and smoking are major risk factors for heart disease. Other health conditions and lifestyle habits can also raise the risk, such as diabetes, obesity, an unhealthy diet, not getting enough physical activity, and drinking alcohol. Eating healthy foods, staying physically active, and managing stress can help lower your risk of heart disease.
In 2024, American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) adults were 30% less likely than U.S. adults overall to have coronary heart disease.
In 2022, AI/AN people were 14% less likely than the U.S. population overall to die from major heart and blood vessel diseases.
In 2024, AI/AN adults were 16% less likely than U.S. adults overall to have high cholesterol.
Death due to major cardiovascular disease, age-adjusted rate per 100,000 population, 2022
AI/AN*
Total Population
Ratio (AI/AN* / Total)
Male
225.6
272.4
0.83
Female
161.2
182.0
0.89
Both Sexes
191.9
223.0
0.86
Source: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics. (2025). Deaths: Final data for 2022 (National Vital Statistics Report, Vol. 74, No. 4, Table 11). U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Risk Factors for Complications
Hypertension
Adults ages 18 and over who have high blood pressure (diagnosed hypertension), percentage, 2024
