There are striking differences in the cardiovascular risk profiles of four ethnic groups - white, Chinese, South Asian and black - living in Ontario

The researchers found that the Chinese population had the lowest overall prevalence of heart disease (3.2%) and stroke (0.6%) while South Asians had the highest prevalence (5.2% and 1.7%). Despite having the least desirable cardiovascular risk profile, the black population had a relatively low prevalence of heart disease (3.4%). Smoking and obesity were more common in the white population while the South Asian and black populations had the highest levels of diabetes and hypertension. The researchers conclude that there may be a need to develop ethnically tailored strategies for preventing cardiovascular risk factors in Canada.