Use of the Internet for health information by African-Americans with modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease

The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency of Internet use among African-Americans at risk of cardiovascular disease and to determine the feasibility of developing Web-based, culturally relevant health information programs to reduce cardiovascular disease in the African American faith community. A cross-sectional survey was used to investigate the association of Internet use with the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) among members of African Methodist Episcopal churches in South Carolina. A telephone survey including questions on demographic factors, medical history, diet, and exercise was administered to a sample of 208 adult church members. A preventable CVD risk factor was defined as having any of the following: hypertension, obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, cigarette use, and not participating in moderate physical activity. A logistic regression determined the relationship of having a preventable CVD risk factor with Internet use while controlling for potential confounding variables. Among respondents, 47% used the Internet with most (65%) using it for 1 month or less. Most (87%) have at least one preventable CVD risk factor. Both higher education and younger age were significantly associated with Internet use. Results of the logistic regression indicate that individuals with a cardiovascular risk factor were not significantly less likely to use the Internet when controlling for age and education. Use of the Internet has potential to reach large populations, however, more work needs to be done to increase access to the Internet by older African-Americans at greatest risk of CVD before this approach can be effective.