Arrhythmias and Ion Channelopathies Causing Sudden Cardiac Death in
Hispanic/Latino and Indigenous Populations
Abstract
The limited literature and increasing interest in studies on cardiac
electrophysiology, explicitly focusing on cardiac ion channelopathies
and sudden cardiac death (SCD) in diverse populations, has prompted a
comprehensive examination of existing research. Our review specifically
targets Hispanic/Latino and Indigenous populations, which are often
underrepresented in healthcare studies. This review encompasses
investigations into genetic variants, epidemiology, etiologies, and
clinical risk factors associated with arrhythmias in these demographic
groups. The review explores the Hispanic paradox, a phenomenon linking
healthcare outcomes to socioeconomic factors within Hispanic communities
in the United States. Furthermore, it discusses studies exemplifying
this observation in the context of arrhythmias and ion channelopathies
in Hispanic populations. Current research also sheds light on
disparities in overall healthcare quality in Indigenous populations. The
available yet limited literature underscores the pressing need for more
extensive and comprehensive research on cardiac ion channelopathies in
Hispanic/Latino and Indigenous populations. Specifically, additional
studies are essential to fully characterize pathogenic genetic variants,
identify population-specific risk factors, and address health
disparities to enhance the detection, prevention, and management of
arrhythmias and SCD in these demographic groups.