An Integrative Review of the Current Knowledge of Cardiovascular Disease and Associated Risk Factors in the Old Order Amish

Abstract

Purpose: To review the uniqueness of the Amish culture and evaluate the published research on cardiovascular disease and associated risk factors in the Amish. Method: A computerized database search from January 1999 to January 2009 was conducted using the search terms Amish and cardiovascular. Results: The majority of published research is based on the Amish in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania; is genetically based; and did not make recommendations for health care practices in the Amish. Conclusions: Studies that focus on cardiovascular disease in the Amish outside Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, and that study cardiovascular health care practices of the Amish are needed to develop culturally specific educational interventions.