Studying the Effect of Stress on High Blood Pressure Among African Americans

Morehouse School of Medicine, Prevention Research Center

University of Washington, Center for Health Promotion

Topics:
Cardiovascular Health

African-American men and women have higher rates of high blood pressure and heart disease than white adults do. In addition, high blood pressure among African Americans occurs at younger ages, may be more severe, and is less likely to be managed effectively. Stress from racial discrimination, low income, and underemployment or unemployment may be factors in African Americans’ rate and severity of high blood pressure. Researchers from two Prevention Research Centers (PRCs) studied how daily stress and ways of coping with stress influence the rate of high blood pressure and risk of heart disease among African-American adults. The researchers reviewed scientific literature about the effects of stress, coping, and poverty on high blood pressure; and they conducted surveys and interviews with African-American adults. The information gathered was used to develop culturally appropriate tools to measure levels of stress among African Americans and design interventions to help them manage stress effectively, and prevent and control high blood pressure.

 

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