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A Novel Method for Involving Women of Color at High Risk for Preterm Birth in Research Priority Setting
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A Novel Method for Involving Women of Color at High Risk for Preterm Birth in Research Priority Setting

Published on: January 12, 2018

Racial discrimination and the black-white gap in adverse birth outcomes: a review

Carmen Giurgescu, Barbara L McFarlin, Jeneen Lomax

    Journal of Midwifery & Women'S Health
    |July 8, 2011
    PubMed

    Insights

    Racial discrimination is linked to adverse birth outcomes like preterm birth and low birth weight in African American women. Further research is needed to understand its role as a chronic stressor.

    Area of Science:

    • Perinatal health
    • Social determinants of health
    • Public health

    Background:

    • Racial discrimination is a significant societal issue with potential health implications.
    • Adverse birth outcomes represent a critical public health concern, particularly among minority populations.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To synthesize existing research on the association between racial discrimination and adverse birth outcomes.
    • To identify the current state of knowledge regarding this relationship in the scientific literature.

    Main Methods:

    • An integrative review of studies was performed.
    • Searches were conducted in CINAHL, MEDLINE, and PsycINFO using keywords related to birth outcomes and racial discrimination.
    • Ten studies focusing on African American women in the United States were included.

    Main Results:

    • A consistent positive relationship was observed between perceived racial discrimination and preterm birth.
    • Racial discrimination was also associated with low birth weight and very low birth weight.
    • No significant association was found between racial discrimination and gestational age at birth.

    Conclusions:

    • Racial discrimination may act as a chronic stressor impacting birth outcomes.
    • Understanding this relationship is crucial for addressing disparities in perinatal health.
    • Further research is recommended to explore the long-term effects of racial discrimination on birth outcomes.
    Abstract

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