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The relationship between perceived discrimination and coronary artery obstruction
Brian J Ayotte1, Leslie R M Hausmann, Jeff Whittle
1Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, North Dartmouth, MA 02747, USA. bayotte@umassd.edu
American Heart Journal
|April 24, 2012
Summary
Perceived discrimination increases the risk of severe coronary obstruction in Black male veterans, but not White veterans. This finding highlights discrimination as a potential intervention target for cardiovascular health disparities.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular disease research
- Psychosocial factors in health
- Health disparities
Background:
- Chronic stressors, including perceived discrimination, may contribute to racial disparities in cardiovascular disease (CVD).
- Understanding the link between discrimination and CVD risk is crucial for addressing health inequities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between perceived discrimination and the risk of severe coronary obstruction.
- To examine this association while controlling for psychosocial variables and clinical factors in a veteran population.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of data from 793 male veterans (164 Black, 629 White) with positive nuclear imaging studies.
- Hierarchical logistic regression models were used, stratified by race, to assess the impact of clinical factors, psychosocial variables (optimism, religiosity, negative affect, social support), and perceived discrimination.
- Participants were risk-stratified for severe coronary obstruction based on nuclear imaging results.
Main Results:
- Perceived discrimination was significantly associated with an increased risk of severe coronary obstruction among Black veterans.
- This association remained significant after adjusting for clinical and psychosocial factors.
- No significant association was found between perceived discrimination and severe coronary obstruction among White veterans.
Conclusions:
- Perceived discrimination is linked to a higher risk of severe coronary obstruction in Black male veterans.
- Addressing perceived discrimination may be a key strategy for future interventions aimed at reducing CVD disparities.
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