Discrimination Against Asian Americans and its Impact on Lifestyle Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Disease: A Scoping...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Social Epidemiology
• Health Disparities

Background:

• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality is increasing in Asian American subgroups.
• Interpersonal discrimination's impact on CVD lifestyle risk factors is understudied.
• Lifestyle factors like smoking, exercise, and sleep are critical for cardiovascular health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize existing literature on the association between interpersonal discrimination and key lifestyle risk factors (smoking, exercise, sleep) in Asian Americans.
• To identify gaps in the current research regarding discrimination and cardiovascular health in this population.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted across four major databases (PubMed, Embase, CINAHL Complete, PsycINFO).
• Hand-searching of reference lists supplemented the database search.
• Studies published before February 13, 2026, exploring the link between interpersonal discrimination and smoking, exercise, or sleep in Asian Americans were included.

Main Results:

• 1,935 studies were initially identified, with 16 ultimately meeting eligibility criteria after full-text review.
• Five studies examined discrimination and smoking, three focused on exercise, and ten investigated sleep health.
• Evidence predominantly suggests a link between discrimination and poor sleep health among Asian Americans, though many studies had limitations.

Conclusions:

• Interpersonal discrimination is associated with adverse lifestyle risk factors, notably poor sleep, contributing to CVD disparities in Asian Americans.
• Future research requires larger, subgroup-specific studies with validated measures and culturally appropriate data collection.
• Collaborative efforts among healthcare professionals, public health officials, and researchers are essential to mitigate discrimination's impact on cardiovascular health.