To investigate the association between adolescent exposure to racism-related structural economic and social disadvantage (RR-SESD) and epigenetic aging and inflammation-related DNA methylation (DNAm) in early midlife, emphasizing the significance of addressing health disparities by assessing variations by race.
Key Findings:
Adolescent exposure to RR-SESD is associated with accelerated epigenetic aging and inflammation-related DNAm, with specific statistical measures indicating the strength of these associations.
The impact of RR-SESD on biological aging may differ between Black and White adults, highlighting the need for tailored interventions.
Interpretation:
The findings suggest that early-life structural disadvantages significantly influence biological aging processes, highlighting the importance of addressing structural racism to mitigate health disparities, particularly in policy and community health initiatives.
Limitations:
The study is limited to non-Hispanic Black and White respondents, potentially restricting generalizability; future research should explore diverse racial and ethnic groups.
The reliance on self-reported data may introduce bias; incorporating objective measures could strengthen future studies.
Conclusion:
Understanding the role of structural inequities in early life is crucial for addressing health disparities related to aging, particularly among racially marginalized groups, emphasizing the urgency of policy changes.
by Taylor W. Hargrove, Alena Sorensen D’Alessio, Sylvie Tuder, Ariayana Harrell, Lauren Gaydosh, Audrey L. Kelly, Allison E. Aiello, Kathleen Mullan Harris, Brandt Levitt, Chantel L. Martin
