Associations Between Direct and Indirect Forms of Racism Exposure and Stress-Induced Inflammatory Response and Health in Pregnancy.

ABSTRACT: Theory and research suggest chronic direct and indirect exposures to racism impact health, and stress-responsive inflammation may play a role in these paths. This study examines links between forms of racism-related stress, salivary markers of inflammation during acute psychosocial stress, and perinatal mental and physical health in a racially heterogenous sample. Pregnant people (n = 108, 27% non-white) self-reported personal and vicarious exposure to racism (racial microaggressions, online racism, overt racial/ethnic discrimination) and racial collective self-esteem, as well as affective symptoms and general physical health. Five saliva samples collected before and after the Trier Social Stress Test were assayed for pro-inflammatory cytokines and C-reactive protein. Results revealed asso

SUBMITTER: Dawson D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9640889 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature