Research reveals correlation between excessive use of force by law enforcement and negative impact on cardiovascular health of African American females.

A recent study conducted by North Carolina State University has revealed a concerning trend among Black women in the United States. It appears that the constant fear and anxiety surrounding police brutality and harassment is taking a toll on their heart health. Specifically, the top concern for these women is the potential interactions between their children and law enforcement. The study involved 422 Black women between the ages of 30 and 46. These women were asked a series of questions, including their concerns about future interactions with police, their personal experiences with law enforcement, and their worries about their children's future interactions. Based on their responses, the researchers divided the participants into three groups. The first group, consisting of 235 women who were also mothers, showed a high level of concern for their children's well-being and were more likely to have experienced harassment from law enforcement themselves. The second group, made up of 115 women who either had no children or were not concerned about their children's interactions with police, still reported personal experiences with harassment by law enforcement. The third and final group, made up of 72 women, had moderate concerns for their children's interactions with police but were less worried about their own. In addition to these surveys, the researchers also used ultrasound technology to measure the participants' carotid intima-media thickness, which refers to the thickness of the inner layers of the carotid artery. This measurement serves as an indicator of cardiovascular risk, with thicker inner layers indicating a higher risk of heart disease. Lead researcher Lori Hoggard noted that one key takeaway from the study was the significant role that concern for their children played in the women's overall health. Those in the second group, who had personally experienced harassment from law enforcement, showed lower carotid IMT measurements than either of the other two groups. This suggests that even those who have not directly experienced police harassment, but have a high level of concern for their children's well-being, may be at a greater risk for heart disease. The researchers also found that the results were not affected by participant age, income, or other demographic or medical factors. While the study cannot prove causation, Hoggard believes that the stress caused by constantly worrying about their children's interactions with police may be even greater than the stress from their own potential interactions with law enforcement. This study sheds light on the detrimental effects of police brutality and harassment on the health of Black women in the United States. It is a reminder of the ongoing struggles and fears faced by this community, and highlights the need for continued efforts to address and eliminate these unjust and harmful practices.