The influence of being Black on the American nervous system

In a groundbreaking study led by Dr. David R. Williams at Harvard University, the process of accelerated epigenetic aging has been identified as a potential pathway linking racial discrimination and poorer health outcomes in Black individuals.

The research found that discriminatory racism is linked to accelerated biological aging among Black Americans, with greater exposure to racial discrimination being a key factor underlying this acceleration. This suggests that reducing exposure to racism should be paramount in protecting the health of Black people.

The study sheds light on the neurological processes at play, revealing that racial discrimination becomes a chronic stressor for many Black Americans due to the brain's continuous engagement and connectivity of areas associated with stress and emotion. This connectivity pattern provides neurobiological support for the idea that racial discrimination remains psychologically "alive" and affects the aging of the body.

One such connection, between the left locus coeruleus and the precuneus, is linked to accelerated epigenetic aging. Sustained activation of these systems over time can harm them, potentially accelerating the aging process and the earlier onset of age-related health conditions.

Chronic mental representations of racial discrimination can also show up in the body by activating the endocrine, cardiovascular, and immune systems. This activation is associated with poorer health outcomes, such as higher risks of cardiovascular disease, inflammation, and poorer immune function.

The study's findings underscore the importance of addressing racial discrimination in order to improve the health outcomes of Black Americans. Programs addressing implicit bias, such as those mandated in California and Massachusetts for health care providers, are one form of prevention against the harmful effects of racism.

However, recent actions such as President Trump's executive orders ending diversity, equity, and inclusion policies and programs in the federal government threaten progress in addressing racism. These actions could potentially worsen health disparities and the health outcomes of Black Americans.

In a personal account, a writer recounts an encounter with two police officers in a New York City train station, who suspected him of illegally selling MetroCard swipes. Despite studying his pass and eventually returning it, indicating he was not involved in the suspected activity, the encounter left the writer feeling profiled and questioning if he looked like a criminal. This experience, while not directly related to the study, serves as a stark reminder of the daily stressors that many Black Americans face due to racial discrimination.

In conclusion, the study provides compelling evidence that racial discrimination is linked to accelerated aging at a cellular level and poorer health outcomes in Black Americans. Addressing and reducing exposure to racism is crucial in protecting the health of Black people and reducing health disparities.