A new study to be presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2024 has uncovered a troubling link between historical redlining practices and higher rates of heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity in affected neighborhoods. The research also found that these health disparities are associated with reduced access to healthy foods in these communities. Redlining, an unjust practice that was effectively legal in the U.S. from 1933-1968, limited homeownership based on race. Although outlawed over 50 years ago, the study suggests its effects continue to impact community health outcomes today.
Lead study author Rebekah J. Walker, Ph.D., an associate professor at the University at Buffalo, explained, "We know that redlining leads to poor health outcomes, and even though redlining has been outlawed, it is still having an impact. We looked at what we can do to stop that relationship from continuing to happen." The research team examined data from more than 11,000 U.S. Census tracts across 38 states. They found that neighborhoods previously subjected to redlining were more likely to have lower access to healthy foods and higher rates of cardiovascular diseases and risk factors. Specifically, in redlined neighborhoods: An average of 11.8% of people had Type 2 diabetes; 31.9% had high blood pressure; 6% had heart disease; and 31.8% had obesity.
The study revealed both direct and indirect associations between redlining, reduced access to healthy food, and higher prevalence of these health conditions. This highlights the complex interplay between historical policies, social determinants of health, and current health outcomes. Dr. Clyde W. Yancy, former American Heart Association volunteer president, commented on the findings: "Redlining's residual impact 100 years later is disheartening. Without question, redlining has had a negative effect on not just healthy food access but also healthy living." The research underscores the importance of addressing social factors, such as access to healthy foods, as pathways through which structural racism impacts health. It suggests that interventions to improve access to nutritious food options or boost social and economic resources could help mitigate the lingering effects of outdated policies like redlining.
This study adds to a growing body of evidence linking social determinants of health to cardiovascular outcomes. The American Heart Association has previously highlighted the role of factors such as economic stability, neighborhood safety, education, and access to quality healthcare in the development of heart disease. While the observational nature of the study limits conclusions about cause and effect, it provides valuable insights into the long-term health consequences of discriminatory practices. The findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions and policies to address health disparities in communities affected by historical redlining. As the American Heart Association continues its efforts to promote equitable health outcomes, studies like this one provide crucial information to guide future initiatives. By understanding the complex relationships between historical policies, social determinants, and health outcomes, researchers and policymakers can work towards developing more effective strategies to improve cardiovascular health for all communities.
