Epigenetics and Health Inequities in Indigenous, Black, and Hispanic Communities

Health disparities persist along racial and ethnic lines, with Black infants being three times as likely to be born prematurely and with low birth weight as their White counterparts, underscoring broader patterns of racial and ethnic inequities in health outcomes. Drawing on interdisciplinary literature, this paper highlights how epigenetic processes, including DNA methylation and stress-related gene regulation, may biologically embed historical trauma, creating social, ethical, and policy implications. Case studies across Indigenous, Black, and Hispanic populations underscore disproportionately adverse outcomes across a range of conditions, including cardiometabolic disease, mental health disorders, and reduced life expectancy. While these disparities have been traditionally attributed to socioeconomic status, access to care, and lifestyle factors, the emerging field of social epigenetics offers a molecular perspective on how social and environmental conditions can influence the genome itself and contribute to generational health inequities. The objective of this research is to examine the role of epigenetic mechanisms in shaping health disparities, inherited disadvantage, and social immobility among three historically marginalized populations in North America, primarily the United States: Indigenous, Black, and Hispanic communities. It further seeks to identify gaps in the existing literature, suggest areas for future research, and explore possible policy interventions to address persistent disparities and inequities.