Key result
Stress, depression, and social support were not associated with systolic blood pressure in perimenopausal African-American women, whereas age, BMI, and health status were significant predictors.
Why the study?
African-American women have disproportionate rates of hypertension that can be complicated by menopause, but stress coupled with depression and hypertension in this population has not been fully explored.
Cross-Sectional (n=184)
In menopausal African-American women, traditional factors such as age and BMI are significant predictors of systolic blood pressure, while psychosocial factors like stress and depression are not.
Age and BMI should remain the focus for SBP assessment in perimenopausal African-American women; leaves open whether psychosocial factors influence other outcomes or require longitudinal study.
African-American women have disproportionate rates of hypertension that can be further complicated as they transition through menopause. Stress, coupled with depression and hypertension in perimenopausal African-American women has not been fully explored. This study examines the associations of stress, depression, and social support on systolic blood pressure (SBP) among a sample of 184 perimenopausal African-American women. We used descriptive statistics, Pearson's correlation, and logistic regression to analyze data stratified by menopausal status (perimenopausal or menopausal) and SBP status (<130 mmHg vs. >130 mmHg). Women classified as menopausal reported higher levels of stress and depressive symptoms, and lower levels of social support. Age, body mass index (BMI), health insurance, and perceived health status were significant predictors of SBP in menopausal women. Stress, depression, and social support did not play a role in SBP. It is necessary that future research focus on reducing cardiovascular risk include addressing menopausal health.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Still et al. (2020) conducted a cross-sectional in Hypertension (n=184). Stress, depression, and social support was evaluated on Systolic blood pressure (SBP). Stress, depression, and social support were not associated with systolic blood pressure in perimenopausal African-American women, whereas age, BMI, and health status were significant predictors.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: