The Association Between Perceived Racial Discrimination and Hypertension in a Low-Income, Racially Integrated Urban Community

We examined the association between perceived racial discrimination and hypertension among African Americans and whites who live in a low-income, racially integrated, urban community. Hypertension was defined as having a systolic blood pressure 140 mm Hg or more, a diastolic blood pressure 90 mm Hg or more, or taking antihypertensive medication(s). Perceived racial discrimination was based on self-reported responses of experiencing racial discrimination in various settings. Using modified Poisson multivariable regression models, we found no association between perceived racial discrimination and hypertension (prevalence ratio: 0.96, 95% confidence interval: 0.90-1.04). Findings suggest that social context may play a role in the relationship between perceived racial discrimination and hypertension.