Researchers recruited 422 Black women aged 30–46. Participants answered questions about their experiences with police, worries about future personal contact with police, and worries about how police might treat their children. The team placed women into three groups based on these answers.
The researchers measured carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) using ultrasound. IMT is the thickness of the inner layers of the carotid artery and acts as a marker of cardiovascular risk because thicker measurements suggest a higher chance of future heart problems.
The study found that concern for children’s possible police encounters was linked to thicker IMT, even when women had not reported direct harassment. The researchers controlled for age and income and said the study shows correlation, not causation.
Difficult words
- carotid intima-media thickness — thickness of inner layers of carotid artery
- ultrasound — use of sound waves to make body images
- marker — a sign that shows a health risk
- cardiovascular — relating to the heart and blood vessels
- correlation — two things change together without proof of cause
- causation — one event directly causes another event
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Why do you think worries about police could affect a person's health?
- Have you ever been worried about a family member's safety? How did that worry make you feel?
- What other questions could researchers ask to learn more about these worries?
Related articles
Virtual diet and exercise program helps people with lymphoma
A study tested a virtual diet and exercise program for people getting chemotherapy for lymphoma. The program improved symptoms, attendance was high, and participants had better strength and physical performance during treatment.
FDA approves bemotrizinol for US sunscreens
The Food and Drug Administration approved the sunscreen ingredient bemotrizinol for use in the United States. The ingredient blocks UVA and UVB rays; when it appears in products will depend on reformulation, testing and marketing by companies.
