Neighborhood Disadvantage and Variations in Blood Pressure
- UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
- Daniel L. Bibeau, Professor (Creator)
- Mark R. Schulz, Assistant Professor (Creator)
- Institution
- The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
- Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
Abstract: Purpose: To examine the extent to which neighborhood disadvantage accounts for variation in blood pressure. Methods: Demographic, biometric, and self-reported data from 19 261 health screenings were used. Addresses of participants were geocoded and located within census block groups (n= 14 510, 75.3%). Three hierarchical linear models were formulated to identify individual and census block group risk factors for hypertension. Neighborhood-level deprivation was determined using the Townsend Deprivation Index. Results: Of the 14 510 participants, 24% had a systolic blood pressure (SBP) of = 140 mmHg, and 15% had a diastolic blood pressure (DBP) of = 90 mmHg, indicating hypertension. At the neighborhood level, significant variation in average SBP and DBP across census block groups (P < .001) was found. Model 2 suggested that deprivation accounts for some of the variability in average SBP and DBP between block groups (P < .001). After controlling for individual-level risk factors in model 3, deprivation remained a significant predictor of average SBP (P= .009). Discussion: The findings highlight the role of individual and neighborhood characteristics on blood pressure, specifically SBP. Modifying neighborhood contexts may help reduce environmental risks of hypertension. Translation to Health Education Practice: Educating officials about health risks for residents associated with neighborhood resources is essential in changing policies and reallocating resources.
Neighborhood Disadvantage and Variations in Blood Pressure
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Created on 10/24/2016
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Additional Information
- Publication
- American Journal of Health Education. 46(5) 266-273.
- Language: English
- Date: 2015
- Keywords
- blood pressure, neighborhood conditions, socioeconomic status, coronary heart disease, stroke