We utilized a technique that examines how old a person is at a cellular level compared with their chronological age. We found that some young people were older at a cellular level than would have been expected based on their chronological age. Racial discrimination accounted for much of this variation, suggesting that such experiences were accelerating ageing. Our study shows how vital it is to think about how mental and physical health difficulties are interconnected. Some of the next steps for our work include focusing more closely on the accelerated ageing process. We also will look at resiliency and early life interventions that could possibly offset and prevent health decline among Black Americans. Due to Covid-19, the next scheduled blood sample collection has been delayed until at least spring 2021. The original children from this study will be in their mid to late 30s and might possibly be experiencing chronic illnesses at this age due, in part, to accelerated ageing. With continued research, my colleagues and I hope to identify ways to interrupt the harmful effects of racism so that Black lives matter and are able to thrive.

Source: Racism literally ages Black Americans faster, according to our 25-year study | Race | The Guardian