Maya Ollivierre
Pronouns: she/her
Research Mentor(s): Lenette Jones
Research Mentor School/College/Department: Health Behavior and Biological Sciences / Nursing
Program:
Authors:
Session: Session 6: 3:40 pm – 4:30 pm
Poster: 12
Abstract
Background: African American (Black) women experience disproportionate rates of hypertension in the United States. Despite increased awareness of the condition and available evidence-based treatments, rates continue to rise. Additional studies are needed to assess factors related to Black women’s participation in health research studies. Objective: To evaluate the sociodemographic characteristics of Black women who participate in Brain Relationships Among Information, Neuroprocessing, and Self-Management (BRAINS) study. Methods: We analyzed data from the BRAINS study (n = 99). Inclusion criteria: self-identify as a Black woman, aged 21-64 years, diagnosed with hypertension by a healthcare professional, access to a computer or tablet, and reside in Southeastern Michigan. Descriptive analysis were conducted to assess the frequencies, means, and percentages of the sociodemographic variables. Results: Most (64%) participants earned $50,000 or more annually. Over half (57%) of participants were employed full-time. Some participants were married (39%), while 34% reported being single. Most (67%) participants stated they had no children in their household. About 34% of participants reported being diagnosed with hypertension for five years or less, which was the most common duration among BRAINS participants. Moreover, 65% of participants strongly agreed that they could discuss their concerns with a healthcare provider. Conclusion: Most of the BRAINS participants were employed, had income levels greater than 50k annually and households without children, and felt that they could engage in conversations with a healthcare provider. There is a crucial need for culturally-based research and strategies aimed at promoting participation of Black women and other diverse populations in research, in this case – seeking participation from those from other income brackets, those with children in their homes, and those who may not be comfortable engaging with providers. Studies that are thoughtful about recruitment strategies lead to dataset that are generalizable and ensure accurate representation for all.
