PS2-22: The Association of Neighborhood Deprivation, Subjective Social Status and C-reactive protein among Pregnant African American Women

Abstract

Background/Aims Chronic stress may lead to a dysfunctional inflammatory response, producing adverse health conditions such as cardiovascular disease (CVD). Increased C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of systemic inflammation, is associated with prematurity and psychosocial stress during pregnancy. Residents in disadvantaged neighborhoods and with decreased socioeconomic status (SES) have higher social strain and experience more chronic stress. However, the relationship between social strain and inflammatory markers in pregnant women is unknown. African American’s demonstrate more inflammation than other racial groups. The purpose of this study was to determine if there was an association between social strain (socioeconomic and neighborhood stress) and CRP among pregnant African American women.