Mathew Brothers, Ph.D.
Associate Professor & Associate Chair of Graduate Programs in Exercise Science
The University of Texas at Arlington
“Vascular Function in Populations with Elevated Cardiovascular Disease Risk: Examining the Role of Psychosocial Stress Exposure and Physiological Mechanisms”.
Non-Hispanic Black (BL) females have among the greatest risk for the development of various cardiovascular diseases (CVD) relative to any other ethnic population. For example, the rate of hypertension in BL women above the age of 20 is ~46% and the prevalence of all types of CVD in BL women is approximately ~48% and approximately 540,000 BL women die from CVD in the United States each year. This population also suffers from the greatest rates of cognitive dysfunction and Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) – conditions which are among the fastest growing causes of morbidity and mortality in the US. BL individuals are approximately two-times more likely to develop these conditions. More alarming, the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease is expected to double by 2060 with a more rapid increase in the BL (and Hispanic) population. Furthermore, it is well-documented that health and socioeconomic disparities as well as discrimination/racism contribute to an increased risk for ADRD among BL individuals. Our laboratory is investigating the relationship between mechanisms associated with increased risk/prevalence of CVD and ADRD and other neurocognitive conditions in BL women. Specifically, we utilize novel approaches to assess alterations in cerebral and peripheral vascular function/health. Furthermore, we analyze the relationship of these various indices of vascular health with experiences associated with early life adversity, structural racism and other negative attributes associated with Social Determinants of Health (SDOH).
Friday, April 14, 2023, 11:00AM-12:00PM, LIB-110
University of North Texas Health Science Center
Fort Worth, Texas