Discrimination Drives Smoking Habits, Hurting Heart Health

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., but some people are at greater risk based on their race, ethnicity, or sex.  To understand the connection between discrimination, smoking, and heart health, a recent study analyzed data from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis, a national study sponsored by the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI). Study authors include Robyn McClelland, professor of biostatistics at the University of Washington and co-director of the Collaborative Health Studies Coordinating Center.