Abstract 4335891: Disparities in Blood Pressure Readings Among Sheltered Women Experiencing Homelessness: Insights from a Student-Run Free Clinic

Abstract

Background: Hypertension disproportionately affects marginalized populations, including women experiencing homelessness (WEH), who face barriers to healthcare and chronic disease management. Limited access to healthcare services places WEH at an increased risk for undiagnosed and uncontrolled hypertension. This study examines disparities in blood pressure levels, hypertension prevalence, and pulse pressure (PP) between WEH and age-matched women from the general population. Methods: This cross-sectional study compared blood pressure (BP) patterns between WEH attending a student-run free clinic (SRFC) in Miami, FL, and age-matched women from the 2021–2023 NHANES dataset. Hypertension was defined per AHA guidelines (SBP ≥130 mmHg or DBP ≥80 mmHg). Descriptive statistics summarized baseline characteristics. Wilcoxon rank-sum tests compared SBP, DBP, and Pulse Pressure (PP) between groups. Chi-square and Fisher’s Exact tests assessed the association between group and hypertension prevalence. Effect sizes were calculated using Cramer’s V and the Phi coefficient, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Among 110 participants (55 per group), hypertension prevalence was significantly higher in the WEH group (60% vs. 34.6%, p = 0.0075). Diastolic BP was significantly elevated in WEH (p < 0.0001), while systolic BP was not (p = 0.0812). Pulse pressure (PP) was lower in WEH (46.2 vs. 54.8 mmHg, p = 0.0035). Conclusion: WEH showed a distinct hypertension profile with elevated DBP and lower PP, suggesting stress- or volume-driven mechanisms. These findings highlight the need for targeted hypertension interventions in SRFCs, including stress reduction programs, volume control education, and longitudinal BP monitoring to improve cardiovascular health in this underserved population.