Abstract P1031: Impact of Psychosocial and Socioeconomic Stress on Metabolic Health and Body Mass Phenotypes: Insights from the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos

Abstract

Background: Chronic psychosocial stress and low socioeconomic status (SES) are linked to adverse health outcomes, including cardiometabolic diseases. This study investigates how these stressors impact metabolic health and body mass (MHBM) phenotypes in Hispanic/Latino adults. Objective: To assess the associations between chronic stress, SES, and MHBM phenotypes in Hispanic/Latino adults. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using data from the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL) Sociocultural Ancillary Study (SCAS) (N=4,712, mean age 45.3±10.4 years, 52% female). Chronic stress was measured via the Chronic Burden Scale, SES was evaluated by education and income, and MHBM was assessed using BMI, waist circumference, blood pressure, lipid profiles, and glucose. Multivariable polytomous logistic regression models were used to assess associations between chronic stress, SES, and MHBM phenotypes. Results: Metabolically unhealthy phenotypes were prevalent (40% MUOB; 31% MUOW), while healthier phenotypes (MHNW, MHOW, MHOB) represented smaller proportions (4-7%). Table 1 shows that chronic stress was significantly associated with increased odds of MHOB (OR=1.19, 95% CI: 1.01–1.40) and MUOB (OR=1.19, 95% CI: 1.06–1.34); however, losing significance after adjustment. Low SES compared with high SES was significantly associated with higher odds of MUOB in both unadjusted (OR=2.37, 95% CI: 1.46–3.87) and adjusted models (aOR=2.37, 95% CI: 1.46–3.87). Low SES was also significantly associated with MUNW (OR=2.15, 95% CI: 1.33–3.50) and MHOW (OR=2.14, 95% CI: 1.38–3.32) in unadjusted models but not in adjusted models. Moderate SES compared to high SES was not significantly associated with any phenotypes in either model. Conclusion: This study highlights the lasting impact of chronic stress and low SES on metabolic health in Hispanic/Latino adults. Interventions targeting stress reduction and social risk may help prevent and manage metabolic disorders in this population.