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Good health care decisions depend on good data—whether in federal health policy or patient treatment. However, the data is often incomplete, especially in defining a group that still constitutes the majority of the U.S. population: “non-Hispanic white” individuals. This broad category, often taken for granted, may obscure crucial health disparities within its diverse subgroups.
A recent study published in Demography, led by Duke sociologist Jen’nan Read and co-author Fatima Fairfax, a Duke doctoral student in sociology, highlights these hidden disparities. Analyzing data from the National Health Interview Survey (2000–2018), the researchers examined the health differences among white adults born in the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and the Former Soviet Union.
Their findings challenge common assumptions about health advantages among foreign-born whites. While immigrants generally experience better health than their U.S.-born counterparts, the study reveals that immigrants from the Former Soviet Union face significant health disadvantages, reporting higher rates of high blood pressure and other conditions. This disparity suggests that global conflicts, such as those in Ukraine and Syria, have affected the well-being of white immigrant subgroups, shaping their long-term health outcomes.
Read emphasizes that understanding these variations is crucial for addressing health disparities. “Nobody questions who’s white, but they should,” she said. “The white category contains diverse ethnic subgroups, but because we lump them all together, we miss important health vulnerabilities for millions of Americans.”
The study underscores the need for more precise racial and ethnic classifications in health data. Read argues that failing to differentiate between subgroups can lead to overlooked health risks and inadequate policy responses. “If we truly care about reducing health disparities in this country, we need to know where the disparities are. And they get hidden when people are lumped into broad categories.”
Stress-related health conditions among immigrants, particularly those fleeing conflict, further illustrate the importance of accurate data. “We see in the news what Ukrainian immigrants are leaving behind—death, destruction, years without education for their children. This has lifelong impacts on their well-being,” Read explained. “The physical consequences from stress are enormous—we know stress increases all sorts of physical health problems, including high blood pressure and cholesterol.”
The researchers stress that improving health data accuracy can lead to better health outcomes for all. “Our country is extremely diverse, and not talking about diversity doesn’t change that fact. Health inequality costs us a lot—it costs the health care system and society as a whole.”
By refining racial classifications and acknowledging the complexities within the white category, health researchers and policymakers can better identify and address disparities, ultimately leading to a healthier society.
Disclaimer: This article summarizes recent research findings and does not provide medical or legal advice. The views expressed by the researchers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of health institutions or policymakers. Readers should consult health professionals for personalized medical guidance.
