EsCentral

EsCentral is a focus group based study that ascertains stress levels and identifies race-related stress and prevalent stressors for low-income Black expectant and postpartum women in the  Cleveland area. Data are collected through discussion, self-questionnaires and hair sampling.

Our recent study findings revealed that for low income Black expectant and postpartum women in Cleveland prevalent stressors include lack of social support, lack of financial resources, and relational stress. These women also evidenced significantly higher means of cortisol (stress hormone) than their White counterparts. These findings are alarming as high cortisol levels are indicative of chronic stress and associated with depression, prematurity, obesity, and chronic pain.

Our results indicated a need for a trauma based intervention that impacts both the mother and child. Thus, we have developed a multi-level intervention that incorporates a trauma intervention for the mothers, positive parenting training for mothers and children and a music intervention for the preschool children. Our multi-level intervention will begin implementation this upcoming September.

Study data include group discussions on stress and life experiences, cortisol, and hair care practices.