Racial Differences in Educational Polygenic Scores and Physical Limitations in Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Catt Wade, Williams Micah, Latham-Mintus Kenzie
Primary Institution: Indiana University School of Medicine
Hypothesis
The disparity in predictive capacity of educational polygenic scores is a result of structural barriers to educational attainment by race and/or racial inequities in data collection.
Conclusion
Educational polygenic scores are less useful for predicting physical limitations in older adults of African ancestry compared to those of European ancestry.
Supporting Evidence
- In the European ancestry sample, educational polygenic scores were significantly associated with physical limitations.
- After adjusting for socioeconomic status and health risk factors, educational polygenic scores were no longer associated with physical limitations in the European sample.
- In the African ancestry sample, educational polygenic scores were not associated with physical limitations.
- Observed educational attainment was a robust predictor of physical limitations in both samples.
Takeaway
This study found that educational scores can help predict physical problems in older people, but they work differently for different races.
Methodology
The study compared educational polygenic scores and physical limitations among older adults with European and African ancestry.
Potential Biases
Potential biases in data collection related to race may affect the findings.
Limitations
The study may not account for all socioeconomic and health factors affecting physical limitations.
Participant Demographics
Older adults with European or African ancestry.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website