Redlining's Lingering Impact: Increased Kidney Disease and Heart Failure in Affected Communities

Redlining, a historical housing discrimination practice, continues to have lasting effects on the cardiovascular health of U.S. veterans. Research using data from the Home Owners' Loan Corporation (HOLC) found that veterans living in formerly redlined neighborhoods had higher rates of cardiovascular risk factors and were more likely to be diagnosed with chronic diseases. These neighborhoods also had worse air quality and higher noise levels, which have been linked to adverse health outcomes. The study highlights the importance of considering neighborhood environments when assessing cardiovascular risk and calls for further research to inform policies addressing health disparities in historically marginalized communities.