Living in disadvantaged neighborhoods over the course of a lifetime can accelerate biological aging, especially among racial and ethnic minorities who are more likely to reside in these environments. A new study finds that cumulative exposure to socioeconomic hardship at the neighborhood level directly and indirectly speeds up aging through increased psychological distress.
Using data from the REWARD Study, researchers analyzed long-term residential histories and blood-based epigenetic clocks—biomarkers that measure biological aging. They found that neighborhood disadvantage was linked to faster aging, with 10–13% of the effect mediated by psychological symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and stress.
Anxiety emerged as a particularly strong factor, especially in relation to the GrimAge and DunedinPACE aging clocks. The study’s authors emphasize that “contextual disadvantage is an important social determinant of health that operates throughout the life course.”
This research adds to growing evidence that structural inequities—often shaped by race and class—can leave lasting biological marks. Minority communities, disproportionately exposed to poverty, pollution, and limited access to mental health care, may face accelerated aging and earlier onset of age-related diseases.
The findings underscore the need for policies that address neighborhood-level inequality and expand mental health support in underserved areas. Without such interventions, the cycle of disadvantage and poor health outcomes will continue to burden communities of color.
See: “How Does Life Course Exposure to Contextual Disadvantage Accelerate Biological Aging? The Role of Psychological Symptoms” (October 22, 2025)
