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[PD-3] The Transcendental Meditation Program and Regression of Carotid Atherosclerosis in High-Risk African Americans: Implications for Community Programs

Sanford Nidich, EdH, Center for Natural Medicine and Prevention, Maharishi University of Management, Fairfield, IA

Nidich, S.; Castillo-Richmond, A.; Schneider, R.; Rainforth, M. -Maharishi University of Management; and Cook, R.; , Myers, H. - Drew University of Medicine and Science

African Americans are at higher risk for coronary heart disease (CHD) morbidity and mortality compared to whites. This study tested the efficacy of the Transcendental Meditation (TM) program to regress carotid intima-media wall thickness (IMT), compared to a health education (HE) control group, in African Americans at high-risk for CHD. The study involved a follow-up subgroup analysis of a 7-month randomized controlled, single-blind trial conducted in South Central Los Angeles with 60 participants. Thirty-two of these participants, who had at least 2 positive risk factors for CHD (systolic BP>140 mm Hg or diastolic BP>90 mm Hg; total cholesterol>240 mg/dL or LDL-cholesterol>160 mg/dL; HDL-cholesterol<35 mg/dL; age> 45 for males or _>55 for females; current smoking) were included in the analysis. Results of ANCOVA, covarying for baseline IMT, age, and gender, indicated a significant regression in carotid IMT in the TM group (adjusted mean= -0.07 mm, 95% CI -0.19 to 0.05) compared to a progression of carotid IMT in the HE group (adjusted mean= +0.09 mm, 95% CI -0.03 to 0.24; p<.021, two-tailed). The regression of carotid IMT found through the practice of the TM program represents a substantial reduction in the risk for coronary outcomes or stroke. Due to the wide network of qualified TM teachers throughout the country, it is feasible to begin to incorporate this stress-reduction program into minority communities to help reduce the risk for cardiac events and the racial disparity in health outcomes.
Date: July 10-12, 2002

Location: Hilton Hotel & Towers, Washington, DC

Sponsor: U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services, Office of Minority Health / Office of Public Health and Science