How does race get “under the skin”?: Inflammation, weathering, and metabolic problems in late life

► This study queries the mechanisms underlying worse metabolic problems among black than white U.S. men ages 57-85. ► Contrary to literature, older black men's social isolation, health behaviors, or obesity may not induce these disparities. ► The mechanism seems to be chronic inflammation, indexing the direct metabolic effects of cumulative stress.