Painting by Maya Ramirez Schwarz
This week concludes Hispanic Heritage month, recognizing the contributions of Latinos in the United States and marking the anniversaries of independence for Mexico, Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua.
Latinos constitute a large and growing segment of the U.S. population – about 18 percent, almost 60 million people in 2018. The Latino population consists of diverse groups, and there are substantial variations among them in immigration patterns and nativity status due to historical differences in U.S. economic conditions, labor shortages and the political climate.
However, despite this heterogeneity much research focuses on the health of Latinos as a broad group, obscuring health differences between the groups -- and between U.S.-born and immigrant Latinos -- on a variety of health indicators. Relative to those who are foreign-born, for example, U.S.-born Latinos have higher rates of obesity, hypertension, smoking, heart disease, cancer, and psychiatric conditions.
To advance a research and practice agenda focusing on Latino health, we must emphasize the heterogeneity of the Latino population in order to better understand the mixed health profile that emerges when Latino subgroups are disaggregated.
Research is also needed on the broad social determinants of health, including economic, political, and social factors that influence immigration policies, patterns, and health. Latino groups differ widely in sociopolitical histories and reasons for migrating, and in the context of their reception in the U.S.
For instance, over the past two decades there has been a surge in anti-immigrant legislation, and a growing field of research demonstrates that experiences of discrimination among Latinos are associated with depression, anxiety, increased risk of alcohol and drug use disorders, and worse physical health.
As the Latino population in the U.S. continues to grow, it is critical to further elucidate how social forces shape their health and well-being. In particular, this work will provide a broader lens from which to view, understand, and develop programs to promote the health of all Latinos in the U.S.
Ana Abraído-Lanze, PhD
Vice Dean,
Professor of Social and Behavioral Sciences