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Review
. 2002 Nov;13(4):477-503.
doi: 10.1177/104920802237532.

Socioeconomic, cultural, and behavioral factors affecting Hispanic health outcomes

Leo S Morales  1 , Marielena Lara, Raynard S Kington, Robert O Valdez, José J Escarce
Affiliations
Review

Socioeconomic, cultural, and behavioral factors affecting Hispanic health outcomes

Leo S Morales et al. J Health Care Poor Underserved. 2002 Nov.

Abstract

Evidence suggests that social and economic factors are important determinants of health. Yet, despite higher porverty rates, less education, and worse access to health care, health outcomes of many Hispanics living in the United States today are equal to, or better than, those of non-Hispanic whites. This paradox is described in the literature as the epidemiological paradox or Hispanic health paradox. In this paper, the authors selectively review data and research supporting the existence of the epidemiological paradox. They find substantial support for the existence of the epidemiological paradox, particularly among Mexican Americans. Census undercounts of Hispanics, misclassification of Hispanic deaths, and emigration of Hispanics do not fully account for the epidemiological paradox. Identifying protective factors underlying the epidemiological paradox, while improving access to care and the economic conditions among Hispanics, are important research and policy implications of this review.

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Figures

FIGURE 1
FIGURE 1
ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS AND DELETERIOUS HEALTH BEHAVIORS AMONG HISPANIC WOMEN
FIGURE 2
FIGURE 2
SMOKING RATES AMONG HISPANIC SUBGROUPS BY GENDER SOURCE
FIGURE 3
FIGURE 3
LIFE EXPECTANCY BY RACE AND HISPANIC ETHNICITY
FIGURE 4
FIGURE 4
SELF-REPORTED HEALTH STATUS AMONG FOREIGN-BORN HISPANICS BY DURATION OF RESIDENCE IN THE UNITED STATES AND EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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