Hispanics are the largest racial and ethnic group. Today, there are approximately 57 million living in the U.S.
Health risks associated with Hispanics vary by Hispanic subgroups, place of birth and economic status. Foreign born Hispanics are 60 percent less likely to develop cancer, high blood pressure and heart disease but more likely to develop high cholesterol.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Vital Signs, on average Hispanics are or have:
-50 percent more likely to die from diabetes or liver disease
-24 percent more poorly controlled high blood pressure
-23 percent more obese
-28 percent less colorectal screening
– three times more likely to be uninsured
Because Hispanics are 15 years younger than whites on average, addressing these health issues today is very important. Heart disease and cancer alone account for two out of five deaths among Hispanics.
To combat these trends, the federal government has set up the Affordable Care Act to insure low income patients. Government officials are also working to improve existing community health services and immediate care stations. Hispanic representation in health surveillance data is also being monitored more closely.
Doctors may also help by providing interpreters to break language barriers and by engaging community health workers. Community health workers can then use resources to educate patients.
“Four out of 10 Hispanics die of heart disease or cancer,” says Tom Frieden, MD, MPH., CDC Director. “By not smoking and staying physically active, such as walking briskly for 30 minutes a day, Hispanics can reduce their risk for these chronic diseases and others such as diabetes.”
