Hispanics
All across the United States, there are different classes of communities classified as minority groups spread throughout the country. However, some groups are found in specific regions where they live as one family. One such example is the Hispanics in the southwestern United States. The national government usually conducts different surveys on such groups to determine the kind of services to provide for communities such as education and health. The subject matter of this article was to highlight some of the health plights of the Hispanics in the southwestern United States. Sufficient data was outlining the various health conditions among these people. However, the overall conclusion is that there is a need for further studies to fully comprehend the health status of the Hispanic community.
Ironically, the overall health conditions of the Hispanics in this region are similar to those of the whites and not the black community of whom they share the same socioeconomic status. Evidence in this regard includes life expectancy, cancer prevalence, infant mortality, cardiovascular diseases, and other health indicators. Nonetheless, on other health status based on signs like diabetes and other infectious diseases, the Hispanics are disadvantaged compared to the whites. The following factors provide probable explanations for the observations mentioned above. They include cultural practices, selective migration, early fertility among the Hispanic women, dietary factors, genetic heritage, family support, and low-income status and high-risk environment and many others. Such factors have either a positive or a negative influence on the overall community health status.
There is a need for further studies on the relative significance of these crucial factors. Present evidence necessitates new research in the apparent paradox on the health status of the Hispanics versus the blacks and the whites. Of notable significance is more analysis of cultural factors. Several kinds of literature imply that strong familial ties and a less acculturated lifestyle provide some health protection to the Hispanics in the southwestern united states. However, there is a need for specific identification of the factors accounting for these differences. Lastly, researchers must offer exclusive focus on the distinguishing genetic, cultural and socioeconomic factors that influence the health status of the Hispanic community.