Hispanic paradox

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Hispanic Paradox

The Hispanic Paradox (pronunciation: /hɪˈspænɪk ˈpærəˌdɒks/), also known as the Latino Paradox, refers to the epidemiological phenomenon where Hispanic and Latino populations in the United States tend to have health outcomes that are significantly better than those of non-Hispanic White Americans, despite having lower average income and education levels.

Etymology

The term "Hispanic Paradox" was first coined in the late 1980s by epidemiologists who were studying patterns of diseases and mortality rates among different ethnic groups in the United States. The word "paradox" is used because the observed phenomenon contradicts the expected correlation between socioeconomic status and health outcomes.

Related Terms

  • Epidemiology: The study and analysis of the distribution, patterns and determinants of health and disease conditions in defined populations.
  • Socioeconomic Status: An economic and sociological combined total measure of a person's work experience and of an individual's or family's economic and social position in relation to others.
  • Mortality Rate: A measure of the number of deaths in a particular population, scaled to the size of that population, per unit of time.

Explanation

The Hispanic Paradox is not fully understood, but several theories have been proposed to explain it. Some researchers suggest that it may be due to factors such as diet, family support, and other cultural aspects. Others propose that it may be due to a form of selection bias known as the "healthy migrant effect", where those who choose to immigrate are generally healthier than those who do not.

Despite the lower socioeconomic status of many Hispanic and Latino Americans, they have lower rates of heart disease, cancer, and other major diseases, and they tend to live longer than non-Hispanic White Americans. This phenomenon is particularly pronounced among Mexican Americans.

See Also

External links

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