Journal articles: 'Hispanic American women Family relationships' – Grafiati (2024)

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This study uses a nationally representative sample ( N = 1,761) to investigate how gender differences in negative work-family spillover vary by ethnicity (Black, White, and Hispanic) and parental status. Consistent with the authors’ hypotheses, Hispanics displayed a greater gender disparity in negative family-to-work spillover and negative work-to-family spillover than Blacks and Whites, even when controlling for gender-role attitudes. The authors also found that the relationship between ethnicity and gender on work-family spillover varied by parental status. The authors propose that the observed gender and ethnicity interactions are because of gender role and acculturation differences in the work experiences of Hispanic, Black, and White women.

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AbstractBackgroundLow socioeconomic status (SES) is associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk, but its association with different markers of SES may be heterogeneous by sex and race/ethnicity.MethodsWe have examined the relationships of four SES markers (education, family income, occupation and neighborhood SES) to ideal cardiovascular health (ICH), an index formed by seven variables. A total of 6792 cohort participants from six regions in the USA: Baltimore City and Baltimore County, MD; Chicago, IL; Forsyth County, NC; Los Angeles County, CA; New York, NY; and St. Paul, MN of the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA) (52.8% women) were recruited at baseline (2000–2) and included in the present analysis.ResultsICH was classified as poor, intermediate or ideal. Level of education was significantly and inversely associated with ICH in non-Hispanic White men and women, in Chinese-American and Hispanic American men and African-American women. Family income was inversely and significantly associated with poor ICH in African-American men only.ConclusionsWe conclude that the strength of the associations between some SES markers and ICH differ between sexes and race/ethnic groups.

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This study focuses on intergenerational continuity in violent partner relationships. We investigate whether exposure to caregiver intimate partner violence (IPV) during adolescence leads to increased involvement in IPV during early adulthood (age 21-23) and adulthood (age 29-31). We also investigate whether this relationship differs by gender. Although there is theoretical and empirical support for intergenerational continuity of relationship violence, there are few prospective studies of this issue. We use data from the Rochester Youth Development Study (RYDS), a longitudinal study of the development of antisocial behavior in a community sample of 1,000 urban youth followed from age 14 to adulthood. The original sample includes 73% men and 85% African American or Hispanic youth. Measures come from a combination of interviews and official records. The Conflict Tactics Scale (CTS) is used to assess IPV and severe IPV in the youth and parent generations. Analyses controlled for child physical abuse, race/ethnicity as well as parent education, family stability, and poverty. In multivariate models, adolescent exposure to caregiver severe IPV resulted in significantly increased risk of relationship violence in early adulthood (age 21-23). Furthermore, there is an indirect effect of adolescent exposure to severe IPV on later adult involvement in IPV (age 29-31), mediated by involvement in a violent relationship in early adulthood. These results were largely invariant by gender. However, we observed a direct pathway between IPV exposure and adult IPV for women (marginally significant) suggesting that adolescent exposure to caregiver IPV may set in motion women-specific processes.

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e11553 Background: Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a recently recognized subtype of breast cancer, notable to metastasize early. It accounts for 15–20% of all breast cancers, and is more prevalent in African-American and Hispanic women, and women younger than 40 years of age. Continual decline in breast cancer deaths since 1990 has been attributed to earlier detection, better treatment including hormonal blockade in estrogen- and progesterone-receptor positive cancers, as well as the addition of Trastuzumab, a monoclonal antibody directed against the Her2/neu receptors. These hormone receptors are not found in TNBC, and therefore the traditional targets for endocrine manipulation cannot be therapeutically exploited. While lower socioeconomic status and racial predisposition to this disease have been observed, there exists a paucity of research into other demographic risk factors. We reviewed data between January 2000 to December 2005 from our tumor registry with particular attention to age, race, family history, tobacco use, and stage of presentation, comparing this subset of patients (n=39) to other records (n=303). We included only those patients in whom the status of all three receptors were recorded. Results: Comparisons were made for TNBC vs non-TNBC patients respectively as follows: mean age (59.87± yrs vs 60.09±yrs). Analysis using χ2 test (χ2=0.855) and CMH test for Linear Trend analysis (p=0.47) showed no difference in percentages in association with the 5 stages or TNBC status and no linear trend respectively. Conclusions: This data suggests that at our institution, TNBC is less prevalent (12.87%) than estimates of 15- 20% published in other studies. There was no difference in age at diagnosis (p=0.92), with black patients more likely to have TNBC (p=0.004, OR=2.75). There was no significant association between smoking status and TNBC (p=0.43). There was no significant association between a family history of cancer and TNBC (p=0.8384). When accounting for samples size, TNBC was as prevalent as non TNBC at all stages of diagnosis. These results differ from other published data and may reflect differences in statistical analysis. No significant financial relationships to disclose.

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Ethnic background and cultural roots affect how individuals think, feel, and behave. These factors have only recently begun to be considered in family therapy training and practice. Differences among groups need to be valued and integrated into family therapy practice. The authors provide an overview of ethnic and cultural issues in clinical work with African American, Hispanic, Irish, Asian Indian, and Jewish clients.

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To compare the involvement of Mexican-American and Euro-American family members in the socialization of children self-reports of their own socialization were collected from 663 university students. The sample was comprised of 109 Euro-American and 100 Mexican-American men as well as 215 Euro-American and 239 Mexican-American women. Mexican-American women included bathing them, playing with them, and befriending them among their mothers' contributions to their rearing more frequently than did non-Hispanic women. More Euro-American women than Hispanic women reported their fathers “took care of them.” Euro-American men listed disciplining them, reading to them, and helping them with homework among the activities their mothers participated in more than did Mexican-American men.

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BackgroundBoth a family history of alcoholism and migration-related factors like US v. foreign nativity increase the risk for developing alcohol use disorders in Hispanic Americans. For this study, we integrated these two lines of research to test whether the relationship between familial alcoholism and alcohol dependence changes with successive generations in the United States.MethodData were from the waves 1 and 2 National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC). Subjects self-identified Hispanic ethnicity (N = 4122; n = 1784 first, n = 1169 second, and n = 1169 third or later generation) and reported ever consuming ⩾12 drinks in a 1-year period. A family history of alcoholism was assessed in first- and second-degree relatives. Analyses predicting the number of alcohol dependence symptoms were path models.ResultsAlcohol dependence symptoms were associated with a stronger family history of alcoholism and later generational status. There was a significant interaction effect between familial alcoholism and generational status; the relationship of familial alcoholism with alcohol dependence symptoms increased significantly with successive generations in the United States, more strongly in women than men. Acculturation partially mediated the interaction effect between familial alcoholism and generational status on alcohol dependence, although not in the expected direction.ConclusionsFamilial alcoholism interacted with generational status in predicting alcohol dependence symptoms in US Hispanic drinkers. This relationship suggests that heritability for alcoholism is influenced by a higher-order environmental factor, likely characterized by a relaxing of social restrictions on drinking.

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Regular mammography screening can reduce breast cancer mortality, yet low-income African American and Hispanic women underutilize mammography screening and are often diagnosed at a later stage, resulting in increased mortality. We used qualitative research methods to identify factors influencing regular breast cancer screening among African American and Hispanic women. Predisposing factors (including fear of mastectomy and lack of knowledge), enabling factors (including cost and social support) and a reinforcing factor were identified and categorized utilizing the PRECEDE framework. The study identified factors associated with the decision to complete regular mammography screening, and examined differences between African American and Hispanic women who participated in the interviews. Future research should seek to better understand the influence of family/friends, risk perception, and fatalistic beliefs on the decision to obtain regular mammograms.

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Gary Becker's path-breaking Treatise on the Family (1981) subjected individuals' decisions about sex, marriage, childbearing, and childrearing to rational choice analysis. The American family has changed radically in recent decades; we survey these changes as well as the ongoing effort to understand partnering, parenting, and care of the elderly as results of maximizing choices made by individuals. First, we describe the recent changes in the American family: the separation of sex, marriage, and childbearing; fewer children and smaller households; converging work and education patterns for men and women; class divergence in partnering and parenting strategies; and the replacement of family functions and home production by government programs and market transactions. Second, we examine recent work in family economics that attempts to explain these changes. Third, we point out some challenging areas for further analysis and highlight issues of commitment in two primary family relationships: those between men and women, and those between parents and children. Finally, we consider the effectiveness of policies to target benefits to certain family members (for instance, children) or to promote marriage and fertility.

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This study looked at ethnic and gender differences in activities, family relationships, and feelings about aging in 128 American Indian, Anglo, and Hispanic adults over sixty. Reading, visiting, and watching television were the most popular activities for all subjects, with a number of sex and ethnic differences appearing. Most subjects reported improved relationships with their families on various dimensions after turning sixty. A number of advantages and disadvantages of aging were mentioned. Few ethnic or gender differences were found on these latter variables.

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Introduction: Health disparities in cardiovascular disease risk factors affect a burgeoning segment of the U.S. population—Mexican American (MA) women. MAs experience disparities in the prevalence of heart disease risk factors. However, there are no studies describing acute myocardial infarction (AMI) symptoms unique to this Hispanic subgroup. The aim of the study was to describe MA women’s AMI symptom experience. Methods: A qualitative descriptive design guided the study. Data were collected in semistructured interviews with eight MA women who reported having an AMI within the past 18 months. Data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Results: The overall theme was “The nature of my AMI experience.” This theme, composed of four categories, described their prodromal and AMI symptom experience: my perception of AMI, having a heart attack, AMI symptoms, and actions taken. No participants recognized prodromal or symptoms of AMI. Asphyxiatia (asphyxiating) and menos fuerza (less strength) were commonly described symptoms. Conclusion: Participants attributed both prodromal and AMI symptoms to noncardiac causes, self-managed symptoms, and delay in seeking health care. Findings suggest that community engagement through culturally tailored family-focused heart health education for MA women and their family members may improve recognition of prodromal symptoms.

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Guided by the relational cultural theory, we conducted a qualitative study to examine the relationship experiences of African American transgender women living in North Carolina. A convenience sample of 15 transgender women participated in the study. Semi-structured interviews, guided by an investigator-developed interview guide, were used to explore the personal experiences of transgender women on individual, family, and organizational levels. The findings provide a scheme for understanding the process through which transgender women’s relationships hinder or enhance their ability to connect with individuals, family, and organizations. Nurses can use these findings to better understand the connectedness that occurs or does not occur in transgender women’s relationships and provide culturally competent care to empower them to become resilient.

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Background:The purpose of this study was to compare the validity of 2 physical activity questionnaire formats—one that lists activities (Checklist questionnaire) and one that assesses overall activities (Global questionnaire) by domain.Methods:Two questionnaire formats were validated among 260 African-American and Hispanic women (age 40–70) using 3 validation standards: 1) accelerometers to validate activities of ambulation; 2) diaries to validate physical activity domains (occupation, household, exercise, yard, family, volunteer/church work, and transportation); and 3) doubly-labeled water to validate physical activity energy expenditure (DLW-PAEE).Results:The proportion of total variance explained by the Checklist questionnaire was 38.4% with diaries, 9.0% with accelerometers, and 6.4% with DLW-PAEE. The Global questionnaire explained 17.6% of the total variance with diaries and about 5% with both accelerometers and with DLW-PAEE. Overall, associations with the 3 validation standards were slightly better with the Checklist questionnaire. However, agreement with DLW-PAEE was poor with both formats and the Checklist format resulted in greater overestimation. Validity results also indicated the Checklist format was better suited to recall household, family, and transportation activities.Conclusions:Overall, the Checklist format had slightly better measurement properties than the Global format. Both questionnaire formats are better suited to rank individuals.

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Prevalence rates of childhood maltreatment among Hispanic women in the United States are presented separately for nativity status and ethnic origin subgroups, and the associations between different types of maltreatment and the development of anxiety and depressive disorders are examined. Analyses used self-report data from 1,427 Hispanic women who participated in the National Latino and Asian American Survey. Foreign-born Hispanic women compared to U.S.-born Hispanic women reported significantly lower rates of sexual assault and witnessing interpersonal violence, and a significantly higher rate of being beaten. Ethnic subgroups reported similar rates of maltreatment, with the exception of rape. Bivariate analyses were remarkably consistent in that regardless of nativity status or ethnic subgroup, each type of maltreatment experience increased the risk of psychiatric disorder. In multivariate models controlling for all types of victimization and proxies of acculturation, having been beaten and witnessing interpersonal violence remained significant predictors of both disorders, but sexual abuse increased risk of anxiety only. A significant interaction effect of family cultural conflict and witnessing violence on anxiety provided very limited support for the hypothesis that acculturation moderates the influence of maltreatment on mental health outcomes. Implications for culturally relevant prevention and intervention approaches are presented.

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The relationships among acculturation, health protective sexual communication, and HIV/AIDS risk behaviors of Hispanic women are examined. Respondents represented 14 Latin American countries, a mean age of 29.5 years, and relatively low education and income levels. A significant correlation was found between higher non-Hispanic acculturation level and higher sexual communication with new partners. Higher non-Hispanic acculturation levels were also correlated with higher number of sexual partners in the prior 12 months. The higher the score for health protective sexual communication, the higher the reported frequency of condom use with new sexual partners in the past 12 months. Given the low number of sexual partners, HIV/AIDS risk for this group of women appears to be related to not knowing whether their partners had other sexual partners and to low frequency of condom use. Implications for health education are discussed.

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Background: Active transportation (AT) increases physical activity, reducing cardiometabolic risk among non-Hispanic white adults; however, research on these linkages in racial/ethnic minority women is sparse. This study explored these associations in 327 African American and Hispanic/Latina women. Methods: This analysis used sociodemographics, self-reported AT via the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, accelerometer-measured moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA), body mass index, systolic and diastolic blood pressures, resting heart rate, and body fat percentage (BF). Unadjusted bivariate associations and associations adjusted for sociodemographic factors were examined. Results: AT users had higher levels of objective MVPA, but this was not statistically significant. AT was not associated with cardiometabolic risk factors in adjusted models (Ps > .05); however, systolic blood pressure was lower for AT users. MVPA was negatively associated with diastolic blood pressure and BF overall, body mass index and BF in African American women, and BF in Hispanic/Latina women (Ps <.05). Conclusions: MVPA was associated with improvements in body mass index, diastolic blood pressure, and BF among minority women, and these relationships may vary by race/ethnicity. Practitioners should recommend increased participation in MVPA. Future research, using longitudinal designs should investigate AT’s potential for increasing MVPA and improving cardiometabolic health along with the role of race/ethnicity in these associations.

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Abstract Background Literature assessing the effect of marital status on mortality has underrepresented, or altogether omitted Hispanics and the potential moderating effect of Hispanic ethnicity on these relationships. Given cultural and network dynamics, marital advantages in older Hispanic women may be greater than other groups given their family-focused, collectivist orientation. Purpose The purpose of this study was to understand whether older Hispanic women exhibited a more pronounced marital advantage as compared with non-Hispanic Whites. Methods We used longitudinal data from the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) Observational Study and Clinical Trials (N = 161,808) collected initially from 1993 to 1998 and followed until 2018. Our sample excluded those respondents indicating “other” as their race-ethnicity and those missing marital status and race-ethnicity variables (N = 158,814). We used Cox-proportional hazards models to assess the association between race-ethnicity, marital status, and the interactive effect of race-ethnicity and marital status on survival. Results After controlling for socioeconomic status (SES) and health controls, we found a Hispanic survival advantage when compared with non-Hispanic Whites and all other racial-ethnic groups with the exception of Asian/Pacific Islander women (all significant HRs &lt; 0.78, all ps ≤ 0.001). Hispanics had a higher rate of divorce when compared with non-Hispanic Whites. The interactive effect of race-ethnicity and marital status was not significant. Conclusions U.S. Hispanic, postmenopausal women exhibit a mortality advantage over and above marital status despite their high rates of divorce. Implications and potential explanations are discussed. Clinical Trial Registration NCT00000611.

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Abstract Objectives A common mechanism underlying premature morbidity may be accelerated biological aging as reflected by salivary telomere length (STL). This study examined the extent to which social relationships, both positive and negative, can be protective or confer risk relative to biological aging. Method Data from the Health and Retirement Study and multiple regression were used to examine cross-sectional associations between STL, self-reported social support, and negative interaction (e.g., conflict, criticism) with family in a nationally representative sample of African American and non-Hispanic White middle-aged and older adults (N = 4,080). Results Social support from family was associated with shorter STL. Negative interaction with family had no main effect on STL but interactions characterized by high social support and more frequent negative interactions were associated with longer STL. Negative interaction with family was negatively associated with STL for African Americans and Whites but the magnitude of the effect was greater for African Americans. Discussion Study findings highlight the role of social relationships in physiological deterioration among middle-aged and older adults and identify a potential mechanism whereby race is linked to accelerated biological aging. Findings highlight the importance of considering positive and negative aspects of social relationships to understand the consequences of social connections for cellular aging in diverse populations.

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Relationships among consumer demographic variables, services, and employment outcomes for 25,218 15 to 18 year old youth with learning disabilities were examined using the Rehabilitation Services Administration database from 2012. The 25,218 individuals were randomly split for cross-validation purposes into Sample One and Sample Two. A separate logistic regression was run for each sample. Variables significant for both samples included being African American, college and occupational training, and job placement. The correct classification of the logistic regression for Sample One was 67.1% and for Sample Two it was 66%. African American males had significantly lower successful employment rates than White or Hispanic males. African American females had significantly lower successful employment rates than White or Hispanic females. Mean earnings per week for White males and females combined were significantly higher than African American males and females combined. Hypotheses for the above findings include White and Hispanic youth using job placement resources at educational institutions, cultural mistrust, and rehabilitation counselors following youth’s expressed preferences. Implications for practice include engaging ethnically diverse consumers in vocational rehabilitation through an empowerment approach and viewing family involvement in transition planning as a continuum.

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Mexican American males have higher levels of total cholesterol and triglycerides, higher body mass indexes, and a higher prevalence of diabetes than do non-Hispanic White males. They are the least likely Hispanic subgroup to be insured, to have recently visited a physician, or to have preventive exams. To explore factors related to the use of preventive exams among mature men, and specifically among Mexican American men residing along the Arizona, United States/Sonora, Mexico border, information on barriers and motivating factors to male participation in preventive screening exams was collected. Interviews were conducted with mature men and women from a single border community and with clinical staff from three different border communities who deliver services to similar populations. Responses were triangulated. Common themes identified include health education/information/advertisem*nt and female/family support as motivating factors and machismo/denial/fatalism as a barrier to male health-seeking behavior.

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The present study was implemented to identify predictive relationships between family processes and the emergence of protective factors among young adults. There were 198 participants (119 women, 60%; 79 men, 40%) with a mean age of 18.29 years ( SD = .46) with predominately Hispanic/Latino ( n = 88; 44%) and Caucasian ( n = 80; 40%) ethnic identities who were enrolled at a medium-sized 4-year university in the Central Southern region of the United States. Simultaneous multiple regression analyses revealed differential predictive weight for types of family processes and emergent protective factors. Specifically, use of strengths and adaptability predicted a sense of mattering and repeated exposure to crises predicted resilience. Implications for family therapy and recommendations for further research are identified.

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This study investigated perceptions of nine people with cerebral palsy about relationships in their families, schools, and rehabilitation counseling. One participant was Hispanic, all others were Anglo-American. Audio-taped interviews were transcribed and analyzed using qualitative research methodology. Findings indicated that feelings of belonging were a major theme for all participants across the contexts of family, school, and rehabilitation counseling. Aspects of belonging within each context, implications for rehabilitation counseling service provision, and suggestions for future research are discussed.

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104 Background: The identification of pathogenic mutations in breast cancer susceptibility genes through clinical genetic testing leads to focused screening and prevention strategies for women at increased risk of cancer. However, the frequency of mutations and the risks of cancer associated with breast cancer predisposition genes has not been established for the African American population. Methods: Germline DNA samples from African American women (5,054 breast cancer cases and 4,993 age-matched unaffected controls) from 10 U.S. studies were tested for mutations in 20 established breast cancer predisposition genes using a QIAseq multiplex amplicon panel as part of the “CAnceR RIsk Estimates Related to Susceptibility” (CARRIERS) study. The frequency of mutations in each gene and associations between mutations and breast cancer risk, adjusted for study design, age, and first-degree family history of breast cancer, were evaluated. Results: The mean age at diagnosis of breast cancer cases was 54.4 years and the mean age of controls was 55.2 years. 18.2% of cases and 10.8% of controls reported a first-degree family history of breast cancer. Pathogenic mutations in any of the 20 breast cancer predisposition genes were identified in 7.6% of breast cancer cases and 2.4% of controls. In multivariable analyses, mutations in BRCA1, BRCA2, and PALB2 were associated with high risks of breast cancer (odds ratio (OR) > 5.0). Mutations in CHEK2 were associated with moderate risks of breast cancer (OR > 2.0), whereas mutations in ATM had lower clinical relevance (OR = 1.8). Mutations in BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2, and RAD51D, but not CHEK2 or ATM, were associated with increased risks of estrogen receptor negative breast cancer. Conclusions: Cancer predisposition genes confer similar risks of breast cancer in the African American population as in non-Hispanic Whites. These studies provide important insights into the risks of breast cancer associated with predisposition gene mutations in the African American population.

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Abstract Objectives The purpose of this study is to determine if Healthy Eating Index (HEI) scores significantly differ between women in varying ethnicity groups with self-reported gynecological cancer or breast cancer. Methods NHANES 2015–2016 data were examined to determine subjects and categorize them based on ethnicity group and self-reported cancer diagnoses. A total of 2602 women were identified and grouped by self-reported cancer diagnosis. Usual HEI scores were estimated over two days using the NCI method and adjusted for the following covariates: family income to poverty ratio, Body Mass Index, age, and smoking exposure. Ethnicity groups included were Mexican-American, Other Hispanic, Non-Hispanic White, Non-Hispanic Black, and Multiracial. Cancer diagnoses of breast, cervical, ovarian, and uterine were compared across ethnicity groups. Independent samples t-tests and Cohen's D were calculated. Analysis was conducted using SAS version 9.4. Results Overall, diet quality was poor among the sample. Those with cervical cancer had the highest average HEI scores (48.6 + 3.0; 95% CI: 42.1 – 55.0) while those with breast cancer had the lowest average HEI scores (41.7 + 3.6; 95% CI: 34.0 – 49.3). Within those with breast cancer, non-Hispanic white women had the highest HEI scores (43.5 + 4.0; 95%CI: 34.8, 52.1) compared to other ethnicities (Cohen's D ranged between 0.28–0.42). Hispanic women with ovarian cancer had an HEI score of 26.98 points lower than white women with ovarian cancer. Overall, ethic minority groups had lower average HEI scores when compared to Non-Hispanic White women with the same type of cancer. Conclusions In some instances Non-Hipsanic white women had higher average HEI scores; however, this was not true across all cancer types. These results suggest that there are differences in diet quality scores among various cancer types, but overall diet quality is generally poor across ethnicity groups. Funding Sources None.

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African American marriage rates have declined over the years. This qualitative study examines the ways in which African American young adult women describe their desires in potential long-term (possibly marriage) partners. The following research questions guided the study: (a) What are young adult African American women’s perceptions as it relates to long-term relationships and marriage? and (b) What qualities do African American young adult women desire in a long-term partner? A total of 35 African American young adults participated in the study. Findings for the study indicated that childhood observations of family members’ relationships, personality traits, and values had great influence in the type of partner desired. The study offers several recommendations for future research and strategies for marriage and family practices in the African American community.

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This survey study explores patterns of reproductive coercion (RC) and pregnancy avoidance (PA) among women recruited from domestic violence shelters in the southwestern United States ( N = 661). Two logistic regression models assessed the demographic, relationships, and violence characteristics associated with RC and PA. Younger, African American, and Hispanic women were more likely to experience RC. Homicide risk, sexual intimate partner violence (IPV), and religious abuse were associated with RC, and RC and homicide risk were associated with PA. We discuss implications of the associations between RC and PA and their links to religious abuse, sexual IPV, and homicide risk.

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Abstract This study uses data from National Survey of Midlife in the U.S. (MIDUS) to examine the effect of bereavement on physiological dysregulations in African American adults, with moderating effects of gender. Models were estimated using data from 210 Non-Hispanic African American respondents who participated in MIDUS 2 (M2: 2004-2005) and the biomarker data collection (2004-2009). We analyzed data from two groups, respondents who experienced the death of an individual(s) close to them, either family or friends (97 women, 40 men) and respondents who did not experience any deaths of close individuals during the same period (46 women, 27 men), controlling for age, education, marital status, prior family bereavement, number of negative life events since M2, and physical health prior to bereavement. Physiological dysregulations were assessed for 7 systems: HPA axis, glucose metabolism, lipids metabolism, sympathetic system, parasympathetic system, inflammation, and cardiovascular functioning. The results show that African American men and women who experienced bereavement were at higher risk of dysregulation of glucose metabolism (assessed by HbA1c, HOMA-IR, and fasting glucose) than the non-bereaved, even after adjusting prior diabetes diagnosis. In addition, African American women (but not men) who experienced recent bereavement were at higher risk of dysregulation of HPA axis functioning (assessed by urinary cortisol and blood DHEA-S) than their counterparts. The other physiological systems were not significantly associated with bereavement experience in African American adults. The findings suggest that bereavement has adverse impacts on health in African American adults via dysregulations in glucose metabolism and HPA axis functioning.

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Objectives: There are disparities in cardiovascular disease (CVD) among African-American women and culturally adapted interventions are needed for this population. The purpose of this study was to conduct qualitative research to inform a cultural adaptation of the evidence-based Strong Women – Healthy Hearts intervention for midlife and older African-American women. Methods: Eligible participants were African-American women age ≥ 40 years, BMI ≥ 25, and sedentary. The study guide explored perceptions of heart disease and prevention using a novel construct, 'abundant life'. Twenty-two participants attended focus groups (N=5). A directed qualitative content analysis approach was used. Results: Participants described an abundant life as lack of stress, good health, and supportive relationships. Facilitators of abundant life and cardiovascular health often overlapped, including healthy diet, exercise, positive family and community ties, and spirituality. Key barriers included family caregiving burdens and the enduring legacy of racism which contributed to stress, environmental barriers to healthy eating and physical activity, and discriminatory experiences in the healthcare system. Conclusion: Participant responses were provided within the context of their personal values and social identities, providing insights that may support adaption of behavioral interventions for this high-need population.

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One of the most important tasks faced by adolescents and young adults is the formation of romantic relationships. Little is known, however, about the developmental timing of early relational experiences. This study investigated the age at which an ethnically diverse sample of young adults (N = 683) experienced their very first date, love, serious relationship, kiss, and act of intercourse. Most had experienced each event by the end of high school, with first dates and kisses occurring at earlier ages than falling in love or intercourse. Gender and ethnic differences were found. For example, young men began dating at earlier ages than did young women. Asian American participants were less sexually and romantically experienced, and had their very first sexual experiences at an older age, than African American, Latino/Hispanic, and Caucasian/non-Hispanic White participants. Interestingly, there were no differences in first romantic love experience. Almost all men and women within each ethnic group had fallen in love at least once, typically around age 17; this suggests that romantic love is a common human life event and that it first occurs during the developmental period spanning late adolescence and early adulthood.

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Purpose This study aimed to evaluate racial/ethnic differences in lung cancer incidence and mortality in the Women’s Health Initiative Study, a longitudinal prospective cohort evaluation of postmenopausal women recruited from 40 clinical centers. Methods Lung cancer diagnoses were centrally adjudicated by pathology review. Baseline survey questionnaires collected sociodemographic and health information. Logistic regression models estimated incidence and mortality odds by race/ethnicity adjusted for age, education, calcium/vitamin D, body mass index, smoking (status, age at start, duration, and pack-years), alcohol, family history, oral contraceptive, hormones, physical activity, and diet. Results The cohort included 129,951 women—108,487 (83%) non-Hispanic white (NHW); 10,892 (8%) non-Hispanic black (NHB); 4,882 (4%) Hispanic; 3,696 (3%) Asian/Pacific Islander (API); 534 (< 1%) American Indian/Alaskan Native; and 1,994 (1%) other. In unadjusted models, Hispanics had 66% lower odds of lung cancer compared with NHW (odds ratio [OR], 0.34; 95% CI, 0.2 to 0.5), followed by API (OR, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.27 to 0.75) and NHB (OR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.59 to 0.95). In fully adjusted multivariable models, the decreased lung cancer risk for Hispanic compared with NHW women attenuated to the null (OR, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.35 to 0.99). In unadjusted models Hispanic and API women had decreased risk of death compared with NHW women (OR, 0.30 [95% CI, 0.15 to 0.62] and 0.34 [95% CI, 0.16 to 0.75, respectively); however, no racial/ethnic differences were found in risk of lung cancer death in fully adjusted models. Conclusion Differences in lung cancer incidence and mortality are associated with sociodemographic, clinical, and behavioral factors. These findings suggest modifiable exposures and behaviors may contribute to differences in incidence of and mortality by race/ethnicity for postmenopausal women. Interventions focused on these factors may reduce racial/ethnic differences in lung cancer incidence and mortality.

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The Philippine Islands experienced a long period of colonialism, from 1565 to 1946. During nearly 400 years of colonization, Philippine education was deeply influenced by the Hispanic and American education system. The educational policies of colonial governments had affected most Philipinas, including women. While the Spaniards performed a minimal education for women and bundled them in the strict framework, the Americans paid attention to provide practical career skills for women in the family and in society. From the approach based on the connection between education and colonialism, the paper will focus on the issue of educating women in the colonial administration's educational policy and its impact on life of women, on their cognitive and the re-awareness process of their roles and positions in society.

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45 Background: Little data exist regarding uptake of surgical prophylaxis in the underserved clinical setting. This study describes acceptance of surgical prophylaxis amongst BRCA mutation carriers in a primarily Hispanic (60%) and Asian (15%) medically underserved population. Methods: An IRB-approved retrospective chart review of deleterious or suspected deleterious BRCA mutations carriers extracted clinicopathologic data, surgical history, and family cancer history. Patients younger than the recommended age of prophylaxis, undergoing active therapy, or with metastatic cancer were excluded. Results: Forty-six carriers of known or suspected deleterious BRCA mutations expressed decisions regarding prophylactic bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy and/or mastectomy. Thirty nine women identified themselves as Hispanic, 32 from Mexico. Three women were Asian, 2 African American and 1 Middle Eastern. Forty-two patients were previously affected by cancer, with a mean age at first cancer diagnosis of 42. Four patients were unaffected. Thirty-two women with a previous cancer diagnosis accepted prophylaxis: 11 RRM plus RRSO, 10 RRSO only, 11 RRM only. Three unaffected women underwent RRSO only. None of the unaffected patients chose RRM only. Presence of an affected family member younger than 35 at time of cancer diagnosis correlated with uptake of prophylactic surgery (18 accepted vs. 1 declined; p=0.01). There was a trend towards acceptance of prophylaxis among women with earlier TNM stage that did not reach statistical significance. Conclusions: More than 50% of eligible BRCA mutation carriers in this medically underserved population underwent RRM, RRSO, or both. Young family members affected with cancer positively influenced acceptance of surgical prophylaxis. [Table: see text]

Abstract:

AbstractObjectiveThe purpose of the present study was to examine the prevalence of fast-food purchases for family meals and the associations with sociodemographic variables, dietary intake, home food environment, and weight status in adolescents and their parents.DesignThis study is a cross-sectional evaluation of parent interviews and adolescent surveys from Project EAT (Eating Among Teens).SubjectsSubjects included 902 middle-school and high-school adolescents (53% female, 47% male) and their parents (89% female, 11% male). The adolescent population was ethnically diverse: 29% white, 24% black, 21% Asian American, 14% Hispanic and 12% other.ResultsResults showed that parents who reported purchasing fast food for family meals at least 3 times per week were significantly more likely than parents who reported purchasing fewer fast-food family meals to report the availability of soda pop and chips in the home. Adolescents in homes with fewer than 3 fast-food family meals per week were significantly more likely than adolescents in homes with more fast-food family meals to report having vegetables and milk served with meals at home. Fast-food purchases for family meals were positively associated with the intake of fast foods and salty snack foods for both parents and adolescents; and weight status among parents. Fast-food purchases for family meals were negatively associated with parental vegetable intake.ConclusionsFast-food purchases may be helpful for busy families, but families need to be educated on the effects of fast food for family meals and how to choose healthier, convenient family meals.

Abstract:

6069 Background: Demographics, specifically race have been discussed as reasons for disparity of care in the breast cancer setting. Methods: We used a validated database with physician entered, de-identified patient data from a randomized sample of oncologists in the US. Physicians capture de-identified data on up to 20 patients per week using a clinically validated, software driven algorithm. We evaluated all female patient records with breast cancer that were receiving adjuvant chemotherapy for their disease, from January 2005 through November 2005. All data elements are required fields, allowing for a complete patient record with each entry, including race, age, stage, nodal status, hormone status, her 2 status and chemotherapy treatments. Results: During this 11 month period, 4465 adjuvant breast cancer records were received. All were included in this analysis. Of the 4465 patient records, 69%( n=3085) were Caucasian, 18% (n= 830) were African American, 9% (n=408) were Hispanic/Latino and 4% were ‘other, which included, Native American and Asian patients. The average age for Caucasian patients was 56 years; average age for African American patients was 55 years, average age for Hispanic/Latino patients 51 years, average for all other patients 55 years. 63% of the Caucasian patients had node + disease, 59% of African Americans had node + disease, 62% of Hispanic/Latinos had node + disease, and 61% of all others had node + disease. Top treatment regimens for Caucasian patients were AC followed by Taxol (dose dense), AC, AC followed by Taxotere (dose dense), ACT (Taxotere) and CMF. Top treatment regimens for African Americans were AC followed by Taxol (dose dense), AC, AC followed by Taxotere (dose dense), ACT (Taxotere) and FAC. Conclusions: In this clinically similar patient population there was no difference in adjuvant chemotherapy selected based upon race. Further evaluations of treatment selections, including, surgery, radiation and endocrine therapy by race are warranted. No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Abstract:

Purpose. This study examined breast and cervical cancer knowledge, attitudes, and screening behaviors among different Hispanic populations in the United States. Design. Data were collected from a random digit dial telephone survey of 8903 Hispanic adults from eight U.S. sites. Across sites, the average response rate was 83%. Setting. Data were collected as part of the baseline assessment in a national Hispanic cancer control and prevention intervention study. Subjects. Analysis was restricted to 2239 Hispanic women age 40 and older who were self-identified as either Central American (n = 174), Cuban (n = 279), Mexican American (n = 1550), or Puerto Rican (n = 236). Measures. A bilingual survey instrument was used to solicit information on age, education, income, health insurance coverage, language use, U.S.-born status, knowledge of screening guidelines, attitudes toward cancer, and screening participation. Differences in knowledge and attitudes across Hispanic groups were assessed by either chi-square tests or analysis of variance. Logistic regression models assessed the influence of knowledge and attitudes on screening participation. Results. The level of knowledge of guidelines ranged from 58.3% (Mexican Americans) to 71.8% (Cubans) for mammography, and from 41.1% (Puerto Ricans) to 55.6% (Cubans) for Pap smear among the different Hispanic populations. Attitudes also varied, with Mexican Americans and Puerto Ricans having more negative or fatalistic views of cancer than Cuban or Central Americans. Knowledge was significantly related to age, education, income, language preference, and recent screening history. Overall, attitudes were not predictive of mammography and Pap smear behavior. Conclusions. Factors related to mammography and Pap smear screening vary among the different Hispanic populations. Limitations include the cross-sectional nature of the study, self-reported measures of screening, and the limited assessment of attitudes. The data and diversity of Hispanic groups reinforce the position that ethno-regional characteristics should be clarified and addressed in cancer screening promotion efforts. The practical relationships among knowledge, attitudes, and cancer screening are not altogether clear and require further research.

Abstract:

1551 Background: Community involvement is critical to advance cancer education and prevention in minority communities. Researchers must be knowledgeable of the target community's basic cultural beliefs and linguistic needs. This study sought to identify the best approach for conducting community based cancer research in South Texas Hispanic communities. We report our experiences and lessons learned with participants and site recruitment and retention. Methods: We introduced a community based, culturally relevant breast and cervical cancer screening and early detection program, Esperanza y Vida, to address barriers and disparities in four border communities (urban, rural, colonia, and small border town). These areas represent the diverse South Texas Mexican American population in terms of language use, immigration status, and length of time in the US. Within these communities we recruited a grassroots community organization, faith-based health center, rural hospital district, and federally qualified health center. Results: Focus groups were conducted with women and men to assess knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about women's cancers. To successfully recruit participants, we implemented various techniques to engage the community and establish sustainable relationships. These included community health worker recruitment of community members, traditional recruitment (flyers, posters, word of mouth), key community and cultural leader support, and discussions with local groups and health organizations. We and our community partners identified and overcame investigator/community barriers (lack of community knowledge, community integration into the research process, community understanding of research methods, reluctance to develop innovative approaches). Consequently, participants are eager to remain with the program and are individually and collectively mobilizing others to create a sustainable and durable program. Conclusions: 1. Cultural leader engagement worked best for participant recruitment in the small border town and colonia settings, while key community leader engagement was most effective in the small city urban and rural settings. 2. Research/community partners must identify and discuss project barriers regardless of the fear of creating discordance to reach solutions. No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Abstract:

To examine the applicability of Contextual Family Therapy to non-western populations, a measure of the theory's central constructs of Trust/Justice, Loyalty, and Entitlement (the Relational Ethics Scale), was administered to a sample of 50 Iranian and 51 American college students studying in the same U.S. schools. The Iranian students reported significantly more vertical constructs (Familial) Trust/Justice and Entitlement, while the American students reported more horizontal (Closest Friend) Trust/Justice and Loyalty constructs in relationships. Finally, the women (25 of each nationality) in the sample, regardless of nationality, reported significantly greater Loyalty in their horizontal relationships than did men.

Abstract:

1503 Background: The TC model, a breast cancer (BC) risk assessment tool based on family cancer history, reproductive and lifestyle factors is used to guide BC screening and prevention. TC was developed and validated largely in non-Hispanic White (NHW) women. We evaluated the calibration and discrimination of TC version 7.02 among racially/ethnically diverse post-menopausal women enrolled in the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) clinical trials or observational study. Methods: WHI enrolled post-menopausal women from 1993-1998 and followed them prospectively for BC incidence. We included women aged ≤80 years at enrollment with no prior BC or mastectomy and with data required for TC, including weight, height, ages at menarche, first birth and menopause, menopausal hormone therapy use and family history of breast or ovarian cancer in first or second-degree relatives. Calibration was assessed by the ratio of observed BC cases to the number expected by TC (O/E), with expected cases calculated as the sum of cumulative hazards. We tested for differential discrimination by race/ethnicity (NHW, African American, Hispanic, Asian/Pacific Islander, Native American, other) using Cox regression. Time to BC was modeled using age, race/ethnicity, TC estimate (transformed by log of relative lifetime risk), and a term for interaction between race/ethnicity and TC estimate. Results: During the follow-up period (median 18.9 years, maximum 23.4 years), 6,836 new BC cases were diagnosed among 91,893 women. TC was well-calibrated overall (O/E 0.95) in NHW and African Americans, but over-estimated risk for Hispanics (O/E 0.75, Table). Results suggested good calibration for Asian/Pacific Islanders and Native Americans, but sample sizes were small. Discrimination did not differ significantly by race/ethnicity (two-sided p-value for interaction = 0.33). Conclusions: TC provided similar risk discrimination among post-menopausal women of different racial/ethnic groups over nearly 20 years of follow-up; however, it overestimated risk for Hispanics. Future studies in diverse populations are warranted, with need for a more accurate breast cancer risk assessment tool for Hispanics. [Table: see text]

Abstract:

Introduction: Fear has been described as potentially important in affecting breast cancer screening completion. Limited information is available on the prevalence and determinants of fear among Mexican American women. This study describes perceived breast cancer fear and its association with personal characteristics and screening behavior among Mexican American women. Methods: This is a secondary analysis of data collected during the implementation of the Breast Cancer Education, Screening and NavigaTion program among eligible uninsured women in two Texas border counties. Participants completed a 26-item survey to assess eligibility, risk status, prior screening, and breast cancer fear. Descriptive statistics and multivariable analyses were used to determine associations between the fear score, personal characteristics, and mammography screening. Results: In all, 1916 of 2012 eligible women completed the study. The mean age was 57.3 years, 99.2% were Hispanic, and 88% were born in Mexico; 15% had a family history of breast cancer and 14% had never had a mammogram. The mean breast cancer fear score was 25.5 (standard deviation: 10.52; range: 8-40); 54.0 % (95% confidence interval: 52.1%-56.7%) had a high fear level. In multivariable analyses, better health status ( P < .001), older age ( P = .039), birth in the United States ( P = .020), and having a regular doctor ( P = .056) were associated with lower fear scores. There was no association between breast cancer fear and mammography screening. Conclusion: Breast cancer fear is high and varies by personal characteristics and health status among uninsured Mexican American border-residing women due for screening, but is not associated with screening behavior. Further research is needed to clarify the effect of interventions designed to help reduce breast cancer fear among these women, including educational interventions to reduce breast cancer fear.

Abstract:

10002 Background: BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations in the general population are rare. Women with these mutations have a significantly increased risk of invasive breast and ovarian cancer (65–85% and 15–65% cumulative lifetime risk, respectively). Variants of unknown significance (VUS), which are of uncertain clinical importance, account for up to 50% of all identified BRCA1 and BRCA2 sequence alterations1. Methods: Pooled data from all patients presenting to Fox Chase Cancer Center for genetic counseling was examined. Patients underwent genetic testing after detailed genetic counseling. Clinical data, including gender, ethnic background, and personal history of cancer, and total number of patients tested were collected. Results: A total of 1,765 women and 236 men underwent genetic testing. The distribution of ethnicity was: <1% Asian, 2.7% African American, <1% Hispanic, 2.4% other or of more than one ethnicity, 83% White, and 11% unknown. Mutations of BRCA1 and BRCA2 were seen in 13% of the women and 2.7% of the men. VUS were seen in 6.2% of the women and .15% of the men. Of the women positive for a VUS, 2.4% were Asian, 18.1% were African American, 5.5% were Hispanic, 4.7% were more than one ethnicity, 66.9% were White, and 2.4% were Unknown ethnicity. Only .15% of the men tested were positive for a VUS, all of whom were White. Of the 51 African American women tested, 45.1% were positive for a VUS while only 5.5% of the 1,503 White women tested were positive (p<0.0001). Of the females testing positive for a VUS, a personal history of breast cancer was seen in 66.7% of Asians, 78.3% of African Americans, 100% of Hispanics, 83.3% of those more than one race, 61% of Whites, and none of the people of unknown ethnic origin. One of three men testing positive for a VUS reported a history of breast cancer. Conclusions: Identification of VUS occurred disproportionately in African Americans, occurring ten times more often in African American women than White women in our study. Studies to improve classification of VUS as deleterious or neutral are needed to enhance the utility of genetic testing for women at risk, particularly those of African American ethnicity. 1Goldman, DE et al. Am. J. Hum. Genet., 2004. No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Abstract:

Ethnicity has been examined as a putative moderator between parents’ use of corporal punishment and children’s externalizing behaviors. Yet, the reasons for this potential ethnic-level moderator have not been fully examined. The primary objective of this study was to examine whether the effect of corporal punishment on aggression is ethnic-specific using major racial groups inside and outside the U.S. samples and how the mean levels of cohesion in family relationships as found in different ethnic groups moderate the association between mothers’ use of corporal punishment and children’s aggression. A total of 729 mothers who had children aged 7 to 13 years were sampled from five ethnic groups (i.e., European American, African American, Hispanic American, Korean, and Chinese). Several hypotheses were tested to examine the moderating effect of ethnic-level, family cohesion on the relation of corporal punishment to children’s aggression. As expected, the mean level of family cohesion was significantly different across ethnicities. Consistent results across parallel multilevel and fixed effect models showed that high corporal punishment was associated with more aggression in all ethnicities, but there was a significant variation in the association across ethnicities, and the variation was explained by ethnic-level family cohesion. There were weaker associations between corporal punishment and child aggression among ethnic groups with high family cohesion and stronger associations among ethnic groups with low family cohesion. Ethnic/cultural variation in this study emphasizes the importance of understanding family environment of diverse ethnic groups when evaluating the influence of corporal punishment on child behavior in different ethnic/cultural contexts.

Abstract:

Five-year absolute breast cancer risk prediction models are required to comply with national guidelines regarding risk reduction regimens. Models including the Gail model are under-utilized in the general population for various reasons, including difficulty in accurately completing some clinical fields. The purpose of this study was to determine if a streamlined risk model could be designed without substantial loss in performance. Only the clinical risk factors that were easily answered by women will be retained and combined with an objective validated polygenic risk score (PRS) to ultimately improve overall compliance with professional recommendations. We first undertook a review of a series of 2,339 Caucasian, African American and Hispanic women from the USA who underwent clinical testing. We first used deidentified test request forms to identify the clinical risk factors that were best answered by women in a clinical setting and then compared the 5-year risks for the full model and the streamlined model in this clinical series. We used OPERA analysis on previously published case-control data from 11,924 Gail model samples to determine clinical risk factors to include in a streamlined model: first degree family history and age that could then be combined with the PRS. Next, to ensure that the addition of PRS to the streamlined model was indeed beneficial, we compared risk stratification using the Streamlined model with and without PRS for the existing case-control datasets comprising 1,313 cases and 10,611 controls of African-American (n = 7421), Caucasian (n = 1155) and Hispanic (n = 3348) women, using the area under the curve to determine model performance. The improvement in risk discrimination from adding the PRS risk score to the Streamlined model was 52%, 46% and 62% for African-American, Caucasian and Hispanic women, respectively, based on changes in log OPERA. There was no statistically significant difference in mean risk scores between the Gail model plus risk PRS compared to the Streamlined model plus PRS. This study demonstrates that validated PRS can be used to streamline a clinical test for primary care practice without diminishing test performance. Importantly, by eliminating risk factors that women find hard to recall or that require obtaining medical records, this model may facilitate increased clinical adoption of 5-year risk breast cancer risk prediction test in keeping with national standards and guidelines for breast cancer risk reduction.

Abstract:

Parents, health professionals, and communities are integral in the development of nutrition behaviors that reduce children’s risk for high body mass index (BMI) and chronic disease. The aim of this study was to conduct formative evaluations with key health informants and parents to understand the specific strategies that families use at mealtimes to promote their family’s health, along with the barriers they face in attending current nutrition education programming. Focus groups (in English and Spanish) were conducted with parents (n = 22; 63.64% Black/African American, 13.64% Black but not African American, 18.18% Hispanic/Latinx) whose household was located in a community where 50% of residents’ gross income was ≤185% of the federal poverty level. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six key informants with expertise in family health and nutrition. Inductive thematic analysis was used to identify themes across interviews. Six general themes emerged from the interviews including perceptions of health, relationships, health behaviors, facilitators, barriers, and desired changes. Across the six themes, participants responded with suggestions for community-based health promotion programs such as incorporating a broader definition of health to better address the individual and systemic barriers that perpetuate health inequities and make healthy eating difficult. Participants identified stress reduction, health literacy, and cooking knowledge as areas of interest for future programming.

Abstract:

This study focuses on the process of paradoxical autonomy and survival in the heroin careers of Mexican American women. We explore how gender roles among Mexican American female heroin users influence the emergence of a paradoxical autonomy. Five key subprocesses of this autonomy were identified from 14 life history narratives: sustaining employment, working the welfare system, illegal activities, emotional aloofness, and loss of family and children. Dependency on drugs did not lead simply to the reproduction of traditional gender dependency but, paradoxically, seemed to contribute to a new type of gender autonomy. This autonomy did not necessarily make the survival less arduous, only more independent from gendered responsibilities associated with men and often with family and children. We discuss how this paradoxical autonomy is not acquired without ambiguity by some of these women, who place a value on maintaining relationships with men and family. Our study makes a contribution to a better understanding of the diverse processes by which Mexican American female heroin users struggle to survive. Although this struggle leads to a paradoxical autonomy from their traditional gender roles, it does little to change other barriers to self-development originating from poverty, ethnic discrimination, and the severity of their drug addiction.

Abstract:

This study combines multiple-hierarchy stratification and life course perspectives to address two research questions critical to understanding U.S. young adult health. First, to what extent are racial-ethnic inequalities in body mass index (BMI) gendered and/or classed? Second, do racial-ethnic, gender, and socioeconomic inequalities in BMI widen or persist between adolescence and early adulthood? Using data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1997 cohort and growth curve models, results suggest that among white, black, and Hispanic American men and women ages 13 to 31, racial-ethnic inequality in BMI is greatest among women. Black women experience the highest adolescent BMI and the greatest increases in BMI with age. Furthermore, socioeconomic resources are less protective against weight gain for blacks and Hispanics, with the nature of these relationships varying by gender. Findings present a more nuanced picture of health inequality that renders visible the disproportionate burden of poor health experienced by marginalized groups.

Abstract:

Abstract We extend our ongoing investigations of the health effects of activity effort among Mexican Americans (MA) with mobility limitations, specifically those with osteoarthritis (OA) (Harrison, 2009). Our previous research linked activity effort with co-morbidity and social participation in women with mobility limitations, finding significant variations between Non-Hispanic White and MA with physical disabilities. This bio-behavioral study takes the next step by examining the relationships between inflammatory measures (TNF-alpha & CRP), Mexican American-specific self-management behaviors (MA-SM), and activity effort (AE) in a sample of MA men and women. Over 5 months, 62 men and women, age 40 to 83, provided survey responses, blood, and saliva for analysis. After ensuring reliability of measures, we used Pearson correlations to provide initial associations. Findings indicated a significant negative correlation between AE and TNF-alpha (-.376, 0.005), which linked behaviors to inflammatory response; and between MA-SM and AE (-.254, 0.05), which linked the self-management to the behavior. These findings provide support for the biological impact of perceived activity effort on inflammation, as well as the positive effects that Mexican American specific self-management activities might have on health.

Abstract:

Socioeconomic position, racial/ethnic minority status, and other characteristics of the macro-environment may be important moderators of genetic influence on a wide array of psychosocial outcomes. Designed to maximize representation of low socioeconomic status families and racial/ethnic minorities, the Texas Twin Project is an ongoing study of school-age twins (preschool through 12th grade) enrolled in public schools in the Austin, Texas and Houston, Texas metropolitan areas. School rosters are used to identify twin families from a target population with sizable populations of African American (18%), Hispanic/Latino (48%), and non-Hispanic White (27%) children and adolescents, over half of whom meet US guidelines for classification as economically disadvantaged. Initial efforts have focused on a large-scale, family-based survey study involving both parent and child reports of personality, psychopathology, physical health, academic interests, parent–child relationships, and aspects of the home environment. In addition, the Texas Twin Project is the basis for an in-laboratory study of adolescent decision-making, delinquency, and substance use. Future directions include geographic expansion of the sample to the entire state of Texas (with a population of over 25 million) and genotyping of participating twins.

Abstract:

Abstract Technical training plays a significant role in job retention, advancement and increased remuneration potential. Bilingual content has been shown to improve Hispanics understanding of the subject matter and English skills. Family income is a major stabilization or destabilization force in families. We hypothesized that by providing a series of three bilingual training sessions to Hispanic nursery workers related to American culture/life skills (LS) and/or horticulture skills (HS) that could potentially lead to job advancement opportunities, we could improve workers' self-esteem, work motivation and family-relations. There were three main objectives to this study: 1) to assess the validity of a Spanish translated version of The Index of Family Relations (IFR) and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSE) to evaluate family adjustment problems and self-esteem, respectively, when administered to 97 adult Hispanic nursery employees in seven Ohio nurseries in 2005 and 2006; 2) to determine if nurseries differed in their training needs; and, 3) to define which type of training LS or HS (without LS) could improve family adjustment and/or self-esteem. Ninety seven (43% female, 57% male) of 150 employees originally contacted (35%), completed all three trainings and both pre-and post-testing, which were requirements for inclusion in the analyses. The 35% attrition rate (26% with males, 8% with females, averaged over 7 nurseries) indicates the difficulties in offering even a free, on-farm training program for Hispanic nursery employees. The results of the Chronbach's alpha for the IFR and RSE were 0.8 and 0.68 before and 0.86 and 0.7 after the training, respectively, indicating that the IFR and RSE (&gt; 0.6 required validity) tests were valid and marginally valid, respectively, for this audience. Differences in RSE (p &lt; 0.0078) and IFR (p &lt; 0.0625) scores were detected using before and after scores across nurseries with non-opposing or identical distributions. The results indicate that self-esteem and to a lesser extent family relations can be improved by providing nursery need specific training and LS training having the greatest effect across nurseries. At one nursery IFR scores above 30 were observed with only LS lowering scores to non-critical. At some sites basic LS trainings seemed critical before successful HS training discharge. This study seems to identify problem employers and could be fundamental in improving employer/worker relationships within the nursery industry.