Latina Women: Health and Healthcare Disparities

Abstract

This article examines disparities in health and healthcare for Latina women. It draws on existing literature and descriptive data from a study with Latinas. Mortality rates, leading causes of death, and reproductive health are well-documented. Little information is available on the health and chronic health conditions severely inflicting Latinas such as heart disease and diabetes. Despite advances regarding reproductive care and screening procedures, Latinas still experience inequities in healthcare insurance and utilization. Study findings indicate higher rates of diabetes and hypertension than Latinas nationwide and reasons for delaying seeking healthcare. Directions for future research and policy recommendations are explored.

Health Disparities: A Primer for Public Health Social Workers

“…In fact, African American mothers, who are more likely to be uninsured, were less likely to have prenatal screenings including amniocentesis and ultrasonography (Brett, Schoendorf, & Kiely, 1994), likely resulting in higher rates of cesarean delivery than in White women (Aron, Gordon, DiGiuseppe, Harper, & Rosenthal, 2000). Consequently, these improvements may not help to promote the overall downturn in prematurity rates among all women, just those who are more adequately insured (Ramos, Jurkowski, Gonzalez, & Lawrence, 2010;Alexander & Slay, 2002).…”

Timing of Immigration Effects Asset Change Among Hispanic Caregivers of Older Family Members

“…This occurs despite the fact that Hispanic caregivers are more likely to be employed outside the home while providing care than other ethnic groups (NAC and AARP Public Policy Institute 2015 ). These educational and employment obstructions, coupled with linguistic limitations and other cultural barriers, may further complicate the experience of family caregiving among the Hispanic population (Cafferty et al 2002 ; Ramos et al 2010 ; Scharlach et al 2008 ).…”

Caregiving for Older Latinos at End of Life

“…29 As a result of educational 20 and economic constraints, 30 many Latino individuals find themselves under an enormous amount of financial and emotional strain when confronted with the terminal illness of a family member, coupled with the associated caregiving demands. Currently, the median age for the Latino population is 27.4 years 5 ; therefore, it is likely that caregivers are employed women with children and are more likely to report caregiver stress and emotional distress as a result of conflicting pressures.…”