Obesity Among Latinos

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Obesity although considered a disease there are many disparities that accompany obesity amongst the ethnic group of Latinos here in America. Obesity rates among Latinos are statistically higher and in order to address this we must look at the causes of this disease and the effects it is having on the population. Key issues that may lead to obesity are lack of health coverage, culture, socioeconomic status, and food access which I will further discuss to break down the issue. The ethnic group of Latinos is comprised of various people- Mexicans, Cubans, south or central Americans, and anyone of Spanish descent. Here in America this population is large estimating about 53 million people according to the 2012 census. Obesity measured by body mass …show more content…

As Blewett (2005) explained rural Latino populations are continuing to grow and in these populations it is more common to be uninsured than to be insured. Many factors can go into an individual or even whole family being uninsured but this issue can also greatly affect the future of an individual or family. There is a stigma around healthcare especially for immigrants regarding immigrant status, financial availability, and the availability of Spanish speaking doctors or services. Receiving preventative care is important in preventing many diseases such as obesity without routine care issues may be over looked. Latinos in rural environments or those with lower socioeconomic status may believe healthcare is not affordable and therefore not use resources available to them. If an individual believes their immigration status may be compromised using health care coverage or applying they may go without in fear of being deported or reported to authorities. Finally, a language barrier may also affect Latinos searching for healthcare, if English is not the first language they may not be offered health advice or a physician who can speak their native language making them feel embarrassed or …show more content…

Current programs have been implemented to aid in the any health epidemics our country is facing. Current programs focusing solely on healthier food options such as implementing healthier foods into WIC programs have improved healthy food intakes among those who participate in the programs such as more fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and ow fat milk. This has worked for Latino children who participate in the WIC program compared to those who do not. Other suggestions would be into education and availability of resources to educate Latino families. Education of the importance of nutrition as well as exercise can aid in the epidemic as well as create a comfortable social community amongst peers. Conquering other social issues as they may be stressors would also be necessary such as quality housing, transportation, and community to harbor a safe environment where people can access local

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