Common health risk behaviors and diseases among Hispanics in the United States
Latino population constitutes a significant part of the overall US population. According to Albert Einstein College of Medicine (2009), the percentage of Hispanic individuals is rapidly growing and reaches over 15%. Therefore, the health of this ethnicity is considered crucial to the health status of the nation. Some common diseases among Hispanics are obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, HIV, AIDS, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, and others (Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 2009; Latino Connection, 2018). According to Latino Connection (2018), Latinos are 50% more likely to die of diabetes or liver disease than White Americans. Moreover, improper dieting, insufficient exercising, health care access disparities, and challenging work conditions constitute significant health risk factors for Latinos.
Socioeconomic and psychosocial conditions of Hispanics in the United States
In terms of the socioeconomic status of Hispanics, they are disproportionately exposed to poverty, insecurities due to immigration, insufficient education, unemployment, and under-insurance (Latino Connection, 2018). At the same time, cultural and ethnic particularities predetermine the quality of life and the health outcomes for Hispanics trying to assimilate with the prevalent white population. According to SoulPancake (2017), Latinos are subject to stereotypes, biased opinions, and discrimination that result in distress and reflect the overall attitude of the healthcare system toward this community.
The best practices for treating Hispanic Americans
Based on the videos, the best practices for treating Hispanics include culturally sensitive approaches. In addition, the identification of prevalent health issues helps promote a healthy lifestyle and prevent common diseases. Furthermore, improved access to health care through community facilities and the work of non-profit organizations are effective solutions (Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 2009).
How could healthcare outcomes of the Hispanic community be improved?
The healthcare outcomes might improve through enhanced research and addressing Latino health status at the level of policy-making. Better insurance programs, enhanced community projects, and culture-based interventions will be effective means for healthcare improvement. Overall, the Hispanic’s access to healthcare is diminished, and the knowledge about their tentative health issues is insufficient (Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 2009). Therefore, intensive research in this area would provide evidence for proper healthcare improvement practices in the future.
References
Albert Einstein College of Medicine. (2009). Hispanic community health study / Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL) [Video]. YouTube. Web.
Latino Connection. (2018). Latino health care animated story 1. Web.
SoulPancake. (2017). Latino | How you see me [Video]. YouTube. Web.
