Latinos are the largest ethnic group of US children, but not enough is known about their unique health issues/needs. The study goal was to review the literature on Latino child health to identify major health/policy issues. Medical and social science database searches yielded >1,000 English/Spanish citations published from 1966-2000. Puerto Rican children have the highest national asthma prevalence (11%). Latino children have the highest injury hospitalization and death rates, and compared with non-Latino whites, have 13 times more tuberculosis, up to 7 percentage points lower vaccine coverage, and greater likelihood of suboptimal health, fewer physician visits, and no regular care source. Of 22 access barriers faced by Latino children, poverty and lack of health insurance are among the most formidable: 35% live in poverty, 26-33% lack insurance and half of the impoverished are uninsured. Cultural and language issues also profoundly affect their care. Latino children have among the highest rates of obesity, diabetes, dental caries, environmental toxin exposures, illicit drug, alcohol and tobacco use, depression, suicide, and committing and suffering violent acts. Multiple health disparities affect Latino children, including less preventive screening, fewer prescriptions, less analgesia, and a lower quality of care. Health interventions tailored to Latino children have proven somewhat effective locally. In conclusion, Latino children experience disproportionate morbidity and mortality, multiple access barriers, and frequent ethnic disparities in care. Because local interventions have had limited success in addressing these issues, federal and state policy initiatives may be the only way to eliminate health inequities for all Latino children.
Learning Objectives: To gain an understanding of the major health, policy, and research issues for Latino chidren in the US.
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.