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American Public Health Association
133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition
December 10-14, 2005
Philadelphia, PA
 APHA 2005
 
4092.0: Tuesday, December 13, 2005 - Board 3

Abstract #108722

Are Hispanic HIV+ Patients Healthier than Non-Hispanic HIV+ Patients?

Barbara Estrada, MS, Impact Consultants, 5632 N. Cherokee Ridge Rd., Tucson, AZ 85750, 520-603-7074, bestrada@dakotacom.net, Antonio Estrada, PhD, Mexican American Studies & Research Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, Cesar E. Chavez Bldg Rm 208, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, and Steve Trujillo, El Rio/Special Immunology Associates, 1701 W. St. Mary's Rd., suite 160, Tucson, AZ 85745.

BACKGROUND: Research has indicated that HIV+ Hispanic/Latinos have more difficulties in terms of quality of life inclusive of depression and functional limitations than non-Hispanic Whites. Does this situation hold in the US/Mexico border region where there may be more social support networks available that mitigate against manifestations of depression and restricted activities and daily living. An assessment of depression and functional limitations experienced by HIV + Hispanic and Non-Hispanic patients was undertaken in order to elucidate and identify a potential paradox. METHODS: From 2001-2004 recruitment of 127 HIV/AIDS patients (62 Hispanics and 65 Non-Hispanic Whites) in the US/Mexico border area was accomplished via the use of promotoras (lay health educators) and various media outlets. Once enrolled in care, patients were given an assessment that included several modules – Demographics, Risk Factors, Lifestyle, Quality of Life (including depression and functional limitations), Barriers to Care, and Client Satisfaction. RESULTS: Data analysis showed significant differences between Hispanic and Non-Hispanic HIV+ patients with HIV+ Hispanics having lower levels of depression and less functional limitations in comparison to Non-Hispanic Whites. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest a paradox may exist in the US/Mexico border region between the health status of HIV+ Hispanics and HIV+ Non-Hispanic Whites. Social support networks and the proximity of cultural ties may enhance the quality of life experienced by HIV+ Hispanic patients living in the US/Mexico border region.

Learning Objectives:

  • At the end of this session, particiapnts will be able to

    Keywords: Hispanic, HIV/AIDS

    Presenting author's disclosure statement:

    I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.

    The Health of Latinos in the U.S

    The 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition (December 10-14, 2005) of APHA