Objectives and design of the Hispanic Community Health Study (HCHS): A Study of Latinos (SOL)

Background: Current data show that US Hispanics, the largest and most rapidly growing minority population, on average have lower coronary heart disease mortality rates, increased prevalence of obesity/diabetes, and fewer economic resources than non-Hispanics. The full impact and long-term consequences of this disparity on Hispanics remains unknown.

Study Objectives: Identify the prevalence of protective and harmful factors for diseases, disorders, and conditions in Hispanic populations and to determine the role of acculturation and other mediators in their prevalence and development. Conditions include: heart disease, stroke, asthma, chronic obstructive lung disease, sleep disorders, dental disease, hearing impairment, diabetes, kidney and liver disease, and cognitive impairment.

Study Design: Longitudinal cohort study of Hispanics in the US initiated in October 2006 by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute with co-support from 6 other Institutes/Centers of the NIH. Sixteen thousand (16,000) Hispanic/Latino men and women, ages 18-74, from all origins will be selected from San Diego, Chicago, Miami, and New York with a Coordinating Center in Chapel Hill. A comprehensive examination will be conducted and annual follow-up will identify disease events.

Conclusions: The large size, inclusion of Hispanics of diverse origins, comprehensive examination, longitudinal follow-up, and identification of disease occurrence will provide a major contribution to understanding causes of important chronic diseases and their prevention in both the Hispanic and the US population. Results may also inform and influence policy makers regarding opportunities to reduce health disparities and improve access to health care by using culturally sensitive approaches.