Chronic conditions among Hispanic adults: Results from the 2003-2007 National Health Interview Surveys

Objectives: This study examines age-adjusted average annual estimates of selected chronic conditions among U.S. Hispanic adults ≥18 years. Methods: Data from the 2003-2007 National Health Interview Surveys, conducted by the National Center for Health Statistics, were analyzed to produce estimates for the U.S. adult civilian noninstitutionalized population. In separate questions, respondents were asked if they had ever been told by a doctor or other health professional that they had: hypertension; coronary heart disease, angina, heart attack, any other heart condition; stroke; emphysema; diabetes; cancer; arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, lupus, or fibromyalgia; or asthma (with follow-up regarding current asthma). Results: Hispanic adults (40%) were less likely to have ≥1 of the chronic conditions studied, compared with non-Hispanic white (47%) and non-Hispanic black adults (51%). Eight percent of Hispanic adults had ≥3 chronic conditions, but rates varied within Hispanic subgroups. Central or South American (5%) and Cuban adults (6%) were least likely and Puerto Rican adults (13%) were most likely to have ≥3 chronic conditions. Puerto Rican adults were also most likely to have cancer, asthma, emphysema, and hypertension, compared with other Hispanic subgroups studied. Central or South Americans had the lowest prevalence of hypertension. Among Hispanic adults with ≥3 chronic conditions, 84% had hypertension, 73% had arthritis, and 57% had heart disease. Conclusion: Although Hispanic adults as a whole may have lower prevalence of selected chronic conditions, within Hispanic subgroups, prevalence of multiple and specific chronic conditions may vary considerably. Closer examination of these subgroups can help target disease prevention strategies.