Oral

Latinos currently represent an estimated 15% of the US population (US Census Bureau, 2008), are the fastest growing racial and ethnic group and are projected to shape the future of the United States. Adequate health care for this population is a major challenge that must be resolved. A myriad of factors such as lack of/or inadequate health insurance, high levels of poverty, language barriers and poor access to health care facilities combine to deny this population a right that others enjoy. The purpose of this session is to provide evidence of programs that improve health conditions for Latinos. This session is relevant to public health leaders interested in reducing disparities; for health care leaders that are attempting to increase access to clinics, and for those that want to increase the quality of programs for persons with limited English proficiency. The session is important to leaders in academia and public health professionals who want to learn more about solving health care problems faced by Latinos.

Session Objectives: List several of the elements that make up a capacity building curriculum for Promotores and Community Health Workers. Explain the social, economic, cultural, and political factors involved in Latino teen pregnancy. Define programmatic, research, and policy strategies to prevent Latino teen pregnancy. Differentiate food insecurity and hunger. Describe the correlates of food insecurity among Latinos in North Carolina.

CE Credits: Medical (CME), Health Education (CHES), Nursing (CNE), Public Health (CPH)