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: Describe the importance of conducting HIV prevention research on bisexual Latino men. Discuss the role of socio-cultural factors (workforce positioning and ideologies of masculinity) that influence HIV risk among Latino men. Identify sources of social and environmental isolation and marginalization among Latinas. Compare factors leading to social and environmental marginalization among Latinas in the South Carolina Midlands and Texas Lower Rio Grande Valley communities. Describe the experience of Latino day laborers parents in caring for the health of their children.

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