An assessment of acculturation and dietary pattern among jamaican immigrants in Florida

Introduction: Increased length of time spent in the US is associated with poor dietary habits among immigrants. Maintaining traditional eating habits from their country of origin is beneficial for disease prevention compared to eating habits associated with migration for many immigrant groups. We examined the role of acculturation and socio-cultural factors in predicting dietary pattern among Jamaican immigrants. Methods: A 2-stage cluster sample design was used to randomly select Jamaicans (25-64 years) in two Florida counties. Ninety-one participants were administered a health questionnaire that assessed acculturation, dietary pattern, and risk factors for CVD. Investigators hypothesized that less acculturated, lower SES, and persons living in ethnic enclaves are more likely to adhere to traditional dietary patterns. Generalized estimating equation modeling was used to examine associations. Results: Persons who were less acculturated were more likely to adhere to a traditional diet (β=0.03, p<.05). Similarly, persons with 12 or fewer years of education were more likely to adhere to a traditional diet (β=-0.56, p<.05). Results also showed divorced (β=0.32, p<.05)) and separated (β=0.12, p<.05) persons more likely to adhere to a traditional diet as were persons who migrated at older ages (β=0.02, p<0.05). Residence in an ethnic enclave was not a statistically significant predictor of dietary pattern.

Discussion: The association between acculturation and dietary pattern was consistent with that from other studies. These findings demonstrate the role of socio-cultural factors in determining dietary pattern among Jamaicans. Findings can be used to inform intervention efforts to maintain healthy traditional habits that reduce disease risk.