Health - Social Characteristics Of Minority Populations That Affect Health

The demographic profiles of non-Hispanic African-Americans, Hispanics, Asians, Pacific Islanders, Native Americans, and Alaska Natives differ considerably from those of the nonminority population. Because a high percentage of minorities live in urban areas, they are exposed to a greater number of environmental hazards, including pollution, traffic hazards, substandard and/or overcrowded housing, and crime. Occupational risks are also greater for minorities because a greater percentage of them are employed in potentially dangerous jobs. In addition, the amount of stress in changing cultural environments and the lack of resources for solving stressful situations can play a critical role in the mental health of minority groups.

Differences exist within each minority group concerning the number and status of native-born versus foreign-born persons, age at time of immigration, and how fully group members have assimilated into American society. Moreover, dietary patterns are different among the various minority groups and vary according to how thoroughly minorities have adopted nonminority eating patterns.