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Problem drinking and depression are common following sexual assault. The current study applied a coping motives model of drinking and examined the association between rape experiences and problem drinking serially mediated by depression symptoms and coping-depression drinking motives among Hispanic college women. A total of 330 college women were classified into a single rape experience (SGL) group (n = 44), a multiple rape experiences (MLT) group (n = 70), and a no sexual assault experience group (n = 221). Participants completed self-report measures online. Serial mediation analyses with multi-categorical predictors found that significantly increased alcohol consumptions in rape survivors compared to individuals with no sexual assault experience were largely explained by the serially connected underlying mechanisms of depression symptoms and coping-depression drinking motives. The prevalence rates of rape experiences in this Hispanic female sample are alarming, suggesting Hispanic college women as a particularly vulnerable group for rape. The current results contribute to a greater understanding of the effects of rape experiences on behavioral and emotional outcomes among young Hispanic women who have been underrepresented in sexual victimization research. The findings emphasize the importance of assessing depression symptoms and coping-depression drinking motives in Hispanic rape survivors to reduce risks for hazardous drinking behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hispanic women who experience intimate partner violence (IPV) face unique disparities. They have poorer health outcomes and are less likely to seek help than their non-Hispanic counterparts. When women remain in relationships where IPV occurs and refuse to disclose or seek treatment, they may resort to self-silencing, which can also worsen health outcomes. The purpose of this study was to develop a theory that explains how self-silencing evolves among Hispanic women who experience IPV. Participants were recruited from two research studies focused on Hispanic women's health, and from snowball sampling, which involved referrals by previously registered participants. Data were collected via Zoom® and included individual interviews. A total of 25 women participated in this study. Analysis followed constructive grounded theory levels of analysis described by Charmaz and constant comparative methods described by Glaser and Strauss. A grounded theory entitled Bearing (Aguantando) With Intimate Partner Violence emerged from the data. The theory explains the main strategy Hispanic women use to deal with violence while remaining in a relationship where IPV occurs. The theory is constructed of four categories with subcategories. The results of this study provide an initial framework to understand the self-silencing process among Hispanic women who experience IPV. In addition, this study identifies different levels of interventions that can be useful for researchers and healthcare providers to promote Hispanic women's ability to become empowered, use their voices, and seek help. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The U.S. Public Health Service and the Institute of Medicine recommend that all women capable of becoming pregnant consume 400 μg of folic acid daily to help prevent neural tube defects (NTDs). Hispanic women are at higher risk of having babies with NTDs than non-Hispanic White women. This study assessed multivitamin (MV) use, a main source of folic acid, among Hispanic women of reproductive age using a survey of solely U.S. Hispanic adults. Materials and Methods: MV use was assessed as part of Porter Novelli's Estilos survey, fielded annually through the largest online U.S. Hispanic panel, Offerwise's QueOpinas. During the study period of 2013–2022, 9,999 surveys were completed; selection was weighted to match the U.S. Census American Community Survey proportions. Log-binomial regression models were applied to estimate MV use trends by age groups, acculturation levels, and pregnancy intention. Results: Among 3,700 Hispanic women of reproductive age, overall no MV use increased from 39.3% in 2013 to 54.7% in 2022 (p for trend <0.0001), especially among Hispanic women aged 18–34 years and those classified as acculturated. Among women planning to get pregnant, daily MV use was 31.1% in 2013 compared with 18.7% in 2020–2022 (p = 0.04). Conclusions: Given the increase in no MV use among Hispanic women of reproductive age, targeted interventions may help reach at-risk groups for NTDs prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Latinas are disproportionately affected by low physical activity (PA) levels and related health conditions (e.g., diabetes, obesity). Few Latinas in the U.S. (17%) meet the National PA Guidelines for both aerobic PA and muscle-strengthening activity (MSA), yet, research to date in this population has focused almost exclusively on aerobic PA. Performing regular MSA is linked with numerous health improvements and reduced mortality; thus, may be key to addressing health disparities in this community. This study examined perspectives on engaging in MSA among Latinas enrolled in two aerobic PA RCTs. Methods: Brief quantitative surveys were conducted to assess interest in MSA among Latinas (N = 81), along with 19 follow-up in-depth semi-structured interviews on knowledge, barriers, and facilitators for engaging in regular MSA. Interview transcripts were analyzed by two independent bilingual researchers using a directed content analysis approach. Results: Eighty-one Latinas (18–65 years) completed the survey. Most (91%) expressed interest in learning more about MSA and 60% reported not knowing how to do MSA as a substantial MSA barrier. Interview results indicated Latinas were aware of health benefits of MSA and motivated to engage in MSA but reported barriers (e.g., perception that MSA is for men, a taboo topic, and lack of knowledge on how to do MSA). Conclusion: This study contributes to a critical gap in PA research among Latinas. Findings will inform future culturally appropriate MSA interventions in this at-risk population. Addressing MSA and aerobic PA together in future interventions will provide a more comprehensive approach to reducing PA-related health disparities in Latinas than aerobic PA alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Latinas continue to be disproportionately affected by HIV in the United States. Effective interventions to address HIV-related disparities among Latinas are available; however, they have not achieved widespread dissemination due to implementation challenges for real-world settings. A culturally tailored intervention that increases access to HIV prevention is urgently needed. The objective of this study was to develop a culturally tailored telenovela (i.e., a soap opera) to promote HIV prevention behaviors (condom use; HIV testing; and pre-exposure prophylaxis awareness, access, and use) among Latinas. The study was conducted in community organizations throughout South Florida. A total of 44 Spanish-speaking Latinas, 18–35 years old, and sexually active with a man in the past 6 months participated in the study. The final product was an HIV prevention telenovela that incorporated Latinas' ideas and feedback and was produced as four 10-minute filmed episodes. This study aimed to develop innovative approaches to reduce HIV-related disparities for Latinas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pregnant Hispanic women are at increased risk for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in part due to greater risk of childhood maltreatment, intimate partner violence (IPV), and pregnancy-related vulnerabilities. However, PTSD, is a highly heterogenous diagnosis with numerous presentations. Individual PTSD symptoms may be differentially associated with specific types of maltreatment, IPV. Determining how IPV exposure across the lifespan is associated with specific symptoms of PTSD in pregnant Hispanic women is necessary to develop group-relevant models of this disorder and targeted interventions. The present study examined a network model of PTSD symptoms, childhood maltreatment, and adulthood IPV in a sample of pregnant Hispanic women (N = 198). Childhood emotional abuse and adulthood psychological distress had the highest bridge centrality. These types of exposures were most strongly associated with social isolation. Childhood emotional abuse was associated with more individual PTSD symptoms than any IPV type. These findings suggest that associations between PTSD symptoms and different types of IPV exposure vary. In addition, robust associations between childhood emotional abuse and PTSD symptoms suggest that this domain may be particularly important for the clinical assessment and intervention for pregnant women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nicotine dependence (ND) is an understudied public health problem among Hispanic women experiencing physical intimate partner violence (PIPV). Despite multiple calls for such studies, little is known about the associations of PTSD, ethnic discrimination, and nativity with ND among female Hispanic survivors of PIPV. Objectives: This study aimed to do the following: 1) replicate the PTSD-ND association in a sample of female Hispanic survivors of PIPV, and 2) examine the impact of ethnic discrimination and nativity on ND among 378 female Hispanic survivors of PIPV. We hypothesized that past-year PTSD and ethnic discrimination would be associated with greater odds of past-year ND (PY-ND) and being born outside the U.S. would be associated with lower odds of PY-ND. Data was used from 378 participants in the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions Wave 2 who were female, Hispanic, and experienced PIPV. Logistic regression was used to test the impacts of past-year PTSD, ethnic discrimination and nativity on PY-ND while controlling for past-year major depressive episode, age, and personal income. Results: Results supported our hypotheses. Specifically, past-year PTSD was associated with greater odds of PY-ND, AOR = 1.91, 95% CI [1.43–2.56], and past-year ethnic discrimination was associated with greater odds of PY-ND, AOR = 2.31, 95% CI [1.82–2.93], whereas being born outside the U.S. was associated with lower odds of PY-ND, AOR = 0.33, 95% CI [0.26–0.41]. Conclusions: Findings suggest the need for additional studies to understand how ethnic discrimination and nativity affect ND among Hispanic female survivors of PIPV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hispanic women in the United States experience disproportionate mental health impacts of intimate partner violence (IPV). Following the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses extension for scoping reviews guidelines, we synthesized the existing knowledge based on IPV and mental health outcomes among Hispanic women in the United States. In May 2020, we searched five electronic databases (i.e., MEDLINE, PILOTS, PSYCInfo, PSYCArticles, and EMBASE). From the initial 1,180 results, 13 articles met inclusion criteria for this review (written in English, empirical study, focus on the experiences of victimization from an intimate partner, focus on mental health outcomes occurring in the person experiencing IPV, included women who identify as Hispanic, and included participants residing in the United States), representing 4,060 women. Findings highlighted significant positive associations between IPV (n = 13; 4,060 women) and general mental health outcomes (n = 4; 759 women) as well as the specific outcomes of depression (n = 12; 2,661 women), anxiety (n = 1; 274 women), post-traumatic stress disorder (n = 3; 515 women), and substance misuse (n = 2; 1,673 women) among Hispanic women in the United States. Limitations included heterogeneity across Hispanic populations and methodological differences between studies. Key avenues for future research were identified, including the need to examine mental health outcomes understudied in relation to IPV among Hispanic women (e.g., personality, obsessive-compulsive, and eating disorders) and to identify cultural and demographic factors (e.g., nativity status, level of acculturation) that may influence relations between IPV and mental health outcomes among Hispanic women. Such research can inform prevention and intervention efforts aimed at improving mental health among Hispanic women in the Untied States experiencing IPV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the impact of an online-delivered, theory-based narrative video on cervical cancer screening knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs in a predominantly Latino community. Methods: The study design was a nonrandomized pretest–posttest evaluation. The eligibility criteria included men and women 18 years or older not previously enrolled in our community cervical cancer screening program who had internet access. Participants were recruited via in-person county-wide flyer distribution and social media dissemination. The intervention involved a narrative video designed for Latinas delivered via the internet. The 17-minute video is novella style, with a culturally tailored storyline and setting that covers cervical cancer risk factors and statistics, importance of screening, and addresses testing barriers. The measures were knowledge about cervical cancer and screening, perceived susceptibility, perceived seriousness, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, subjective norms, and self-efficacy. Analysis was performed using change scores for knowledge and psychosocial variables and descriptive statistics for satisfaction and acceptability of the video. Results: Data from 227 surveys were analyzed; respondent mean age: 37.6 years; 98.8% female, 88.8% Hispanic; 42.0% had an annual income of $20,000 or less; and 85.2% had at least a high school education. Knowledge and all psychosocial variables improved significantly. More than 90% of the participants rated all of the satisfaction items as good or excellent. Conclusions and Implications for Practice: A culturally appropriate narrative video about cervical cancer and screening disseminated online effectively improved knowledge and psychosocial variables among Latinas. Our findings indicate that health promotion interventions online could be effective for improving desired health behavior through a new means of educational dissemination by way of websites and social media outlets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine the factors and prevalence rates associated with intimate partner violence (IPV) victimizations by nativity status among Hispanic women. Methods: Data were pooled and analyzed from the 2010 to 2020 National Crime Victimization Survey. A total of 4309 Hispanic women who responded to the citizenship question were included in the final sample. Results: IPV victimization was associated with nativity status for Hispanic women, and IPV prevalence was higher among U.S.‐born Hispanic women than foreign‐born Hispanic women. The factors of geographic region, relationship status, education level, occupation status, and substance abuse were associated with IPV victimization. Conclusion: These findings have implications for positively impacting culturally competent preventative programs and interventions to reduce IPV victimizations for Hispanic women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To investigate the association between dietary patterns and total and obesity-related cancer risk as well as to examine if acculturation modifies this relationship. Subjects and methods: Dietary intake of postmenopausal Hispanic women (N = 5,482) enrolled in the Women's Health Initiative was estimated from a Food Frequency Questionnaire and used to calculate dietary pattern scores: Healthy Eating Index-2015 (HEI-2015), Mexican Diet (MexD) score, alternate Mediterranean Diet Score (aMED), and the energy adjusted Dietary Inflammatory Index (E-DII™). Associations were evaluated using Cox proportional hazard regression models. Results: Six hundred thirty-one cancers and 396 obesity-related cancers were diagnosed over a mean follow-up of 12 years. Across dietary scores, there were no significant associations with cancer risk or mortality. Trend analysis suggested a potentially lower risk for total cancer mortality related to the highest MexD score (HR 0.68, 95% CI 0.45–1.04, P-trend = 0.03) and lower risk for obesity-related cancer mortality related to the highest score category for MexD (HR 0.65, 95% CI 0.37–1.16, P-trend = 0.02) and aMED (HR 0.87, 95% CI 0.45–1.67, P-trend = 0.04). Further analysis suggested less acculturated women with higher MexD scores had a 56% lower risk for any cancer (HR 0.44, 95% CI 0.22–0.88, P-trend = 0.03) and 83% lower risk for cancer mortality (HR 0.17, 95% CI 0.04–0.76, P-trend = 0.01) compared to more acculturated Hispanic women. Conclusions: Dietary patterns were not associated with cancer risk and mortality in postmenopausal Hispanic women. Less acculturated, Spanish-preferred speakers who report consuming a more traditional Mexican diet may experience a lower risk of cancer and cancer mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study examined attentional bias toward threat in Hispanic college women exposed to lifetime sexual victimization in childhood, adulthood, and both childhood and adulthood. Response latencies and attention bias scores were compared between victimized and non-victimized individuals. Participants were 20 women exposed to adulthood sexual victimization (AS group), 15 exposed to childhood sexual victimization (CS group), 8 exposed to both childhood and adulthood sexual assault (revictimization: RV group), and 20 not endorsing sexual victimization (NS group). They were asked to complete the dot-probe task. The CS group and RV group were combined to create the CS-RV group. Among the AS and CS-RV groups, response latencies were faster when attention was engaged to threat than when attention was engaged to non-threat. The NS group did not demonstrate such differences. When response latencies were compared among the three groups, the CS-RV group had slower response latencies than the NS group. The CS-RV and AS groups revealed similarly significantly elevated bias scores toward threat words than the NS group. Hispanic college women exposed to lifetime sexual victimization display elevated levels of attention bias compared to non-victimized women. Further, the current findings align with an integrative cognitive model for explaining maladaptive informational processing in trauma victims. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our 3-year study tested a culturally tailored digital platform to improve weight health among Hispanic women. Phase I evaluated a prototype (n = 54). Phase II tested the De Las Mías app (n = 195). Both included Hispanic women with BMI 25 to 39. In Phase II weight was measured at 0-, 3-, and 6-months. A telephone interview was conducted at 9-months. Primary outcome was >5% weight loss at 6 months. Experimental participants were approximately 6 times more likely to experience >5% weight loss at 6 months. Greater benefit was observed for participants age 35 to 50. Among participants age 35 to 50, 29.4% of the experimental group, compared with 12.1% in the control group, had >5% weight loss at 6 months (p -value =.08); and 46.9% of the experimental group, compared with 27.3% of control group participants (p -value =.10), had a gain in self-efficacy in making changes in physical activity. Nine of 10 participants overall maintained some healthy changes at 9 months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Literature shows that sexual activity remains important at older age and is a valued part of life. However, little is known about the intimate partner relationships (IPR) among minority older women living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). The purpose of this study is to explore the effect HIV diagnosis had on the intimate partner relationships (IPR) among minority older women living with HIV (MOWH). Qualitative descriptive study. A total of 28 MOWH (Black and Latinas) aged 50 years and older participated in face to face semi-structured in-depth interviews. Interviews were analyzed using content analysis. Three themes emerged from the analysis: (a)"Intimate partner relationships before HIV diagnosis" that revealed sexual practices increasing the risk for HIV in their intimate relationships; (b)"Facing relationship consequences of HIV disclosure after diagnosis" explored the consequences of HIV disclosure, and how disclosure determined the future of their intimate relationships; and (c) "Intimate partner relationships after HIV diagnosis" described the quality of intimate partner relationships and changes after HIV diagnosis. Results from this study contribute to understanding and increasing awareness of the effect of HIV on the intimacy of MOWH. Education provided by health care workers and interventions targeting MOWH should address the effect of HIV in IPR, address MOWH's concerns about it, and help them to improve their overall health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lack of adequate participation by African American and Hispanic women in breast cancer genetic research studies sustains a knowledge gap in our understanding of new and innovative scientific advances and outcomes in breast cancer research/genomics. The purpose of this study is to suggest strategies to increase African American and Hispanic women's participation in breast cancer genetic research. A review of literature reveals that historical, community involvement, cultural, discrimination!somatizations concerns, and economic factors may impact participation in breast cancer genetic research investigations. Future research investigations should involve members of the minority community as recruiters, acknowledge anticipated historical concerns up-front, address anticipated concerns of discrimination/stigmatizations, and recognize and respect a person's culture and try to work within it when attempting to recruit minority women for breast cancer genetic research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To investigate the prevalence of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use, including botanical/herbal remedies, among Hispanic and non-Hispanic white women from the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN), New Jersey site. We also examined whether attitudes toward CAM and communication of its use to providers differed for Hispanic and non-Hispanic women. Study design: SWAN is a community-based, multiethnic cohort study of midlife women. At the 13th SWAN follow-up, women at the New Jersey site completed both a general CAM questionnaire and a culturally sensitive CAM questionnaire designed to capture herbal products commonly used in Hispanic/Latina communities. Prevalence of and attitudes toward CAM use were compared by race/ethnicity and demographic characteristics. Results: Among 171 women (average age 61.8 years), the overall prevalence of herbal remedy use was high in both Hispanic and non-Hispanic white women (88.8% Hispanic and 81.3% non-Hispanic white), and prayer and herbal teas were the most common modalities used. Women reported the use of multiple herbal modalities (mean 6.6 for Hispanic and 4.0 for non-Hispanic white women; p = 0.001). Hispanic women were less likely to consider herbal treatment drugs (16% vs. 37.5%; p = 0.005) and were less likely to report sharing the use of herbal remedies with their doctors (14.4% Hispanic vs. 34% non-Hispanic white; p = 0.001). The number of modalities used was similar regardless of the number of prescription medications used. Conclusions: High prevalence of herbal CAM use was observed for both Hispanic and non-Hispanic white women. Results highlight the need for healthcare providers to query women regarding CAM use to identify potential interactions with traditional treatments and to determine whether CAM is used in lieu of traditional medications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

HPV vaccine series completion rates among adolescent Hispanic females and males (~39 and 21 %, respectively) are far below the Healthy People 80 % coverage goal. Completion of the 3-dose vaccine series is critical to reducing the incidence of HPV-associated cancers. This formative study applies social marketing theory to assess the needs and preferences of Hispanic mothers in order to guide the development of interventions to increase HPV vaccine completion. We conducted 51 in-depth interviews with Hispanic mothers of adolescents to identify the key concepts of social marketing theory (i.e., the four P's: product, price, place and promotion). Results suggest that a desire complete the vaccine series, vaccine reminders and preventing illnesses and protecting their children against illnesses and HPV all influence vaccination (product). The majority of Completed mothers did not experience barriers that prevented vaccine series completion and Initiated mothers perceived a lack of health insurance and the cost of the vaccine as potential barriers. Informational barriers were prevalent across both market segments (price). Clinics are important locations for deciding to complete the vaccine series (place). They are the preferred sources to obtain information about the HPV vaccine thus making them ideal locations to deliver intervention messages, followed by television, the child's school and brochures (promotion). Increasing HPV vaccine coverage among Hispanic adolescents will reduce the rates of HPV-associated cancers and the cervical cancer health disparity among Hispanic women. This research can inform the development of an intervention to increase HPV vaccine series completion in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine factors that affect self-care of rural Hispanic women at risk for postpartum depression (PPD). Methods: This study was a descriptive cross-sectional design based on the key concepts of Orem's Self-care Deficit Nursing theory. Data were collected from 223 Hispanic postpartum women residing in Mecca, North Shore, and Thermal in California by an interviewer-administered survey. Four instruments were utilized: Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) for PPD, Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support for social support, Duke University Religion Index (DUREL) for spirituality, and Self Rated Abilities for Health Practices for self-care. Results: The prevalence of women at risk for PPD was about 43 %. Social support, spirituality, and self-care ability were significantly correlated in women with PPD. Social support was a strong factor in predicting self-care ability for 'Nutrition', 'Psychological well-being', 'Exercise', and 'Responsible Health Practices' in the rural Hispanic women at risk for PPD. Conclusions: The study findings can enable nurses and healthcare professionals to develop effective tailored interventions to assist rural Hispanic women's abilities to perform self-care for health, and in particular, during the postpartum period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Project Healthy CHOICES, a self-administered, mail-based prevention intervention, was developed for women at risk of an alcohol-exposed pregnancy (AEP). Participants were sent their assessment and study materials through the United States Postal Service. This article uses data from a larger study (N = 354) and focuses on the 89 women who identified as Hispanic. Potential participants who called in response to English and Spanish ads and who said they could read and write Spanish were given a choice of receiving the intervention materials in English or Spanish. The main objective of the present study was to evaluate differences in outcomes as a function of (a) the language in which the intervention materials were received, and (b) the participants’ acculturation levels. Prior to the study, all women were at risk of an AEP. At the 6-month follow-up, two thirds (66%) of all Hispanic women had reduced their overall risk of an AEP, primarily by practicing effective birth control. These outcomes are similar to those reported for previous Project CHOICES studies. Significantly more women who requested the intervention materials in English (75%) compared to Spanish (41%) reduced their overall risk of an AEP. Women with high English cultural domain scores were at significantly less risk of an AEP due to effective contraception and a reduced overall risk of an AEP. Compared to other Project CHOICES studies, Project Healthy CHOICES is less intensive; it is self-administered, freely available, and can be completed without visiting a health care practitioner or clinic. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Heterosexual anal intercourse is associated with increased risk for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Research on the social and psychological risk factors associated with heterosexual unprotected anal intercourse among Hispanic women in the USA is limited. We examined demographic, mental health, relationship power, sexual self-efficacy, self-esteem, acculturation and HIV knowledge as correlates of unprotected anal intercourse among 514 HIV-negative Hispanic women, 18 to 59 years of age, residing in one urban county in southern Florida. In both unadjusted and adjusted results, the likelihood of engaging in unprotected anal intercourse was associated with food insecurity in the past 30 days (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.57, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.03, 2.40) and more interpersonal power attributed to the male partner (AOR = 1.63, 95%CI 1.08, 2.45). Not significant, yet of possible importance, were ever having engaged in exchange sex (AOR = 1.96, 95%CI = 0.97, 3.98) and lower HIV knowledge (AOR = 0.80, 95%CI = 0.63, 1.01). Interventions aimed at reducing heterosexual unprotected anal intercourse risk for HIV infection among Hispanic women may benefit by addressing socioeconomic and interpersonal issues, and assessing HIV knowledge and comprehension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent Mexican immigrant women on average have an unexpectedly low incidence of low birth weight (LBW). Birth weights decline and LBW incidence increases in post-immigrant generations. This pilot project tested the hypothesis that subjective social status (SSS) of pregnant women predicts variation in birth weight between Mexican immigrant and Mexican-American women. 300 low-income pregnant Mexican immigrant and Mexican-American women in South Texas were surveyed for SSS, depression, pregnancy-related anxiety, perceived social stress and self-esteem and subsequent birth weight. No significant difference in SSS levels between pregnant Mexican immigrant and Mexican-American women were found. However, SSS better predicted variation in birth weight across both groups than mental and psychosocial health variables. Results suggest distinct relationships among SSS, mental and psychosocial health that could impact birth weight. They underscore the relevance of a multilevel, biopsychosocial analytical framework to studying LBW. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Examine association between socio-demographic characteristics and breastfeeding knowledge, self-efficacy and breastfeeding attrition prediction among rural Hispanic women. 46 rural Hispanic women, aged 18-38 years were enrolled from Regional West Medical Center, Scottsbluff, Nebraska. Intervention (n = 23) and attention control groups (n = 23) received bi-lingual breastfeeding education using touch screen computer and printed educational material. Participants were enrolled during last 6 weeks of pregnancy. Follow up assessments were at days 3 and 7, weeks 2 and 6, and months 3 and 6 postpartum. More than half of participants were single and had 10-12 years of education. Less than half of them had ever breastfed their children. No differences in knowledge, self-efficacy and intent to breastfeed scores were seen between two groups. Significant positive association was seen between self-efficacy and intent to breastfeed. Self-efficacy is an important predictor of intent to breastfeed among rural Hispanic women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Back ground and Purpose: Measuring stress in Hispanic Americans, the fastest growing U.S. minority, is problematic. The Life Events Inventory (LEI) and the Daily Hassles Scale (DHS), widely used stress instruments, are not available in Spanish. Purpose: To test the psychometric properties of the translated Spanish versions of the LEI and DHS. Methods: A convenience sample of 63 Hispanic women completed both instruments in Spanish and English 2 weeks apart. Results: Internal consistency reliability and stability were strong for both instruments (.85-97). Reliability and validity evidence for the translated Spanish versions were strong and similar to the English version. Conclusions: Psychometric findings suggest that the newly translated Spanish versions are good representations of the English versions and that these newly translated instruments are ready for use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose/Objectives: To consider psychometric estimates of the validity and reliability of the Spanish translation of a mammography-specific self-efficacy scale. Design: A cross-sectional study. Setting: Three primarily Hispanic churches and a Hispanic community center in a low-income urban area of New Jersey. Sample: 153 low-income Hispanic women aged 40-85 years. Methods: The translated scale was administered to participants during a six-month period. Internal consistency, reliability, and construct and predictive validity were assessed. Main Research Variables: Demographic variables included income and insurance status. Outcome variables included total mammography-specific self-efficacy and having had a mammogram within the past two years. Findings: Preliminary evidence of reliability and validity were found, and predictive validity was demonstrated. Conclusions: The health needs of specific populations can be addressed only when research instruments have been appropriately validated and all relevant factors are considered. Diverse groups of low-income women face similar challenges and barriers in their efforts to get screened. Implications for Nursing: Nurses are in an ideal position to help women with preventive care decision making (e.g., screening for breast cancer). Understanding how a woman's level of self-efficacy affects her decision making should be considered when counseling a client. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose Physical inactivity and obesity are major U.S. health concerns. Hispanics have higher rates of obesity and lower incidence of meeting physical activity (PA) recommendations, however most studies on PA focus on non-Hispanic Whites. This study examined type and amount of physical activities, and their relationship to age, BMI, employment, and stress in adult female Hispanics. Data sources Sixty-three female Hispanics (mean age 34 years, SD = 10.5) were recruited in the Miami community. By BMI, of 47 women reporting both weight and height, 8.5% were underweight, 38.3% were normal weight, 27.2% were overweight, and 26.0% were obese. Women completed two instruments measuring PA and two measuring stress. Conclusions Attitudes toward PA were positive; greatest concerns were job security and finances not exercise. Leisure walking (14.3%) was the most common type of PA followed by activities watching TV (32.8%) and using video games (32.8%). Women with greater stress had higher BMIs and were less physically active ( p < .05). Implications for practice In this sample, exercise was not a main priority although 53% were overweight/obese. Stress related to employment and finances was a major concern. Interventions on stress reduction and incorporating exercise within their daily lives are important strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study sought to add to the limited information currently available on circumstances of sexual violence victimization and associated negative health experiences among Hispanic women. Data come from a community sample of mostly Mexican women in an urban southwestern city. Household interviews were completed with a sample of 142 women during 3 months in 2010. Findings indicate that 31.2% of women reported rape victimization and 22.7% reported being sexually coerced in their lifetime. Victims of rape and/or sexual coercion were significantly more likely to report symptoms of depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) during their lifetime. Among victims whose first unwanted sexual experience resulted in rape and/or sexual coercion, perpetrators were almost always someone known to the victims, and were mostly family members or intimate partners, depending on the victim’s age. About one-fifth of victims were injured and 17.1% needed medical services. These findings suggest the need for more attention to the physical and mental health needs of sexually victimized Hispanic women. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This article describes the development of a model to promote physical activity in Hispanic women that embeds a life course perspective and culture to enhance comparative effectiveness in intervention design. When working with diverse cultural groups, researchers often struggle with intervention designs and strategies to enhance cultural relevance; they do so based on the assumption that this will enhance efficacy and make interventions more sustainable. In this article, the authors discuss how the model was used in two interventions designed for younger and older Hispanic women. These interventions were guided by a life course perspective, incorporated social support, and included salient elements from the women’s culture. Three considerations underpinned the development of the model: (a) infusing concepts and values of a culture and tradition into the interventions, (b) viewing participants through a life course perspective to assess how an intervention can build on developmental transitions, and (c) determining how social support operates within two groups that, although sharing history and thus some cultural practices, diverge widely in those practices. The authors propose that by incorporating elements of this model into their interventions, researchers can increase program efficacy and effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The objectives of this study were to describe gestational weight gain (GWG) trends and identify predictors of GWG among WIC participants in Southern California, 84 % of whom are Hispanic. Using descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regression, we examined WIC data on 23,840 Hispanic women with full term pregnancies who enrolled in WIC at first trimester and had their last prenatal WIC visit within 1 month or less of their delivery date. Overall, 23.9 % of women exceeded IOM recommendations. Among Hispanic English speakers (HES), 30 % exceeded IOM recommendations compared to 18.7 % of Hispanic Spanish speakers (HSS). Among Hispanic mothers who are less than 20 years of age, 28.9 % exceeded IOM guidelines compared to 19.8 % of Hispanic mothers 35 or older. Among those who started pregnancy overweight or obese, 30.5 % exceeded IOM recommendations versus 12.1 % of those with normal BMI. Multiple logistic regression showed that the odds of exceeding the IOM recommendations were 42 % lower for HSS versus HES, decreased by 2 % for every 1 year increase in age, and increased by 5 % for every one unit increase in BMI at first trimester. Poverty level and health care coverage were also significant predictors of GWG. Given the wide reach and high quality of height/weight measurements taken by the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program, WIC administrative data have significant potential to help fill the existing gaps in GWG surveillance, a much needed step for forming policy and designing effective interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors used the hermeneutics approach within social cognitive career theory to explore employment trends and issues over the past 20 years relevant to Hispanic women who are deaf. Barriers to employment were discovered including discrepancies due to gender, race/ethnicity, and severity of hearing loss. Recommendations for policymakers and professionals suggest a need for research that addresses the unique experiences of Hispanic women who are deaf within vocational rehabilitation, the use of social cognitive career theory as it relates to career development and choices, and an increase in education and training to better prepare vocational rehabilitation counselors to work with individuals from multiple minority backgrounds. While information about Hispanic women who are deaf is limited, this review provides a better understanding of Hispanic deaf women and encourages expansion of knowledge in practice and research for professionals working with this unique population. All three authors are affiliated with the [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study relies on qualitative methods to investigate Hispanic women’s skin color perceptions. The primary goal is to identify the relevance of these perceptions on their beliefs about their own physical attractiveness. Thirty-four self-identified White-Hispanic women attending a large Hispanic Serving Institution in the southeastern United States were interviewed for this study. Unlike previous research findings on Hispanic women’s skin color preferences, findings identified a “tan” skin color as preferred; pale skin was viewed as “plain” and unattractive. This preference was associated with four themes about physical attractiveness: (1) desirability among their peer groups, (2) increased value in dating contexts, (3) sexual appeal to men, and (4) marker of Hispanic identity in social contexts. Findings from this study are important for those researchers addressing identity development and relationship issues among Hispanic populations in the United States. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The majority of programs designed to promote physical activity in older Hispanic women includes few innovative theory-based interventions that address cultural relevant strategies. The purpose of this report is to describe the design and baseline data for Mujeres en Accion, a physical activity intervention to increase regular physical activity, and cardiovascular health outcomes among older Hispanic women. Mujeres en Accion [Women in Action for Health], a 12 month randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness of a social support physical activity intervention in midlife and older Hispanic women. This study tests an innovative intervention, Mujeres en Accion, and includes the use of a theory-driven approach to intervention, explores social support as a theoretical mediating variable, use of a Promotora model and a Community Advisory group to incorporate cultural and social approaches and resources, and use of objective measures of physical activity in Hispanic women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This exploratory study assessed the belief system regarding alcohol use in a non-clinical population of Mexican American women age 55 and older drawn from a potential population of 1,000 older adults who attend nine senior centers. The overriding research question was: What are the normative attitudes, knowledge, and behavior regarding alcohol in this population of older Mexican American women? Findings from this study can serve as a baseline for comparison for future studies of older Mexican American who are more acculturated or who are second- and third-generation Mexican Americans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoporosis is a serious national public health problem, and is expected to increase significantly over the next few decades, especially in women. A limitation of bone health research exists since few studies have involved Hispanic women, and even fewer, Hispanic immigrant women. For this study we examined the effects of anthropometric, behavioral, and health history variables on bone mineral density (BMD) in 84 immigrant Hispanic women, age 40 and above. BMD was assessed at the spine, femur, and forearm using dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Demographic information, health histories, and behavioral risk factors were obtained from a questionnaire. In the younger group (mean age = 44.1 years) 61% had spinal osteopenia, and in the postmenopausal group (mean age = 53.0 years) 59% had osteopenia and 13% had osteoporosis. Femur sites were free of osteoporosis. Mean body mass index (BMI) was 31.8 ± 6.1 and mean waist girth was 95.6 ± 12.5 cm, indicating overall and abdominal obesity. Partial correlations indicated a significant positive relationship between body fat variables and total femur BMD values. ANOVAs revealed no differences in BMD values at any bone site across tertile levels for calcium intake or for physical activity. However, supplemental and dietary calcium intakes were very low and few participants engaged in regular physical activity outside of work and activities of daily living (ADL). In light of the expected increase in osteoporosis in this population and the prevalence of spinal osteopenia in the younger participants, education about the health risks of osteoporosis should be made available to this group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is argued that the media's tendency to stereotype minority groups is due, in part, to a weak identification with them. This study compared the frames used by the Miami Herald (MH), an English-language newspaper targeted to general audiences, and El Nuevo Herald (ENH), its Spanish-language counterpart targeted to Hispanics, to explore whether the stronger media identification with the audience affects the type of frames used to depict Latinas. Using framing as a theoretical framework, this investigation found that the MH emphasized the individual achievements of successful women and described them as a new profitable market. ENH highlighted the family sacrifices of successful females and depicted them as family-devoted and sensual. As a result, the greater cultural identification with the audience may avoid manifest negative stereotypes but embrace pan-ethnic stereotypes that, eventually, may become harmful because they contribute to the homogenization and racialization of a group such as Latinas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes is a major public health problem in the United States, and a dangerous disease that can lead to serious long term complications. Left uncontrolled, diabetes can lead to blindness, heart failure, kidney failure, and low extremity amputations. This challenge is further magnified by the fact that Hispanics already constitute the largest minority group in the U.S., which suggests the potential of diabetes to reach epidemic proportions. This chapter explores the role of culture and self-care practices among Hispanic women with diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most common cancer among Latinos; screening can reduce mortality from CRC. The aims of this study are; to assess the current compliance with free colorectal cancer screening among Hispanic women who are participating in a national breast and cervical cancer screening program (NBCCEDP), and to examine the effects of a set of key constructs from the HBM and the TPB on compliance with the Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT). We consecutively recruited 950 women from among those attending an initial appointment at an NBCCEDP site in northern Manhattan, and administered a questionnaire. Patients were offered a free Hemoccult® kit, alongside instructions and print materials. The rate of FOBT compliance (in kit return) was 77.3%. Fatalism remained a statistically significant influence on FOBT compliance in the multivariate models, and there was a trend for higher FOBT return among West Indies women (primarily from the Dominican Republic). The findings of this study demonstrate the feasibility and acceptability of distributing FOBT kits through an existing national program for cancer screening of women. The results justify replication in a more heterogeneous group of Hispanics, with longer-term followup. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVES: To compare the use of preventive practices of Hispanic- and African-American women aged 50 and older. DESIGN: A cross-sectional survey. SETTING: Inpatient and outpatient units of a teaching hospital located in South Central Los Angeles. PARTICIPANTS: Convenience sample of 337 women aged 50 and older. MEASUREMENTS: Demographic and lifestyle characteristics and selected preventive practices. Preventive practices reported were self-breast examination, mammography, Papanicolaou (Pap) smear, digital rectal examination and stool occult blood examination, sigmoidoscopy, chemoprophylaxis, and immunization. Information was obtained in a face-to-face interview. RESULTS: African-American women were more likely to have had a Pap smear ever and to have used aspirin prophylaxis than Hispanic women. CONCLUSION: There were no major differences in the use of preventive services by the two ethnic groups except for Pap smear and aspirin use. Immunization and colorectal cancer screening rates were low in African-American and Hispanic women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]