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Hispanic/Latino youth are less physically active than non-Hispanic/Latino youth. We assessed whether activity-specific parenting practices relate to moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and sedentary behavior among Hispanic/Latino youth, and whether cultural (acculturation) and neighborhood characteristics (perceived barriers to activity) relate to the use of parenting practice patterns. Using the Hispanic Community Children’s Health Study/Study of Latino Youth (SOL Youth, n = 976 8–16-year-olds), we modeled linear regression associations between parenting practices and mean daily MVPA and sedentary behavior. Parenting practice patterns were then developed using k-means cluster analysis, and regressed on parental acculturation and neighborhood characteristics. Discipline predicted higher MVPA in females (β 1.89 [95% CI 0.11–3.67]), while Monitoring/Reinforcement predicted higher MVPA in males (β 4.71 [95% CI 0.68–8.74]). Three patterns were then identified: Negative Reinforcement (high Limit Setting and Discipline use), Positive Reinforcement (high Limit Setting and Monitoring/Reinforcement use), and Permissive Parenting (low parenting practice use). Higher acculturation predicted use of Positive Reinforcement. Activity-specific parenting practices are associated with activity in sex-specific ways among Hispanic/Latino youth, and cultural factors predict the use of parenting practices.

Objectives. To estimate treatment rates of high cholesterol, hypertension, and diabetes among Hispanic/Latino immigrants by immigration status (i.e., naturalized citizens, documented immigrants, or undocumented immigrants). Methods. We performed a cross-sectional analyses of the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (visit 2, 2014–2017). We restricted our analysis to Hispanic/Latino immigrants with high cholesterol (n = 3974), hypertension (n = 3353), or diabetes (n = 2406); treatment was defined as use of statins, antihypertensives, and antidiabetics, respectively. Results. When compared with naturalized citizens, undocumented and documented immigrants were less likely to receive treatment for high cholesterol (38.4% vs 14.1%; prevalence ratio [PR] = 0.37 [95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.27, 0.51] and 25.7%; PR = 0.67 [95% CI = 0.58, 0.76]), hypertension (77.7% vs 57.7%; PR = 0.74 [95% CI = 0.62, 0.89] and 68.1%; PR = 0.88 [95% CI = 0.82, 0.94]), and diabetes (60.3% vs. 50.4%; PR = 0.84 [95% CI = 0.68, 1.02] and 55.8%; PR = 0.93 [95% CI = 0.83, 1.03]); the latter did not reach statistical significance. Undocumented and documented immigrants had less access to health care, including insurance coverage or a usual health care provider, than naturalized citizens. Therefore, adjusting for health care access largely explained treatment disparities across immigration status. Conclusions. Preventing cardiovascular disease among Hispanic/Latino immigrants should focus on undertreatment of high cholesterol, hypertension, and diabetes by increasing health care access, especially among undocumented immigrants.

BACKGROUND: Although Hispanics/Latinos in the United States are often considered a single ethnic group, they represent a heterogenous mixture of ancestries who can self-identify as any race defined by the U.S. Census. They have higher ESKD incidence compared with non-Hispanics, but little is known about the CKD incidence in this population. METHODS: We examined rates and risk factors of new-onset CKD using data from 8774 adults in the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos. Incident CKD was defined as eGFR 140/90 mm Hg, higher glycated hemoglobin, lower baseline eGFR, and higher baseline urine albumin/creatinine ratio. CONCLUSIONS: CKD incidence varies by Hispanic/Latino heritage and this disparity may be in part attributed to differences in sociodemographic characteristics. Culturally tailored public heath interventions focusing on the prevention and control of risk factors might ameliorate the CKD burden in this population.

The objective of this study was to determine how well Hispanic/Latino siblings' diet quality correlate with each other and whether social and environmental factors explained potential differences. Hispanic/Latino 8-16-year-olds from the cross-sectional Hispanic Community Children's Health Study/Study of Latino Youth (SOL Youth) with at least one sibling enrolled in the study were examined (n = 740). Diet quality was assessed with the Healthy Eating Index 2010 (HEI-2010), calculated from two 24-h recalls. Mixed effects models were used with HEI-2010 score as the outcome, and correlations in siblings' diet quality were assessed with intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). All models were examined stratified by age and sex. Diet-related social and environmental measures were added as fixed effects in a secondary analysis. Mean (standard deviation) overall HEI-2010 score was 53.8 (13.0). The ICC for siblings' HEI-2010 score was 0.31 (95% CI: 0.25, 0.38). Siblings who were born

Current U.S. dietary guidelines recommend a daily potassium intake of 3400 mg/day for men and 2600 mg/day for women. Sub-optimal access to nutrient-rich foods may limit potassium intake and increase cardiometabolic risk. We examined the association of neighborhood characteristics related to food availability with potassium intake in the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL). 13,835 participants completed a 24-h dietary recall assessment and had complete covariates. Self-reported potassium intake was calibrated with an objective 24-h urinary potassium biomarker, using equations developed in the SOL Nutrition &amp, Physical Activity Assessment Study (SOLNAS, N = 440). Neighborhood population density, median household income, Hispanic/Latino diversity, and a retail food environment index by census tract were obtained. Linear regression assessed associations with 24-h potassium intake, adjusting for individual-level and neighborhood confounders. Mean 24-h potassium was 2629 mg/day based on the SOLNAS biomarker and 2702 mg/day using multiple imputation and HCHS/SOL biomarker calibration. Compared with the lowest quartile of neighborhood population density, living in the highest quartile was associated with a 26% lower potassium intake in SOLNAS (adjusted fold-change 0.74, 95% CI 0.59–0.94) and a 39% lower intake in HCHS/SOL (adjusted fold-change 0.61 95% CI 0.45–0.84). Results were only partially explained by the retail food environment. The mechanisms by which population density affects potassium intake should be further studied.

Background Sociocultural factors, such as health insurance status, income, education, and acculturation, predict cancer screening among U.S. Hispanics/Latinos. However, these factors can be difficult to modify. More research is needed to identify individual-level modifiable factors that may improve screening and subsequent cancer outcomes in this population. The aim of this study was to examine cancer fatalism (i.e., the belief that there is little or nothing one can do to lower his/her risk of developing cancer) as a determinant of adherence to national screening guidelines for colorectal, breast, prostate, and cervical cancer among Hispanics/Latinos. Methods Participants were from the multi-site Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL) Sociocultural Ancillary Study (N = 5313). The National Cancer Institute (NCI) Health Interview National Trends Survey was used to assess cancer fatalism and receipt of cancer screening. Adherence was defined as following screening guidelines from United States Preventive Services Task Force and the American Cancer Society during the study period. Results Adjusting for well-established determinants of cancer screening and covariates (health insurance status, income, education, acculturation, age, Hispanic/Latino background), lower cancer fatalism was marginally associated with greater adherence to screening for colorectal (OR 1.13, 95% CI [.99–1.30], p = .07), breast (OR 1.16, 95% CI [.99–1.36], p = .08) and prostate cancer (OR 1.18, 95% CI [.97–1.43], p = .10), but not cervical cancer. Conclusions The associations of cancer fatalism were small and marginal, underlining that sociocultural factors are more robust determinants of cancer screening adherence among Hispanics/Latinos.

Background: Hispanic youth are less physically active and more sedentary than non-Hispanic youth, contributing to relatively high rates of obesity among the nation’s largest ethnic minority group. Though parents can influence children’s behavior, it is unclear whether parenting practices related to the child’s physical activity are associated with activity in Hispanic/Latino youth, and whether cultural and environmental contexts predict the use of these parenting practices. Objective: We assessed 1) whether activity-specific parenting practices (ASPPs) are associated with moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and sedentary activity among Hispanic/Latino youth, and 2) if higher parental acculturation and greater perceived neighborhood-level socioeconomic challenges are associated with the use of less effective ASPP patterns. Methods: Youth from the Hispanic Community Children’s Health Study/Study of Latino Youth (SOL Youth; n=976) were examined. Activity was assessed using 7-day accelerometer data. ASPPs were identified from the Parenting strategies for Eating and Activity Scale (PEAS) using exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis of the ten items on activity. We used survey-weighted linear regression models to assess whether derived ASPPs predicted mean daily MVPA and sedentary time. K-means cluster analysis was used to group individuals based on ASPP use. Finally, we used survey-weighted multinomial logistic regression models to examine the association of parent acculturation-related measures and perceived neighborhood socioeconomic status and barriers to activity with ASPP cluster membership. Results: Factor analysis of the activity-specific PEAS items identified three ASPPs: Limit Setting, Discipline, and Monitoring/Reinforcement. Discipline predicted higher MVPA in females only (β 1.89 [95% CI 0.11-3.67]), and Monitoring/Reinforcement predicted higher MVPA in males only (β 4.71 [95% CI 0.68-8.74]). There was no association between Limit Setting and MVPA or any ASPPs and sedentary activity. K-cluster analysis revealed three ASPP patterns: Restrictive (high scores for Limit Setting and Discipline), Supportive (high scores for Limit Setting and Monitoring/Reinforcement) and Permissive (low score across ASPPs). Higher Anglo-orientation on the Brief ARSMA-II acculturation measure predicted membership in the Supportive compared to Permissive cluster (p= 0.03), while perceived neighborhood characteristics did not predict ASPP cluster membership. Conclusions: ASPPs are associated with MVPA in sex-specific ways but have no association with sedentary activity in Hispanic/Latino youth. Among acculturation and neighborhood characteristics, only Anglo-orientation predicted ASPPs patterns. More research is needed to understand how acculturation is influencing ASPPs and if ASPPs can be leveraged to change children’s activity.

Introduction: Perceived discrimination stress and acculturation are associated with CVD, but their association with cardiac structure and function have not been well studied. Hypothesis: We hypothesized that increased discrimination would be associated with abnormal LV structure and function and that low acculturation positively moderates this association after adjusting for CVD risk factors. Methods: ECHO-SOL enrolled Hispanics/Latinos, aged 45-74, living in the Bronx, Chicago, Miami, and San Diego. Echocardiographic measurements included: LV Mass Index (LVMI), LV geometry, left atrial volume index (LAVI), LV diastolic dysfunction (LVDD), and LVEF. Discrimination scales from the Brief PEDQ-CV included: total discrimination, exclusion/rejection, stigmatization/devaluation, discrimination at work/school, and threat/aggression. Spanish-language preference, foreign-born and shorter length of U.S. residence defined low acculturation. Linear regression, using sampling weights, assessed the association of outcomes with discrimination measures, adjusting for CVD risk factors, followed by stratification by acculturation level. Results: Participants (n=1818) were largely Spanish-speaking (86%), foreign-born (92%), with 49% living in the U.S. >20 years. Mean age was 56.4 years (SE = 0.37). Fifty percent had hypertension, 28% had diabetes, and 44% were obese. Mean total discrimination was 24.8 (SE = 0.4). LVDD was 52% and abnormal LV geometry was 45%. In unadjusted analysis, stigmatization/devaluation was associated with higher LVMI (β = 0.88; p = 0.003) and LAVI (β = 0.26; p = 0.003). Discrimination at work/school was associated with higher LVEF (β = 0.197; p = 0.007). In adjusted analysis, stigmatization/devaluation continued to predict higher LAVI (β = 0.30; p = 0.0009) but not LVMI. Discrimination at work/school continued to predict increasing LVEF (β = 0.22; p = 0.001). Total discrimination became significant for increased LVEF (β = 0.06; p = 0.006). In adjusted analyses stratified by acculturation, stigmatization/devaluation predicted higher LAVI among Spanish language preference (β = 0.30; p = 0.004) and foreign-born individuals (β = 0.32; p = 0.0016). Work/school discrimination (β = 0.20; p = 0.006) predicted increasing LVEF in foreign-born individuals. Total discrimination predicted increased LVEF among Spanish language preference (β = 0.073; p = 0.008) and foreign-born individuals (β = 0.07; p = 0.007). Stigma/devaluation was associated with higher LVMI among Spanish language preference (β = 0.97; p = 0.004) and foreign-born individuals (β = 1.09; p = 0.0005) in unadjusted but not adjusted models. Conclusions: In conclusion, stigma/devaluation predicted higher LVMI and LAVI in unadjusted analyses but only higher LAVI when adjusted. Total and work/school discrimination predicted higher LVEF. Low acculturation stratification resulted in similar findings.

Background: News reports and hate crime data suggest that anti-Hispanic/Latino immigrant sentiment was expressed by some sectors of the U.S. public during the 2016 Presidential campaign and election. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between this period and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors thought to be responsive to acute stress exposure among Hispanic/Latino adults in the US. Methods: Data were from the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL), a prospective cohort study of Hispanic/Latino adults living in the US. The analytic sample was limited to non-pregnant adults, 35 to 74 years old, who participated in Visit 1 (2008-2011) and Visit 2 (2014-2017). The exposed were defined as participants who completed Visit 2 in 2016 and the unexposed were defined as participants who completed Visit 2 in 2014 or 2015. Cardiovascular disease risk factors included elevated depressive symptoms (CESD-10 score: 10+), current smoking, and at-risk levels of alcohol consumption (women: 7+ drinks/week; men: 14+ drinks/week). Current alcohol use (i.e., any current alcohol use) was also examined as a potential stress-related outcome. Predicted marginal risk ratio models were used to estimate incident Visit 2 outcomes as a function of exposure to the year 2016 among individuals who did not have those outcomes at Visit 1. Models were adjusted for age and insurance status at Visit 1. A priori interactions with nativity status, duration of residence in the US, and Hispanic/Latino background group were examined. Results: No statistically significant association between 2016 exposure and elevated depressive symptoms was observed in the main model, but additive interaction by Hispanic/Latino background group was observed ( p = 0.03) (Mexican and Central American background: RR adjusted : 1.28 (0.94, 1.76); Hispanics/Latinos of other background groups: RR adjusted : 0.85 (0.66, 1.09)). No association between 2016 exposure and incident smoking or incident at-risk alcohol consumption was observed and tests for interaction were not statistically significant. For incident current alcohol use, borderline trends in the main model suggested an association with the exposure (RR adjusted : 1.11 (0.99, 1.26)). Further, statistically significant additive interaction by nativity status was observed (Foreign-born: RR adjusted : 1.20 (1.06, 1.37); US/Puerto Rico-born: RR adjusted : 0.78 (0.55, 1.09)). Conclusions: Trends from study findings suggest an association between exposure to anti-Hispanic/Latino immigrant sentiment in 2016 and current alcohol use among foreign-born Hispanic/Latino adults. Given limitations of using time as a proxy for exposure to anti-Hispanic/Latino immigrant sentiment, future studies should explore more specific measurements of sentiment during this time and explore short and long-term effects of this sentiment.

Objective Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are implicated in diseases of adulthood. We report the prevalence of ACEs in Hispanics/Latinos in the US and their association with major risk factors and diseases in adulthood. Methods Data from the Sociocultural Ancillary Study of the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL) were used. The Sociocultural Ancillary Study of the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos is an epidemiological study conducted in four urban communities in the US: Bronx, Chicago, Miami, and San Diego. The analytic sample comprised 5117 participants, ages 18 to 74 at baseline. Linear and logistic models, adjusted for sociodemographic factors, were used to examine associations of ACEs and risk factors (depressive symptoms, obesity, smoking, and alcohol use) and chronic disease (coronary heart disease, stroke, diabetes, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and cancer); the latter were also adjusted for risk factors. Results Most participants (77.2%) experienced at least one ACE, and 28.7% experienced four or more. Adverse childhood experiences were common among all ancestry groups, with variability among them. Prevalence of four or more ACEs was higher among women than men (31.2% and 25.8%, respectively). Adverse childhood experiences were associated with depressive symptoms, body mass index, smoking, alcohol use, cancer, coronary heart disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, but not asthma, diabetes, or stroke. Associations were not moderated by social support. Conclusions Adverse childhood experiences are prevalent among US Hispanics/Latinos and are involved in disease in adulthood. The apparent higher prevalence of ACEs in US Hispanics/Latinos did not correspond with stronger associations with disease. Further studies are needed to identify factors that may moderate the associations of ACE with adult disease.

PURPOSE: To investigate the association between undocumented immigration status and anxiety, depression and use of anxiolytic or antidepressant medications in the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos. METHODS: Cross-sectional analysis of data collected between 2014–2017. Participants were categorized as US-born citizens, naturalized citizens, documented non-citizens, or undocumented non-citizens. We calculated prevalence and prevalence ratios (PRs) for anxiety, depression and use of anxiolytic or antidepressant medication, by immigration status. RESULTS: Of 9,257 participants, 1403 (15%) were undocumented non-citizens, 2872 (31%) were documented non-citizens, 3766 (41%) were naturalized citizens, and 1216 (13%) were US-born citizens. Prevalence of anxiety was lower among undocumented compared to documented noncitizens (9 vs 15%, p

There is a significant burden of hypertension in the United States, which extends to the large and growing Hispanic/Latino population. Previous literature suggests that psychosocial factors are related to hypertension in Hispanics/Latinos. However, cultural factors unique to this population have been largely understudied in this context. The purpose of the current investigation was to examine the association of hypertension prevalence with social support and simpatía, a Hispanic/Latino cultural value emphasizing social harmony. Cross-sectional data from 5,313 adult Hispanics/Latinos, age 18 to 75 years, representing multiple heritage groups were collected as part of the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos Sociocultural Ancillary Study. Contrary to predictions, higher social support was related to higher odds of hypertension prevalence across models (OR = 1.11, 95% CI: 1.02, 1.22). In the final main effects logistic regression model, higher simpatía was related to lower odds of hypertension (OR = .83, 95% CI: .77, .90). Sex modified the link between simpatía and hypertension, with significant effects for men but not women. A 1 SD increase in simpatía was associated with 36% lower odds of hypertension in Hispanic/Latino men. The findings suggest that social support was inversely related with hypertension prevalence and that simpatía may be a protective cultural characteristic in relation to hypertension in the Hispanic/Latino population, but only in men. These results contribute to a growing discourse about the role of Hispanic/Latino cultural values in cardiovascular health.

The purpose of this study was to determine if hostility is associated with physical and mental health-related quality of life (QoL) in US. Hispanics/Latinos after accounting for depression and anxiety.Analyses included 5313 adults (62% women, 18-75 years) who completed the ancillary sociocultural assessment of the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos. Participants completed the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale, Spielberger Trait Anxiety Scale, Spielberger Trait Anger Scale, Cook-Medley Hostility cynicism subscale and Short Form Health Survey. In a structural regression model, associations of hostility with mental and physical QoL were examined.In a model adjusting for age, sex, disease burden, income, education and years in the US., hostility was related to worse mental QoL, and was marginally associated with worse physical QoL. However, when adjusting for the influence of depression and anxiety, greater hostility was associated with better mental QoL, and was not associated with physical QoL.Results indicate observed associations between hostility and QoL are confounded by symptoms of anxiety and depression, and suggest hostility is independently associated with better mental QoL in this population. Findings also highlight the importance of differentiating shared and unique associations of specific emotions with health outcomes.

Introduction: Over 30 million Americans suffer from hearing loss (HL). Studies suggest that established cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors may contribute to the pathophysiology of the inner ear. However, the aggregate effect of CVD risk factors on hearing is not well understood. Hypothesis: We hypothesized that high CVD risk burden is associated with worse hearing. Methods: We assessed younger (ages 18-34) and older (ages 55-64) Hispanic Community Health Study / Study of Latinos participants who underwent audiometry in 2008-11. After excluding those with conductive pathology and asymmetric HL, we randomly chose one ear for analysis. Puretone thresholds were obtained at 0.5-8 kHz; puretone average (PTA) was calculated using thresholds at 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 kHz. Low CVD risk burden was defined as having all of: blood pressure (BP) 160/>100 mmHg (or antihypertensive use); and total cholesterol >240 mg/dL (or statin use). By age group and sex, we estimated hearing thresholds per frequency with linear regression models adjusted for noise exposure. Least squares estimates were calculated using strata-specific means of covariates. Estimates were compared via t-tests. Data were weighted for all analyses and accounted for clustering. Results: Among younger and older individuals in the target population (51.9% female), 28.8% had low and 5.5% had high CVD risk. Younger men with high CVD risk had worse PTA than young men with low risk (7.7 dB HL [7.0-8.4] vs. 10.5 dB HL [8.4-12.5], p =0.02), and had significantly worse thresholds at 1,3,4,6 kHz than those with low risk ( Figure ). There was no difference in PTA or thresholds at any frequency by CVD risk burden in young women, older men, or older women. Conclusions: CVD risk burden is associated with HL among young men, but not young women or older adults. CVD risk burden may be useful for identifying young men at risk for HL.

Background: The prevalence of major cardiovascular risk factors and chronic kidney disease (CKD) is high in U.S. Hispanics/Latinos. Hypotheses: We assessed the hypotheses that the incidence of CKD will vary by Hispanic/Latino heritage, and that cardiovascular risk factors will be associated with incident CKD among Hispanic/Latino adults. Methods: We used data from HCHS/SOL, the largest community-based cohort of 16,415 self-identified Hispanic/Latino adults from diverse backgrounds in the U.S., aged 18-74 years at visit 1 (baseline, 2008-2011), and ongoing second clinic examination (2014-2017). This preliminary analysis describes results from 7,144 adults who attended visit 1 and 2 by September 2016, and did not have CKD at baseline. Incident CKD was defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) 2 and eGFR decline ≥1 ml/min/year, or urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) ≥30 mg/g. Incidence rates for CKD and incidence rate ratios (RR) for the association between cardiovascular risk factors at baseline and incident CKD were estimated using Poisson regression with robust variance while accounting for the complex sampling design of HCHS/SOL. Results: In 5.7 years mean follow-up, 430 individuals developed CKD (61.2% women). The age- and gender-adjusted incidence rate of CKD ranged from 6.0% (South Americans) to 14.9% (Puerto Ricans) per 1000 person-years (Table). Higher systolic blood pressure (RR, 95% CI, 1.02, 1.01-1.02, per one mm Hg increment), glycated hemoglobin (1.17, 1.07-1.27, per one percentage point increment), and log-UACR (3.29, 2.60-4.16, per one unit increment) were significantly associated with incident CKD. LDL and HDL cholesterol were not significantly associated with incident CKD. Conclusions: The incidence of CKD varies markedly by Hispanic/Latino heritage. Systolic blood pressure, glycated hemoglobin and albuminuria are important in the development of CKD in this population. Future work will focus on further evaluation of these differences/associations.

ObjectiveHispanics/Latinos, the largest immigrant population in the USA, undergo the process of acculturation and have a large burden of heart failure risk. Few studies have examined the association of acculturation on cardiac structure and function.DesignCross-sectional.SettingThe Echocardiographic Study of Latinos.Participants1818 Hispanic adult participants with baseline echocardiographic assessment and acculturation measured by the Short Acculturation Scale, nativity, age at immigration, length of US residence, generational status and language.Primary and secondary outcome measuresEchocardiographic assessment of left atrial volume index (LAVI), left ventricular mass index (LVMI), early diastolic transmitral inflow and mitral annular velocities.ResultsThe study population was predominantly Spanish-speaking and foreign-born with mean residence in the US of 22.7 years, mean age of 56.4 years; 50% had hypertension, 28% had diabetes and 44% had a body mass index >30 kg/m2. Multivariable analyses demonstrated higher LAVI with increasing years of US residence. Foreign-born and first-generation participants had higher E/e′ but lower LAVI and e′ velocities compared with the second generation. Higher acculturation and income >$20K were associated with higher LVMI, LAVI and E/e′ but lower e′ velocities. Preferential Spanish-speakers with an income ConclusionsAcculturation was associated with abnormal cardiac structure and function, with some effect modification by socioeconomic status.

Introduction Female sex is a risk factor for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Previous literature suggests that some diastolic dysfunction (DD) develops during pregnancy and may persist postdelivery. Our objective was to examine the relationship between parity and cardiac structure and function in a population-based cohort. Methods Participants included 1172 Hispanic/Latina women, aged ≥45 years, enrolled in the Echocardiographic Study of Latinos from four US communities (Bronx, Miami, San Diego and Chicago). Standard echocardiographic techniques were used to measure cardiac volumes, left ventricular mass, systolic and diastolic function. Using sampling weights and survey statistics, multivariable linear and logistic regression models were constructed adjusting for age, body mass index, diabetes or prediabetes, systolic blood pressure, use of antihypertensive medications, smoking, total cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Results In the target population, 5.0% were nulliparous (no live births) and 10.5% were grand multiparous (≥5 live births). Among the nulliparous women, 46% had DD as compared with 51%–58% of women with 1–4 live births and 81% of women with ≥5 live births (p

Background Despite variations in the prevalence of cardiovascular disease and related risk factors among US Hispanic/Latino adults of diverse backgrounds, there is little information on whether disparities exist in the use of medications for the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease. We examined the prevalence of statin and aspirin use among diverse US Hispanic/Latino adults at high cardiovascular risk. Methods and Results A multicenter population‐based study, the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study Of Latinos, included a total of 16 415 participants of Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, Dominican, South American, and Central American backgrounds who were aged 18 to 74 years and enrolled between March 2008 and June 2011. Our analyses were limited to 4139 participants considered to be at high cardiovascular risk. Age‐adjusted prevalence of statin and aspirin use was 25% and 44%, respectively, overall but varied by Hispanic/Latino background among those at high cardiovascular risk; statin use was significantly higher ( P CI 1.30–2.31) to 1.30 (95% CI 0.97–1.75), and with a Dominican background, from an odds ratio of 1.45 (95% CI 1.04–2.02) to 1.07 (95% CI 0.75–1.52), in comparison to their counterparts. Conclusions Among Hispanic/Latino adults of diverse backgrounds, statin use was more prevalent among adults with Puerto Rican and Dominican backgrounds at high cardiovascular risk. These differences in statin use were explained, in part, by differences in insurance coverage. These findings have important implications for the prevention of disparities in cardiovascular outcomes within the growing US Hispanic/Latino population.

Objectives: Little is known about the relationship of acculturation and favorable cardiovascular (CV) health (i.e., low CV risk) in the Hispanic/Latino population. Methods: Age-adjusted prevalences (weighted for sampling probability and non-response) are reported. Logistic regression was used to examine associations of acculturation (measured using nativity and length of residence: 2 ; and no major ECG abnormalities) in 15,047 HCHS/SOL participants (52.4% women) of Central American, South American, Cuban, Dominican, Mexican, Puerto Rican background, and Hispanic/Latino men and women identifying as other or >1 background group. We also tested whether these associations varied by Hispanic/Latino background. Results: Among women, age-adjusted low CV risk prevalence was highest for those living in the US < 10 years (15.4%) and similar for those living in the US ≥ 10 years (9.4%) and born in the US (9.2%). Low CV risk prevalence in was lower in men, but patterns were similar by acculturation ( Conclusions: These findings highlight the role that acculturation plays in shaping cardiovascular health in Hispanics/Latinos.

Introduction: There is mounting evidence linking positive psychological functioning to restorative health processes and favorable medical outcomes. However, very little is known about the relationship between optimism--an indicator of psychological functioning--and the American Heart Association ( AHA ) defined concept of cardiovascular health ( CVH ), particularly in Hispanics/Latinos of diverse backgrounds. Hypothesis: Persons with greater optimism will have more favorable CVH profiles. Methods: We analyzed data from adults ages 18-75 that participated in the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos ( HCHS/SOL ) Sociocultural Ancillary Study in 2010-11. Optimism was assessed using the Life-Orientation Test-Revised, with scores ranging from 6-24 and higher scores indicative of greater levels of optimism. AHA classification standards were used to derive a composite CVH score with subsequent grouping into categorizes of poor (0-7 points), intermediate (8-11 points), and ideal (12-14 points). Metrics considered when calculating the overall CVH score included diet, body mass index, physical activity, cholesterol, blood pressure, fasting glucose, and smoking status. Multinomial logistic regression was used to examine associations of optimism with ideal and intermediate CVH (poor CVH—ref. group), after adjusting for socio-demographic factors and depressive symptoms. Results: Among 4,960 participants with complete data, 9.2% were categorized as having ideal CVH. In multivariable-adjusted models, participants with moderate levels of optimism were more likely to have intermediate [OR = 1.37: 95%CI = 1.08, 1.74] and ideal [OR = 1.61: 95%CI = 1.04, 2.48] CVH when compared to the least optimistic group ( Table 1 ). Conclusions: The current study offers preliminary evidence for an association between optimism and CVH in a large heterogeneous group of Hispanic/Latino adults. Future studies should explore the concept of optimistic bias and whether exaggerated levels of optimism are detrimental to health.

Background— Reference limits for echocardiographic quantification of cardiac chambers in Hispanics are not well studied. Methods and Results— We examined the reference values of left atrium and left ventricle (LV) structure in a large ethnically diverse Hispanic cohort. Two-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography was performed in 1818 participants of the Echocardiographic Study of Latinos (ECHO-SOL). Individuals with body mass index ≥30 kg/m 2 , hypertension, diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease, and atrial fibrillation were excluded leaving 525 participants defined as healthy reference cohort. We estimated 95th weighted percentiles of LV end systolic volume, LV end diastolic volume, relative wall and septal thickness, LV mass, and left atrial volume. We then used upper reference limits of the 2005 and 2015 American Society of Echocardiography (ASE) and 95th percentile of reference cohort to classify the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL) target population into abnormal and normal. Reference limits were also calculated for each of 6 Hispanic origins. Using ASE 2015 defined reference values, we categorized 7%, 21%, 57%, and 17% of men and 18%, 29%, 60%, and 26% of women as having abnormal LV mass index, relative, septal, and posterior wall thickness, respectively. Conversely, 10% and 11% of men and 4% and 2% of women were classified as having abnormal end-diastolic volume and internal diameter by ASE 2015 cutoffs, respectively. Similar differences were found when we used 2005 ASE cutoffs. Several differences were noted in distribution of cardiac structure and volumes among various Hispanic/Latino origins. Cubans had highest values of echocardiographic measures, and Central Americans had the lowest. Conclusions— This is the first large study that provides normal reference values for cardiac structure. It further demonstrates that a considerable segment of Hispanic/Latinos residing in the United States may be classified as having abnormal measures of cardiac chambers when 2015 and 2005 ASE reference cutoffs are used.

Sleep apnea (SA) may promote hearing impairment (HI) through ischemia and inflammation of the cochlea. Our objective was to assess an independent association between SA and HI in the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL) participants.

Individuals with favorable levels of all readily measured major CVD risk factors (low CV risk) during middle age incur lower cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, lower all-cause mortality, and lower Medicare costs at older ages compared to adults with one or more unfavorable CVD risk factors. Studies on predictors of low CV risk in Hispanics/Latinos have focused solely on Mexican-Americans. The objective of this study was to use data from the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL; enrolled 2008 to 2011) to assess relationships of nativity and length of residence in the US, a commonly used proxy for acculturation, with low CV risk (not currently smoking; no diabetes; untreated total cholesterol 1 heritage. We also tested whether associations varied by Hispanic/Latino background. Women living in the US

Introduction: Higher urinary albumin has been associated with cardiac dysfunction in the general population. The generalizability of these findings to Hispanics/Latinos, a group in which ethnic CVD disparities have been documented, is unknown. Methods: Echo-SOL is an ancillary study of the HCHS/SOL, a population-based study of Hispanics/Latinos across 4 US sites. Echo-SOL participants underwent standard echocardiography. Urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) was used to assess albuminuria and categorized as normal and high normal (based on the midpoint of values below microalbuminuria), microalbuminuria (≥17 mg/g for men; ≥25 for women), and macroalbuminuria (≥250; ≥355). Outcomes included left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy (using standard sex-specific cutpoints for LV mass index), LV systolic dysfunction (EF Results: The study sample consisted of 1,525 participants (median age 54, female 65%, median BMI 29, diabetes 27%). Overall, 43% had normal UACR, 43% high normal UACR, 12% microalbuminuria, and 2% macroalbuminuria. The prevalence of LV hypertrophy was 13%, LV systolic dysfunction 3%, and diastolic dysfunction 59%. After adjustment, both micro- and macroalbuminuria were significantly associated with LV hypertrophy but not LV systolic dysfunction (Table). Increasing levels of albuminuria, even at high normal levels, were significantly associated with greater diastolic dysfunction. Conclusions: Higher UACR was associated with LV hypertrophy and diastolic dysfunction in the largest known population sample of US Hispanic/Latinos. These findings suggest that screening and detection of even high normal UACR could be of value to guide CVD prevention efforts among Hispanic Americans, who may represent an especially vulnerable population.

Asthma has been reported to be more prevalent among Hispanics of Puerto Rican heritage than among other Hispanics and among Hispanics born in the United States or who immigrated as children than among those who came as adults; however, direct comparisons across Hispanic groups are lacking.To test whether asthma is more prevalent among Hispanics of Puerto Rican heritage than among other Hispanic groups, whether asthma is associated with age of immigration, and whether chronic obstructive pulmonary disease varies by heritage in a large, population-based cohort of Hispanics in the United States.The Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos researchers recruited a population-based probability sample of 16,415 Hispanics/Latinos, 18-74 years of age, in New York City, Chicago, Miami, and San Diego. Participants self-reported Puerto Rican, Cuban, Dominican, Mexican, Central American, or South American heritage; birthplace; and, if relevant, age at immigration. A respiratory questionnaire and standardized spirometry were performed with post-bronchodilator measures for those with airflow limitation.The prevalence of physician-diagnosed asthma among Puerto Ricans (36.5%; 95% confidence interval, 33.6-39.5%) was higher than among other Hispanics (odds ratio, 3.9; 95% confidence interval, 3.3-4.6). Hispanics who were born in the mainland United States or had immigrated as children had a higher asthma prevalence than those who had immigrated as adults (19.6, 19.4, and 14.1%, respectively; P 0.001). Current asthma, bronchodilator responsiveness, and wheeze followed similar patterns. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease prevalence was higher among Puerto Ricans (14.1%) and Cubans (9.8%) than among other Hispanics (6.0%), but it did not vary across Hispanic heritages after adjustment for smoking and prior asthma (P = 0.22), by country of birth, or by age at immigration.Asthma was more prevalent among Puerto Ricans, other Hispanics born in the United States, and those who had immigrated as children than among other Hispanics. In contrast, the higher prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease among Puerto Ricans and Cubans was largely reflective of differential smoking patterns and asthma.

Information regarding the prevalence and determinants of cardiac structure and function (systolic and diastolic) among the various Hispanic background groups in the United States is limited.The Echocardiographic Study of Latinos (ECHO-SOL) ancillary study recruited 1,824 participants through a stratified-sampling process representative of the population-based Hispanic Communities Health Study - Study of Latinos (HCHS-SOL) across four sites (Bronx, NY; Chicago, Ill; San Diego, Calif; Miami, Fla). The HCHS-SOL baseline cohort did not include an echo exam. ECHO-SOL added the echocardiographic assessment of cardiac structure and function to an array of existing HCHS-SOL baseline clinical, psychosocial, and socioeconomic data and provides sufficient statistical power for comparisons among the Hispanic subgroups. Standard two-dimensional (2D) echocardiography protocol, including M-mode, spectral, color and tissue Doppler study was performed. The main objectives were to: 1) characterize cardiac structure and function and its determinants among Hispanics and Hispanic subgroups; and 2) determine the contributions of specific psychosocial factors (acculturation and familismo) to cardiac structure and function among Hispanics.We describe the design, methods and rationale of currently the largest and most comprehensive study of cardiac structure and function exclusively among US Hispanics. ECHO-SOL aims to enhance our understanding of Hispanic cardiovascular health as well as help untangle the relative importance of Hispanic subgroup heterogeneity and sociocultural factors on cardiac structure and function.

Background: Abnormalities of cardiac structure and function are part of the spectrum of heart failure risk and progression. Acculturation is the process whereby an individual adopts the beliefs and practices of a host culture. Increasing acculturation has been associated with increased psychosocial stress and the adoption of deleterious health behaviors. The extent to which acculturation contributes to cardiovascular disease among Latinos is not well defined, and its association with cardiac structure and function in particular has not been studied among Latinos. Hypothesis: We hypothesized that higher acculturation is associated with worse left ventricular structure and function. Methods: The HCHS/SOL cohort included 16,415 Latino adults age 18-74 years from Cuban, Dominican, Mexican, Puerto Rican, Central American, and South American backgrounds. A random subsample of 1350 also underwent detailed echocardiographic assessment for the following primary outcome measures: left atrial volume index (LAVI), left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and LV ejection fraction (LVEF), LV end diastolic volume (LVEDV) and diastolic dysfunction (Grade 0 vs. Grade 1-3). Acculturation was measured by length of residence in the US categorized as (< 5 years, 5-10 years, >10 years). Chi-square and ANOVA were used to assess differences across acculturation level and dependent variables. Separate linear and logistic regression analyses were used with sequential modeling for age and sex followed by models including diabetes, hypertension, body mass index, tobacco use, and estimated glomerular filtration rate. Results: The mean age of the Echocardiographic Cohort was 56 years (S.D. ±0.5). Length of residence among first generation immigrants (n=1239) was as follows: 9.7% ≤ 5 years; 14.8% 5-10 years; and 75.5% ≥10 years. Fully adjusted models demonstrated abnormal cardiac structure was significantly higher with increasing years of US residence: increasing LAVI (1.6 ml/m 2 higher ≥10 years vs. ≤ 5 years), increasing LVEDV (5.6 ml higher ≥10 years vs. ≤ 5 years), and LVMI (4.9g/m 2 higher ≥10 years vs. ≤ 5 years) (p Conclusions: Among a diverse Latino population, higher acculturation defined as greater length of residence in the US, a proxy measure for acculturation, was associated with larger LA volume, larger LV cavity, higher LV mass and a tendency to higher prevalence of diastolic dysfunction independent of traditional risk factors. Acculturation may be a significant process that impacts cardiac structure and function among Latinos.

Little research has examined associations of social support with diabetes (or other physical health outcomes) in Hispanics, who are at elevated risk. We examined associations between social support and diabetes prevalence in the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos Sociocultural Ancillary Study. Participants were 5,181 adults, 18-74 years old, representing diverse Hispanic backgrounds, who underwent baseline exam with fasting blood draw, oral glucose tolerance test, medication review, sociodemographic assessment, and sociocultural exam with functional and structural social support measures. In adjusted analyses, one standard deviation higher structural and functional social support related to 16 and 15% lower odds, respectively, of having diabetes. Structural and functional support were related to both previously diagnosed diabetes (OR = .84 and .88, respectively) and newly recognized diabetes prevalence (OR = .84 and .83, respectively). Higher functional and structural social support are associated with lower diabetes prevalence in Hispanics/Latinos.

Social support is one potential source of health-related resiliency in Hispanics with diabetes. This study examined relationships of structural (i.e., social integration) and functional (i.e., perceived) social support with glycemic control (glycosylated hemoglobin; HbA1c) in the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos Sociocultural Ancillary Study. This study included 766 men and women representing multiple Hispanic ethnic backgrounds, aged 18-74 years, with diagnosed diabetes who completed fasting blood draw, medication review, and measures of sociodemographic factors, medical history, structural support (Cohen Social Network Index), and functional support (Interpersonal Support Evaluation List-12). After adjusting for sociodemographic covariates and medication, a one standard deviation increase in functional support was related to an 0.18% higher HbA1c (p = 0.04). A similar trend was observed for structural support; however, this effect was non-significant in adjusted models. Greater functional support was associated with poorer glycemic control in Hispanics.

Objective Because Hispanic ethnicity in the United States is heterogeneous, the purpose of this study was to determine the epidemiology of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) within U.S. Hispanic/Latino groups defined by national background. Methods This analysis included 9648 men and women older than 45 years enrolled in the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL). The ankle-brachial index (ABI) was computed as the higher of the posterior tibial and dorsalis pedis systolic blood pressures for each leg divided by the higher brachial artery systolic blood pressure. The index ABI was the higher of the two. An ABI ≤0.90 was the criterion for the presence of PAD. Results The mean age was 56 years, and 55% were female. Overall, the prevalence of an ABI ≤0.90 (PAD), 0.90 to 0.99 (borderline), 1.0 to 1.39 (normal), and ≥1.40 (high) was 5.7%, 19.3%, 72.5%, and 2.6%, respectively. After multivariable adjustment for PAD risk factors and compared with Mexicans, Cubans had a nearly threefold higher odds for PAD (odds ratio, 2.9; 95% confidence interval, 1.9-4.4). The odds of PAD for the other Hispanic/Latino groups ranged from 1.2 to 1.8. Although men had a more than threefold higher odds of an ABI ≥1.40 (3.6; 2.0-6.5), the odds did not differ significantly by Hispanic/Latino background. Conclusions Compared with Mexican Americans, all other Hispanic/Latino background groups have a significantly higher odds of having PAD, with the odds being nearly threefold higher among Cubans.

The cohort design allows investigators to explore the genetic basis of a variety of diseases and traits in a single study while avoiding major weaknesses of the case-control design. Most cohort studies employ multistage cluster sampling with unequal probabilities to conveniently select participants with desired characteristics, and participants from different clusters might be genetically related. Analysis that ignores the complex sampling design can yield biased estimation of the genetic association and inflation of the type I error. Herein, we develop weighted estimators that reflect unequal selection probabilities and differential nonresponse rates, and we derive variance estimators that properly account for the sampling design and the potential relatedness of participants in different sampling units. We compare, both analytically and numerically, the performance of the proposed weighted estimators with unweighted estimators that disregard the sampling design. We demonstrate the usefulness of the proposed methods through analysis of MetaboChip data in the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos, which is the largest health study of the Hispanic/Latino population in the United States aimed at identifying risk factors for various diseases and determining the role of genes and environment in the occurrence of diseases. We provide guidelines on the use of weighted and unweighted estimators, as well as the relevant software.

Aims To assess the relationship between regulated on activation, normal T-cell expressed and secreted (RANTES) and carotid atherosclerotic plaque burden and plaque characteristics. Methods and results Gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the carotid artery was performed in 1901 participants from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study. Wall thickness and volume, lipid-core volume, and fibrous cap thickness (by MRI) and plasma RANTES levels (by ELISA) were measured. Regression analysis was performed to study the associations between MRI variables and RANTES. Among 1769 inclusive participants, multivariable regression analysis revealed that total wall volume [beta-coefficient ( β ) = 0.09, P = 0.008], maximum wall thickness ( β = 0.08, P = 0.01), vessel wall area ( β = 0.07, P = 0.02), mean minimum fibrous cap thickness ( β = 0.11, P = 0.03), and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein ( β = 0.09, P = 0.01) were positively associated with RANTES. Total lipid-core volume showed positive association in unadjusted models ( β = 0.18, P = 0.02), but not in fully adjusted models ( β = 0.13, P = 0.09). RANTES levels were highest in Caucasian females followed by Caucasian males, African-American females, and African-American males ( P < 0.0001). Statin use attenuated the relationship between RANTES and measures of plaque burden. Conclusion Positive associations between RANTES and carotid wall thickness and lipid-core volume (in univariate analysis) suggest that higher RANTES levels may be associated with extent of carotid atherosclerosis and high-risk plaques. Associations between fibrous cap thickness and RANTES likely reflect the lower reliability estimate for fibrous cap measurements compared with wall volume or lipid-core volume measurements. Statin use may modify the association between RANTES and carotid atherosclerosis. Furthermore, RANTES levels vary by race.

Importance Hearing impairment is common in adults, but few studies have addressed it in the US Hispanic/Latino population. Objective To determine the prevalence of hearing impairment among US Hispanic/Latino adults of diverse backgrounds and determine associations with potential risk factors. Design, Setting, and Participants The Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL) is a population-based sample of Hispanics/Latinos in four US communities (Bronx, New York; Chicago, Illinois; Miami, Florida; and San Diego, California). Examinations were conducted from 2008 through 2011. The HCHS/SOL examined 16 415 self-identified Hispanic/Latino persons aged 18 to 74 years recruited from randomly selected households using a stratified 2-stage area probability sample design based on census block groups and households within block groups. Main Outcomes and Measures Hearing thresholds were measured by pure-tone audiometry. Hearing impairment was defined as a pure-tone average (PTA) of thresholds at 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 kHz greater than 25 dB hearing level. Bilateral hearing impairment required a PTA greater than 25 dB hearing level in both ears. Multivariable analyses included adjustments for sociodemographic and lifestyle variables, body mass index, and medical conditions. Results The prevalence of hearing impairment was 15.06% (SE, 0.44%) overall, and 8.24% (SE, 0.33%) had bilateral hearing impairment. The prevalence of hearing impairment was higher among people 45 years and older, ranging by Hispanic/Latino background from 29.35% to 41.20% among men and 17.89% to 32.11% among women. The multivariable-adjusted odds of hearing impairment was greater for participants of Puerto Rican background compared with Mexican background (odds ratio [OR], 1.57 [95% CI, 1.10-2.25]). The odds of hearing impairment were lower with more education (OR, 0.71 [95% CI, 0.59-0.86] for at least high school) and higher income (OR, 0.58 [95% CI, 0.36-0.92] for >$75 000 vs ≤$10 000). Noise exposure (OR, 1.35 [95% CI, 1.07-1.70]), diabetes (OR, 1.57 [95% CI, 1.27-1.94]), and prediabetes (OR, 1.37 [95% CI, 1.12-1.67]) were associated with hearing impairment. Conclusions and Relevance Hearing impairment is a common problem for older Hispanics/Latinos in these communities and is associated with socioeconomic factors, noise exposure, and abnormal glucose metabolism. Longitudinal studies are needed to determine whether these factors are involved in the etiology of hearing impairment and to identify ways to prevent or delay age-related changes in hearing.

Highlights • Hearing impairment was experienced by 59% of adults with diabetes. • Modifiable risk factors were smoking, high alcohol use and high triglycerides. • Lesser education and lower income were associated with hearing impairment. • Suboptimal glycemic control was not associated with hearing impairment., Aim The aim was to examine risk factors for hearing impairment among Hispanic/Latino adults with diabetes. Methods Findings are based on 3384 participants aged 18–76 years with diagnosed or previously undetected diabetes who completed audiometric testing as part of the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos. We defined hearing impairment as the pure-tone average (PTA) >25 decibels hearing level [dB HL] of pure-tone thresholds at high frequencies (3000, 4000, 6000, and 8000 Hz) in the worse ear and defined a second hearing impairment outcome with the additional requirement of PTA >25 dB HL of low/mid-frequency (500, 1000, and 2000 Hz) thresholds in the worse ear. We identified independent associations using logistic regression. Results Controlling for age and Hispanic/Latino background, prevalence ratios for hearing impairment in the high plus low/mid frequencies were 1.35 (95% CI 1.07, 1.71) for current smoking, 1.64 (1.14, 2.38) for alcohol consumption (≥14 drinks/week for men or ≥ 7 drinks/week for women), and 1.29 (1.06, 1.56) for triglycerides ≥ 150 mg/dL. For high-frequency only hearing impairment, the prevalence ratio for estimated glomerular filtration rate 30–59 mL/min/1.73 m2 was 1.23 (1.03, 1.47) adjusted for age and sex. People with family income less than $20,000 had almost twice the prevalence of hearing impairment (PR = 1.93 (1.34, 2.78)) as people with income over $40,000. Conclusions Current smoking, alcohol consumption, high triglycerides, and chronic kidney disease are potentially preventable correlates of hearing impairment for persons with diabetes. Low income is a marker of increased likelihood of hearing impairment.