The Effects of Gender and Country of origin On acculturation, Psychological Factors, Lifestyle Factors, and Diabetes-Related Physiological Outcomes among Mexican americans: the Starr County Diabetes Prevention initiative

Authors

Sharon A Brown
Heather A Becker
Alexandra A García
Mary M Velasquez
Hirofumi Tanaka
Mary A Winter
William B Perkison
Eric L Brown
David Aguilar
Craig L Hanis

Publication Date

6-1-2023

Journal

Chronic Illness

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: Examine acculturation and psychological, lifestyle, and physiological factors based on gender and country of origin (U.S. vs. Mexico).

METHODS: Baseline data from the Starr County diabetes prevention study (

RESULTS: Participants were: predominantly female (73%); 51 years of age, on average; born in Mexico (71%); and Spanish-speaking. Individuals spent 11 of their waking hours (range = 0-18 h) in sedentary activities. Compared to females, more males spoke English and reported fewer hours in sedentary activities. Compared to participants born in Mexico, those born in the U.S. were more likely to: speak English; report depressive symptoms; and exhibit elevated BMI and insulin resistance rates. Two distinct models significantly predicted

DISCUSSION: Significant gender and country-of-origin differences were found. Future research on diabetes prevention should examine other Hispanic subgroups and strategies for addressing individual differences, while employing cost-effective group interventions that incorporate these differences and reach more at-risk individuals.

Keywords

Male, Humans, Female, Mexican Americans, Acculturation, Insulin Resistance, Diabetes Mellitus, Life Style