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Lababidi H, Lababidi G, Rifai MA, Nasir K, Al-Kindi S. Cardiovascular disease in Arab Americans: A literature review of prevalence, risk factors, and directions for future research. Am J Prev Cardiol 2024; 18:100665. [PMID: 38634110 PMCID: PMC11021916 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpc.2024.100665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of mortality worldwide. Recent evidence suggests Arab Americans, individuals with ancestry from Arabic-speaking countries, have an elevated risk for CVD compared to other ethnicities in the US. However, research focusing specifically on CVD in this population is limited. This literature review synthesizes studies investigating CVD prevalence, risk factors, and outcomes in Arab Americans. Multiple studies found higher rates of coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, and hypertension compared to non-Hispanic White participants. The prevalence of type 2 diabetes, a major CVD risk factor, was also markedly higher, ranging from 16 % to 41 % in Arab Americans based on objective measures. Possible explanations include high rates of vitamin D deficiency, genetic factors, and poor diabetes control. Other metabolic factors like dyslipidemia and obesity did not consistently differ from general population estimates. Psychosocial factors may further increase CVD risk, including acculturative stress, discrimination, low health literacy, and barriers to healthcare access. Smoking, especially waterpipe use, was more prevalent in Arab American men. Though heterogenous, Arab Americans overall appear to have elevated CVD risk, warranting tailored screening and management. Culturally appropriate educational initiatives on CVD prevention are greatly needed. Future directions include better characterizing CVD prevalence across Arab American subgroups, delineating genetic and environmental factors underlying increased diabetes susceptibility, and testing culturally tailored interventions to mitigate CVD risks. In summary, this review highlights concerning CVD disparities in Arab Americans and underscores the need for group-specific research and preventive strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossam Lababidi
- Houston Methodist DeBakey Heart and Vascular Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, 6550 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030, United States
| | - Ghena Lababidi
- Medical program, American University of Beirut, United States
| | - Mahmoud Al Rifai
- Houston Methodist DeBakey Heart and Vascular Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, 6550 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030, United States
| | - Khurram Nasir
- Houston Methodist DeBakey Heart and Vascular Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, 6550 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030, United States
| | - Sadeer Al-Kindi
- Houston Methodist DeBakey Heart and Vascular Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, 6550 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030, United States
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Albdour M, DiMambro MR, Solberg MA, Jenuwine ES, Kurzer JAMJ, Hong JS. Association of adversities and mental health among first- and second-generation Arab American young adults. Res Nurs Health 2024; 47:208-219. [PMID: 37778014 DOI: 10.1002/nur.22340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of mental health problems among young adults is widely recognized. However, limited research has examined the mental health of Arab American young adults specifically. To address this gap in the literature, this study aimed to investigate the effects of multiple stressors including adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), discrimination, and bullying victimization on the mental health of first- and second-generation Arab American young adults. The participants (N = 162) were recruited from a Midwest university using online and in-person methods. They were screened and completed a demographic questionnaire and self-report measures of ACEs, discrimination, bullying victimization, and mental health. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis was conducted to examine the effect of psychosocial stressors on mental health and the moderating effect of generation (first vs. second) on that relationship. Female gender, increased perceived discrimination, and more ACEs were associated with lower mental health scores (β = -0.316, p < 0.001, β = -0.308, p < 0.001, and β = -0.230, p = 0.002, respectively). There was a significant negative relationship between victimization and mental health for first-generation Arab Americans (β = -0.356, p = 0.010). However, that association all but disappeared for second-generation participants (β = 0.006, p = 0.953). The results highlight the impact of multiple adversities on Arab American young adults' mental health and indicate important nuances related to their generation in the association between bullying victimization and mental health. Implications for practice and future research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maha Albdour
- College of Nursing, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | | | - Marvin A Solberg
- College of Nursing, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | | | | | - Jun Sung Hong
- School of Social Work, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Department of Social Welfare, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, South Korea
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Kindratt TB. Improving the Collection of National Health Data: the Case for the Middle Eastern and North African Checkbox for Communities in the USA. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2023:10.1007/s40615-023-01759-3. [PMID: 37584808 PMCID: PMC10869635 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-023-01759-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) is reviewing current minimum standards for collecting race/ethnicity data on federal forms. This review is extremely important for Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) Americans, who have been overlooked and unable to receive federal funding for their communities for decades. MENA individuals are defined as "White," which is particularly concerning given that research continues to identify that their health and lived experiences differ from Whites. From January to April 2023, the OMB requested public comments on a separate MENA checkbox. The purpose of this research was to describe public comments regarding the addition of the MENA checkbox on the US Census and other federal forms. METHODS A public comment period outlining changes to the collection of race/ethnicity data on the US Census and other federal forms opened in January 2023. Public comments were reviewed to determine whether MENA was mentioned, whether comments supported a MENA checkbox, and whether comments mentioned acceptance for health-related reasons. RESULTS There were 6700 comments reviewed. Most (73.88%) mentioned adding a MENA checkbox. Of those, 99.31% accepted adding the checkbox. Among the comments that accepted adding a MENA checkbox, 29.09% mentioned health, 44.75% mentioned linguistic/language services, and 44.75% mentioned education-related reasons. CONCLUSIONS Overall, the comments reviewed demonstrated strong acceptance of the addition of a MENA checkbox on federal forms. These findings are encouraging, yet further review is needed to contribute to the OMB's final decision on whether to add the checkbox and uncover the health of this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany B Kindratt
- Public Health Program, Department of Kinesiology, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, 76019-0259, USA.
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Kindratt TB. Improving the Collection of National Health Data: The Case for the Middle Eastern and North African Checkbox in the United States. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-2790994. [PMID: 37131750 PMCID: PMC10153379 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2790994/v2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Objectives To describe public comments posted in relation to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Statistical Policy Directive 15 proposals regarding the addition of a separate Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) checkbox on the US Census and other required federal forms. Methods A public comment period outlining changes to the collection of race and ethnicity data on the US Census and other federal forms opened in January 2023. Public comments posted in February and March 2023 were reviewed to determine whether MENA was mentioned, whether comments supported a MENA checkbox, and whether comments mentioned support for health-related reasons. Results There were 3,062 comments reviewed. Most (71.49%) mentioned adding a MENA checkbox. Of those, 98.86% supported adding a MENA checkbox. Among those, 31.98% mentioned adding a MENA checkbox for health-related reasons. Conclusions Overall, the comments reviewed demonstrated strong support for the addition of a MENA checkbox on federal forms. These findings are encouraging yet further review is needed to contribute to the OMB’s final decision on whether to add the checkbox and uncover the health of this underrepresented population.
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The Disproportionate Burden of COVID-19 Cases among Arab Americans. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2022; 10:1108-1114. [PMID: 35394622 PMCID: PMC8992413 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-022-01298-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Racial and ethnic disparities in COVID-19 cases are pervasive. Some minority, immigrant, and marginalized groups, such as Arab Americans, have been excluded from the research. This population confronts barriers to health care, discrimination, and other factors that may affect understanding, testing, and treatment as it relates to COVID-19. Arab Americans are unique compared to Hispanic, non-Hispanic black, and Asians because Arab Americans do not have a specific ethnic identifier and are classified as non-Hispanic white. Given these issues, this study will estimate COVID-19 cases and examine associations among Arab Americans compared to Hispanic, non-Hispanic black, non-Hispanic white, and Asian adults. Data from the Michigan Disease Surveillance System (March 2020-July 2021), the American Community Survey (2015-2019), and an Arab/Chaldean surname algorithm were used. Chi-square tests were used to determine statistically significant differences between groups. Logistic regression was used to estimate age-adjusted and sex-stratified proportions among Arab Americans compared to non-Hispanic whites before and after adjusting for age and sex. Approximately 17% of Arab Americans tested positive for COVID-19 compared to 11.32% of Hispanics, 9.80% of non-Hispanic blacks, 7.50% of non-Hispanic whites, and 4.24% of Asians. Arab Americans had 2.63 (95% CI: 2.59, 2.66) times greater odds of testing positive for COVID-19 compared to non-Hispanic whites. When Arab Americans were disaggregated from non-Hispanic whites, alarming patterns in COVID-19 cases were observed for Arab Americans. To accurately represent the burden of COVID-19 among Arab Americans, this population needs to have an ethnic identifier that informs appropriate health policy decisions and practice.
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Yaldo LM, Dallo FJ, Ruterbusch J, Schwartz K, Jamil HJ. The Burden of and Factors Associated with Age-Related Eye Diseases in Arab American Adults. J Immigr Minor Health 2021; 24:1095-1102. [PMID: 34559345 DOI: 10.1007/s10903-021-01279-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
To estimate the age- and sex-adjusted proportions of cataract, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and macular degeneration among the Arab American community, a notably understudied minority that is aggregated under whites. The Arab American Eye Study is a multicenter retrospective chart review involving 10 years of electronic medical records (1/1/2010 through 1/1/2020). The study sample included 1390 Arab Americans and 4950 whites 45 years of age and older, totaling 6340 subjects. Arab Americans were identified using an Arab American name algorithm. Subjects with race variables other than white or Arab American or those under age 45 were excluded from the study. Age- and sex-adjusted proportions of cataract, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and macular degeneration were determined. Odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were used to examine the association between race/ethnicity and eye diseases. Of the 6340 participants (4950 whites and 1390 Arab Americans), males comprised 46.3% and the median age group was 55-64 years. Arab Americans displayed higher age- and sex-adjusted proportions of cataracts (45.4% versus 40.7%), dry age-related macular degeneration (10% versus 8.9%), glaucoma (8% vs 6%), and diabetic retinopathy (11.7% versus 4.2%). Fully adjusted logistic regression revealed that Arab Americans were 19% more likely to have cataracts (OR 1.19; 95% CI 1.05, 1.35) and 272% more likely to have diabetic retinopathy (OR 2.72; 95% CI 2.17; 3.41). Results from the Arab American Eye Study suggest that the burden of cataract and diabetic retinopathy is significantly higher among Arab Americans in comparison to whites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke M Yaldo
- School of Health Sciences, Oakland University, 3114 Human Health Building, Rochester, MI, 48309, USA.
| | - Florence J Dallo
- School of Health Sciences, Oakland University, 3114 Human Health Building, Rochester, MI, 48309, USA
| | - Julie Ruterbusch
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Kendra Schwartz
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Hikmet J Jamil
- Department of Family Medicine, Michigan State University, Michigan, USA
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Perspectives of multisectoral community stakeholders on Arab American cancer patients' needs and suggested interventions. Support Care Cancer 2021; 29:5915-5925. [PMID: 33763724 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-021-06169-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multilevel barriers can arise after a cancer diagnosis, especially in underserved racial/ethnic minority patient populations, raising the need for diverse and contextually adapted interventions. However, limited data exists on Arab American (ArA) cancer patients' needs, partly due to their racial/ethnic misclassification as Whites. This study leveraged the perspectives of cancer survivors and community stakeholders (i.e., healthcare and community leaders) to identify ArA cancer patients' needs, as well as their preferred intervention strategies to address them. METHODS Using a hybrid inductive-deductive content analysis approach, we analyzed qualitative data from interviews with 18 ArA community stakeholders recruited through community partners in Chicago. RESULTS Participants associated cancer stigma to ArA patients' concealment of their diagnosis and aversion to cancer support groups. Economic and language barriers to treatment were emphasized. A lack of resources for ArA cancer patients was also noted and was partly attributed to their misclassification as White. In response to these needs, participants suggested peer mentorship programs to overcome privacy concerns, hospital-based patient navigation to address language and economic barriers in healthcare, diversification of the healthcare workforce to overcome language barriers, and community coalitions to recognize ArA as an ethnic group and increase cancer support resources. Such advocacy will be essential to accurately characterize patients' cancer burden and obtain funding to support community programs and resources. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that multilevel interventions at the patient, healthcare, and community levels are needed to address ArA cancer patients' needs.
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Diabetes Management Among Arab Americans Who Sought Care at a Large Metropolitan Hospital System in Michigan. J Immigr Minor Health 2019; 21:490-496. [PMID: 29943204 DOI: 10.1007/s10903-018-0777-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
To estimate and compare the management of diabetes among Arab, Asian, non-Hispanic Black, and non-Hispanic Whites attending a large health system in metropolitan Detroit. Data were electronically abstracted for 6622 adult patients with diabetes. Dependent variables were uptake of A1c testing and results, LDL-C testing and results, and eye examination frequency. The independent variable was race/ethnicity. Logistic regression models were used to examine the association between Arab Americans and non-Hispanic Whites for each of the dependent variables while controlling for confounders. Arab Americans were 38% more likely than non-Hispanic Whites to report an A1c > 7% (OR 1.38; 95% CI 1.03, 1.87). Arab Americans were 62% less likely to receive an eye exam compared to non-Hispanic Whites (OR 1.62; 95% CI 1.21, 2.17). Population based studies about diabetes management among Arab Americans will facilitate tailored interventions aimed at preventing/delaying diabetes complications and reducing premature mortality due to diabetes.
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Alkaid Albqoor M, Chen J, Weiss S, Waters C, Choi J. Systematic review: Self‐rated health of Arab immigrants in the United States. Public Health Nurs 2019; 36:623-630. [DOI: 10.1111/phn.12640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Revised: 06/16/2019] [Accepted: 06/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jyu‐Lin Chen
- Family Health Care Nursing University of California San Francisco San Francisco California
| | - Sandra Weiss
- Community Health Systems University of California San Francisco San Francisco California
| | - Catherine Waters
- Community Health Systems University of California San Francisco San Francisco California
| | - Jiwon Choi
- Institute for Health & Aging University of California San Francisco San Francisco California
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Campbell-Voytal KD, Schwartz KL, Hamade H, Dallo FJ, Neale AV. Attitudes towards health research participation: a qualitative study of US Arabs and Chaldeans. Fam Pract 2019; 36:325-331. [PMID: 30239688 PMCID: PMC6769398 DOI: 10.1093/fampra/cmy071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Arab Muslim and Chaldean Christian American community is unified by language but culturally diverse. Researchers are challenged to engage the Arab/Chaldean community to meet immigrant health needs. Arabs/Chaldeans are identified as white in clinical data sets making it difficult to identify health behaviours and patterns unique to the community. OBJECTIVES To explore the views of members of the Arab/Chaldean community, including researchers and the lay public, regarding health research participation and the role of clinicians, researchers and community leaders in the research process. METHODS A qualitative study of Arab and Chaldean adults and researchers conducted in a US community with a large Arab/Chaldean population. Five semi-structured focus group discussions were triangulated with five in-depth semi-structured interviews with Arab or Chaldean primary care researchers. Responses were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were coded and thematically analysed, and findings confirmed with community representatives. RESULTS Three themes were identified: (i) research expectations: risks and benefits; (ii) health care environment: clinicians as recruiters and (iii) research participations: risks and benefits. Themes captured concerns with social relationships, reputation or trust and the cost and benefit of research participation. In the Arab/Chaldean community, institutional and political fears and distrust are amplified. Respect for physicians, teachers and faith leaders connected with or recruiting for studies enhances likelihood of research participation. CONCLUSION Clinical researchers should address the cultural and immigration histories of Arab/Chaldean research participants. Studies that maximize trust will minimize participation bias and lay the groundwork for improved health. Institutional, sociocultural and personal factors require a pre-study phase to engage and educate participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly D Campbell-Voytal
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health Sciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Kendra L Schwartz
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health Sciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Hiam Hamade
- Community Health and Research Center, Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services, Dearborn, MI, USA
| | - Florence J Dallo
- Department of Public and Environmental Wellness, Oakland University School of Health Sciences, Rochester, MI, USA
| | - Anne Victoria Neale
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health Sciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
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Dallo FJ, Prabhakar D, Ruterbusch J, Schwartz K, Peterson EL, Liu B, Ahmedani BK. Screening and follow-up for depression among Arab Americans. Depress Anxiety 2018; 35:1198-1206. [PMID: 30099819 DOI: 10.1002/da.22817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2017] [Revised: 05/15/2018] [Accepted: 07/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The authors compared proportions and associations of depression screening, major depression, and follow-up care of Arab Americans compared to non-Hispanic whites, non-Hispanic blacks, Asians, and Hispanics. METHODS Administrative data was electronically abstracted from a large health system in metropolitan Detroit among 97,918 adult patients in 2014 and 2015. A valid and reliable surname list was used to identify Arab Americans. Using chi-squares, we examined the relationship between race/ethnicity and depression screening, major depression, and follow-up care. We calculated odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) to examine the relationship between the main independent variable of race/ethnicity and the dependent variables of depression screening and major depression while controlling for confounders. RESULTS Arab American women were 23% less likely to be screened for depression compared to non-Hispanic white women (OR = 0.77; 95% CI = 0.70, 0.86). The age- and sex-adjusted proportions of major depression were 5.5% for Arab Americans compared to 7.0% for Hispanics, 6.0% for non-Hispanic blacks, 5.9% for non-Hispanic whites, and 1.5% for Asians. Arab Americans with major depression were less likely to follow up with a behavioral specialist and more likely to follow up with a primary care physician compared to other racial and ethnic groups. CONCLUSIONS Our study adds to the discourse on depression care among Arab Americans by highlighting the existing disparities related to adequate screening and appropriate management of depression. Future studies should include information about the influences of acculturation, culture, stigma, family, and religion on depression care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florence J Dallo
- Public and Environmental Wellness, Oakland University, Rochester, Michigan
| | - Deepak Prabhakar
- Behavioral Health Services, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Julie Ruterbusch
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Kendra Schwartz
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan
| | | | - Bin Liu
- Public Health Sciences, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Brian K Ahmedani
- Behavioral Health Services, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan.,Center for Health Policy and Health Services Research, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan
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Abuelezam NN, El-Sayed AM, Galea S. The Health of Arab Americans in the United States: An Updated Comprehensive Literature Review. Front Public Health 2018; 6:262. [PMID: 30255009 PMCID: PMC6141804 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2018.00262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Accepted: 08/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Arab Americans are a historically understudied minority group in the United States and their health needs and risks have been poorly documented. We aim to provide an updated comprehensive review of the literature on Arab American physical and mental health and provide suggestions for future work in this field. Methods: A comprehensive review of the English language medical and public health literature published prior to 2017 identified through multiple database searches was conducted with search terms describing Arab Americans and health outcomes and behaviors. The literature was qualitatively summarized by health behavior (vaccination, tobacco use, drug and alcohol use, and physical activity), health outcome (diabetes, mental health, cardiovascular disease, cancer, women's, and child health), and populations at increased risk of poor health outcomes (adolescents and the elderly). Results: The majority of studies identified exploring Arab American health have been published since 2009 with an increase in the number of longitudinal and intervention studies done with this population. The majority of research is being undertaken among individuals living in ethnic enclaves due to the lack of an ethnic or racial identifier that may help identify Arab Americans from population-based studies. Studies highlight the conflicting evidence in the prevalence of diabetes and cardiovascular disease based on study sample, an increased understanding of cancer incidence and barriers to identification, and an increased level of knowledge regarding mental health and sexual health needs in the population. Information on health behaviors has also increased, with a better understanding of physical activity, alcohol and drug use, and vaccination. Conclusion: More research on Arab American health is needed to identify risks and needs of this marginalized population given the current social and political climate in the United States, especially with regard to acculturation status and immigrant generation status. We provide recommendations on approaches that may help improve our understanding of Arab American health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia N Abuelezam
- Boston College, William F. Connell School of Nursing, Chestnut Hill, MA, United States
| | | | - Sandro Galea
- School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
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A Health Profile of Arab Americans in Michigan: A Novel Approach to Using a Hospital Administrative Database. J Immigr Minor Health 2018; 18:1449-1454. [PMID: 26472547 DOI: 10.1007/s10903-015-0296-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The objectives of this study were to estimate and compare the prevalence of heart disease, cancer, chronic lower respiratory disease, stroke, Alzheimer's, diabetes, nephrosis, flu/pneumonia, hypertension, and atherosclerosis between Arab Americans and whites attending a large, metropolitan hospital system. The sample included 68,047 patients, 18 years of age or older, who visited the hospital during 2012. Demographic and disease variables were electronically abstracted. Demographic characteristics were compared between Arab Americans and whites using Chi square tests. Sex specific, age-adjusted prevalence ratios (PR) and 95 % confidence intervals were estimated for these two groups using a log-binomial regression model. Compared to white men, Arab American men had a higher prevalence of diabetes (PR 1.40, 95 % CI 1.29-1.52) and hypertension (PR 1.07, 95 % CI 1.04-1.10), and a lower prevalence of chronic lower respiratory disease (PR 0.74, 95 % CI 0.66-0.83). Compared to white women, Arab American women had a higher prevalence of chronic lower respiratory disease (PR 1.12, 95 % CI 1.01-1.25), diabetes (PR 1.49, 95 % CI 1.38-1.60), influenza/pneumonia (PR 1.26, 95 % CI 1.05-1.51) and hypertension (PR 1.04, 95 % CI 1.01-1.08). This study supports previous findings that health disparities exist for Arab Americans, who are classified as "white" in health statistics. Standard inclusion of Arab American as a separate ethnicity category will aid researchers in assessing the health care needs of this growing minority community.
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Effectiveness of a Culturally-Tailored Smoking Cessation Intervention for Arab-American Men. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2017; 14:ijerph14040411. [PMID: 28406462 PMCID: PMC5409612 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph14040411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2017] [Revised: 04/07/2017] [Accepted: 04/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
To date, no smoking cessation programs are available for Arab American (ARA) men, who are a vulnerable population with high rates of smoking. Thus, the primary aim of this one group pre-test/post-test study was to assess the effectiveness of Sehatack—a culturally and linguistically tailored smoking cessation program for ARA men. The study sample was 79 ARA men with a mean age of 43 years who smoked between 5 and 40 cigarettes (mean = 19.75, SD = 9.1) per day (98.7%). All of the participants reported more interest in smoking cessation post-intervention and many of the participants in the baseline (38.5%) and post-intervention phases (47.7%) wanted to quit smoking ”very much”. For daily smokers who completed the smoking cessation program, the median number of cigarettes smoked daily was significantly lower than those in the post-intervention phase (Z = −6.915, p < 0.001). Results of this preliminary study indicate that: (a) Sehatack may be a promising way for ARA men to quit smoking, and (b) culturally relevant smoking cessation counselors can be trained to recruit and retain ARA smokers in an intensive group smoking cessation program. Strengths of this study were community engagement and rapport between three faith organizations and the University of Florida College of Nursing. However, a larger trial is needed to address study limitations and to confirm benefits in this population.
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Mantey J, Ruterbusch J, Meza R, Schwartz K. Cancer incidence trends using American Community Survey estimates are not consistent with SEER for small populations. Cancer Epidemiol 2016; 43:87-91. [PMID: 27420630 DOI: 10.1016/j.canep.2016.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2016] [Revised: 06/20/2016] [Accepted: 06/29/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND American Community Survey (ACS) estimates are said to be uncertain for small areas and small population groups. The Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database uses a decennial census extrapolation methodology to yield population estimates used by cancer researchers across the country. We compared metropolitan Detroit cancer incidence estimates calculated using ACS data to those using SEER population estimates, which we considered to be the gold standard. METHODS We generated age-adjusted cancer incidence rate estimates for 1-year, 3-year and 5-year time periods (2005-2010) using SEER and ACS population estimates for four racial/ethnic groups by sex and cancer type for residents in the tri-county Detroit area. We calculated incidence rate ratios (IRRs) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs), and compared trends. RESULTS While the IRRs were rarely significant, there were significant differences in incidence rate estimates for Hispanic males. Additionally, interpretation of trends varied by the estimate source: the ACS-based lung cancer incidence rate estimate for Hispanic females increased from 70.59 (95% CI 44.85, 110.67) to 86.13 (95% CI 54.83, 132.44) per 100,000 women from 2007 to 2010, while the SEER incidence rate estimate decreased from 80.76 (95% CI 53.36, 119.24) to 73.54 (95% CI 49.24, 106.62). CONCLUSIONS Inconsistencies were found when comparing incidence rate estimates for small population groups using the two population estimate sources. This finding has potential implications for health disparities research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Mantey
- Deparment of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States.
| | - Julie Ruterbusch
- Department of Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine and Karmanos Cancer Institute, Detroit, MI 48201, United States
| | - Rafael Meza
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Kendra Schwartz
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health Sciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, United States
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Dallo FJ, Kindratt TB. Disparities in Chronic Disease Prevalence Among Non-Hispanic Whites: Heterogeneity Among Foreign-Born Arab and European Americans. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2015; 3:590-598. [PMID: 27294751 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-015-0178-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2015] [Revised: 09/28/2015] [Accepted: 10/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
We estimated and compared the sex- and age-adjusted prevalence of chronic diseases (diagnosis only and comorbidity) among US- and foreign-born whites from Europe and the Arab Nations and examined associations between region of birth and chronic disease. We evaluated 213,644 adults using restricted data from the National Health Interview Survey (2000-2011) by (1) chronic disease diagnosis only (heart disease, asthma, cancer, diabetes, ulcer, or obesity) and (2) comorbidity (none, diagnosis only, comorbid). We used logistic regression to examine associations between region of birth and chronic disease while controlling for confounders. Foreign-born whites from the Arab Nations had a higher prevalence of being diagnosed with ulcer (4 %) compared to US- and European-born whites (2 %). Foreign-born whites from the Arab Nations had a lower prevalence of comorbid cancer (1 %) and ulcer (3 %) yet had higher estimates of comorbid heart disease (18 %), asthma (5 %), and obesity (13 %) when compared to European-born whites (all ps < 0.05). Arab Americans had the highest prevalence of comorbid diabetes (8 %) compared to both European- (5 %) and US-born whites (6 %). In multivariate logistic regression models, Arab Americans had a lower odds of reporting cancer, heart disease, and asthma before and after controlling for covariates. Our study builds on existing literature for Arab Americans as the first study evaluating chronic disease prevalence among foreign-born whites from countries in the Arab League of Nations geographically located in the Middle East. Methodologically robust studies are needed to better understand the influence of acculturation, country of origin, and other characteristics influencing health among foreign-born whites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florence J Dallo
- Wellness, Health Promotion and Injury Prevention, Oakland University, 3148 Human Health Building, Rochester, MI, 48309-4428, USA.
| | - Tiffany B Kindratt
- Department of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 6011 Harry Hines Blvd., Suite V4.114, Dallas, TX, 75390-9090, USA
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Housey M, DeGuire P, Lyon-Callo S, Wang L, Marder W, McCune WJ, Helmick CG, Gordon C, Dhar JP, Leisen J, Somers EC. Incidence and prevalence of systemic lupus erythematosus among Arab and Chaldean Americans in southeastern Michigan: the Michigan Lupus Epidemiology and Surveillance Program. Am J Public Health 2015; 105:e74-9. [PMID: 25790387 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2014.302423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We assessed the burden of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) among Arab and Chaldean Americans residing in southeast Michigan. METHODS For those meeting SLE criteria from the Michigan Lupus Epidemiology and Surveillance Registry, we determined Arab or Chaldean ethnicity by links with demographic data from birth certificates and with a database of Arab and Chaldean names. We compared prevalence and incidence of SLE for Arab and Chaldean Americans with estimates for non-Arab and non-Chaldean American Whites and Blacks. RESULTS We classified 54 individuals with SLE as Arab and Chaldean Americans. The age-adjusted incidence and prevalence estimates for Arab and Chaldean Americans were 7.6 and 62.6 per 100 000, respectively. Arab and Chaldean Americans had a 2.1-fold excess SLE incidence compared with non-Arab and non-Chaldean American Whites. Arab and Chaldean American women had both significantly higher incidence rates (5.0-fold increase) and prevalence estimates (7.4-fold increase) than did Arab and Chaldean American men. CONCLUSIONS Recognizing that Arab and Chaldean Americans experience different disease burdens from Whites is a first step toward earlier diagnosis and designing targeted interventions. Better methods of assigning ethnicity would improve research in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Housey
- Michelle Housey, Peter DeGuire, and Sarah Lyon-Callo are with the Michigan Department of Community Health, Lansing. Lu Wang is with the Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Wendy Marder, W. Joseph McCune, and Emily C. Somers are with the Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Charles G. Helmick is with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA. Caroline Gordon is with the University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK. J. Patricia Dhar is with the Central Michigan University College of Medicine, Mount Pleasant. James Leisen is with the Henry Ford Health System, Division of Rheumatology, Detroit, MI
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Clinical profile, quality of care, and recurrence in Arab-American and Caucasians prostate cancer patients in Michigan. J Immigr Minor Health 2014; 15:803-9. [PMID: 22763459 DOI: 10.1007/s10903-012-9662-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in the United States with striking differences in incidence and mortality among ethnic groups. Michigan has one of the largest concentrations of Arab Americans (AAs) in the U.S. and little is known about this ethnic minority with respect to prostate cancer. This study investigated differences in clinical profile, quality of care, and recurrence among prostate cancer survivors comparing AAs and Caucasian Americans (CAs). Participants in this study included 2499 prostate cancer survivors from the Michigan Cancer Registry from 1985 to 2004. Participants completed surveys regarding health-seeking behavior, post-treatment symptoms, quality of care and recurrence. Ethnicity was self-reported and AAs and CAs were compared with respect to clinical profile, quality of care, and recurrence. There were 52 AAs and 1886 CAs patients with AAs being younger ([Formula: see text] age 68.3 ± SD 21.4 years, [Formula: see text] age 72.3 ± SD 14.1 years, for AAs and CAs, respectively) (P = 0.05). AAs had lower socioeconomic standard than CAs (34 vs. 10.6 %, <$20,000 yearly income/year; for AAs vs. CAs, respectively) (P < 0.0001). AAs reported poorer health than AAs (7.7 vs. 3.0 % for AAs vs. CAs, respectively) (P < 0.0001). AAs were more likely to visit specialists for prostate follow-up (44.5 vs. 19.7 % visited a specialist, for AAs vs. CAs respectively) (P < 0.0001) and received supplementary healthcare workers (13 % of AAs vs. 3.1 % CAs) (P = 0.032). In addition, AAs reported higher occurrence of urinary incontinence compared to CAs (67.4 vs. 60.4 %, for AAs vs. CAs, respectively) (P = 0.001). Ethnic background was not a predictor of recurrence [(Odds ratio (OR) = 1.1 (95 % confidence intervals CI = 0.40, 2.9)] (P = 0.873) even after adjusting for age, PSA levels within the last 2 years, metastasis and hormonal therapy. While AAs prostate cancer patients were different from CAs in age, income, seeking medical care, and health reporting, ethnic background was not a predictor of recurrence. Future studies of the impact of socioeconomic, demographic and cultural factors, and health care seeking behavior on long-term survival of prostate cancer in AAs and other ethnic minorities are warranted.
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Williams DR. Miles to go before we sleep: racial inequities in health. JOURNAL OF HEALTH AND SOCIAL BEHAVIOR 2012; 53:279-95. [PMID: 22940811 PMCID: PMC3712789 DOI: 10.1177/0022146512455804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 294] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Large, pervasive, and persistent racial inequalities exist in the onset, courses, and outcomes of illness. A comprehensive understanding of the patterning of racial disparities indicates that racism in both its institutional and individual forms remains an important determinant. There is an urgent need to build the science base that would identify how to trigger the conditions that would facilitate needed societal change and to identify the optimal interventions that would confront and dismantle the societal conditions that create and sustain health inequalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- David R Williams
- Department of Society, Human Development and Health, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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El-Sayed AM, Tracy M, Scarborough P, Galea S. Ethnic inequalities in mortality: the case of Arab-Americans. PLoS One 2011; 6:e29185. [PMID: 22216204 PMCID: PMC3247248 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0029185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2011] [Accepted: 11/22/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although nearly 112 million residents of the United States belong to a non-white ethnic group, the literature about differences in health indicators across ethnic groups is limited almost exclusively to Hispanics. Features of the social experience of many ethnic groups including immigration, discrimination, and acculturation may plausibly influence mortality risk. We explored life expectancy and age-adjusted mortality risk of Arab-Americans (AAs), relative to non-Arab and non-Hispanic Whites in Michigan, the state with the largest per capita population of AAs in the US. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Data were collected about all deaths to AAs and non-Arab and non-Hispanic Whites in Michigan between 1990 and 2007, and year 2000 census data were collected for population denominators. We calculated life expectancy, age-adjusted all-cause, cause-specific, and age-specific mortality rates stratified by ethnicity and gender among AAs and non-Arab and non-Hispanic Whites. Among AAs, life expectancies among men and women were 2.0 and 1.4 years lower than among non-Arab and non-Hispanic White men and women, respectively. AA men had higher mortality than non-Arab and non-Hispanic White men due to infectious diseases, chronic diseases, and homicide. AA women had higher mortality than non-Arab and non-Hispanic White women due to chronic diseases. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Despite better education and higher income, AAs have higher age-adjusted mortality risk than non-Arab and non-Hispanic Whites, particularly due to chronic diseases. Features specific to AA culture may explain some of these findings.
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