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Wagner JA, Bermúdez-Millán A, Buckley TE, Buxton OM, Feinn RS, Kong S, Kuoch T, Scully MF. Community-based diabetes prevention randomized controlled trial in refugees with depression: effects on metabolic outcomes and depression. Sci Rep 2023; 13:8718. [PMID: 37253820 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-35738-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Depression and antidepressant medications increase risk for type 2 diabetes. Cambodian-Americans have exceedingly high rates of both depression and diabetes. This paper reports outcomes of a diabetes prevention trial for Cambodian-Americans with depression. Primary outcomes were HbA1c, insulin resistance and depressive symptoms. Participants were aged 35-75, Khmer speaking, at risk for diabetes, and met study criteria for likely depression by either (a) antidepressant medication and/or (b) prolonged elevated depressive symptoms. Participants were randomized to one of three community health worker (CHW) interventions: (1) lifestyle intervention called Eat, Walk, Sleep (EWS), (2) EWS plus medication therapy management sessions with a pharmacist/CHW team to resolve drug therapy problems (EWS + MTM), or, (3) social services (SS; control). Assessments were at baseline, post-treatment (12 months), and follow-up (15 months). The n = 188 participants were 78% female, average age of 55 years, half had a household income < $20,000, and modal educational attainment was 7.0 years. Compared to the other arms, EWS + MTM showed a significant decrease in HbA1c and a trend for reduced inflammation and stress hormones. Depressive symptoms improved for EWS and EWS + MTM relative to SS. There was no change in insulin resistance. Cardiometabolic and mental health can be improved in tandem among immigrant and refugee groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie A Wagner
- University of Connecticut Schools of Medicine and Dental Medicine, UConn Health, 263 Farmington Ave., Farmington, CT, 06030, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | - Sengly Kong
- Khmer Health Advocates, West Hartford, CT, USA
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Cimino SR, Cadel L, Guilcher SJT, Wasilewski M, Hitzig SL. Social disconnectedness and perceived social isolation in persons with spinal cord injury/dysfunction living in the community: A scoping review. J Spinal Cord Med 2023; 46:367-389. [PMID: 36269865 PMCID: PMC10116929 DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2022.2129170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Context: Persons with spinal cord injury/dysfunction (SCI/D) are particularly at risk for social disconnectedness and/or perceived social isolation, which are key components to overall well-being. However, there is limited evidence that aims to understand these phenomena in this population.Objective: To investigate what is known about social disconnectedness and perceived social isolation for adults with SCI/D living in the community.Methods: A scoping review was conducted. A computer assisted search of four online databases was completed on all articles published until May 18th, 2021. Gray literature and key agencies were also searched for relevant documents. Two key concepts (spinal cord injury/dysfunction and social disconnectedness/perceived social isolation) and associated terms were used. All articles were double screened for inclusion by two reviewers.Results: Following deduplication, title and abstract screening and full-text screening, 37 articles met the criteria for inclusion in this review. Most of the included articles were published in North America, used quantitative methods and a cross-sectional design. Articles identified several factors that influenced social disconnectedness and perceived social isolation including participant characteristics, social support, psychological well-being, participation in activities, the built environment and physical health.Conclusion: The current literature suggests that issues with social disconnectedness and perceived social isolation exist for persons living with SCI/D in the community. More work is needed to better understand the relationship between these constructs. A more nuanced understanding can inform targeted interventions to help mitigate the impact of these phenomena on the SCI/D population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie R. Cimino
- Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lauren Cadel
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sara J. T. Guilcher
- Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Physical Therapy, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Marina Wasilewski
- Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- St. John’s Rehab Research Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Occupational Science & Occupational Therapy, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sander L. Hitzig
- Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- St. John’s Rehab Research Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Occupational Science & Occupational Therapy, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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A Systematic Review of Evidence-Based Family Interventions for Trauma-Affected Refugees. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19159361. [PMID: 35954717 PMCID: PMC9367780 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19159361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Family connections are crucial for trauma-affected refugees from collectivistic cultures. Evidence-based family interventions are consistently promoted to support a host of mental and relational health needs of families exposed to traumatic stressors; however, there is still limited research focused on cultural adaptation and the testing of the effectiveness of these interventions on some of the most disenfranchised populations in the aftermath of forced displacement. This systematic review was conducted to examine the reach of existing evidence-based family interventions implemented with newly resettled refugees globally. Studies included in this review include those testing the effectiveness of a systemic treatment with pre and post intervention evaluation, studies with or without control groups, and studies that include at least one family member in addition to the target participants. Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria. Barriers to conducting randomized control trials with displaced refugee populations are discussed. Recommendations are made for future studies to include a focus on scientifically rigorous multi-method designs, specific cultural adaptation frameworks, and the integration of relational aspects rather than focusing only on individual adjustment. Global displacement continues to rise; therefore, it is imperative that the mental health and wellbeing of displaced populations be treated with a comprehensive, multi-level framework.
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Profiles of post-migration stressors and mental health in refugees: A latent class analysis. Psychiatry Res 2022; 311:114494. [PMID: 35287045 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2022.114494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Studies have documented the mental health effects of pre-migration trauma on resettled refugees and identified distinct psychological symptom profiles using person centred statistical techniques (e.g., latent class analysis; LCA). These techniques have advanced our understanding of the complex presentation of trauma and psychopathology in refugees. The current study employs LCA to examine patterns of exposure to stressors including post-migration stressors, allowing us to identify patterns of post-migration stress exposure and their association with mental health outcomes. Participants were 1085 Arabic, Farsi, Tamil, or English speaking adult refugees. Pre-migration trauma, post-migration stressors, PTSD, depression, anger, and functional impairment was measured. LCA was conducted to identify distinct classes of post-migration stressors and associations with mental health and adjustment in the resettlement environment. Latent class analysis revealed 5 classes of participants: high difficulties class (7.2%), immigration fear class (14.4%), social disconnection class (17.3%), moderate difficulties class (28.9%) and a low difficulties class (32.3%). Each of the five classes shared commonalities in addition to key differences associated with specific demographic characteristics and psychopathology. Post-migration stressors appear to map onto distinct profiles, which uniquely contribute to functional impairment and mental health outcomes in refugees. These findings have substantial implications for public health and social services working with resettled refugee communities.
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Lima Junior LPD, Lima KCOD, Bertolozzi MR, França FODS. Vulnerabilities of Arab refugees in primary health care: a scoping review. Rev Saude Publica 2022; 56:15. [PMID: 35384999 PMCID: PMC8963749 DOI: 10.11606/s1518-8787.2022056003691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To map and analyze the vulnerabilities of Arab refugees in the context of primary health care. METHOD Scoping review in which studies published in English, Spanish and Portuguese languages from 2011 onwards were reviewed. The following databases were surveyed: Cochrane, Scopus, Health System Evidence, MedLine-PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, Lilacs, Web of Science, SciELO, NYAM Grey Literature, BVS, Capes Thesis and Dissertation Database, Refworld and Journal of Refugee Studies. Data were analyzed in light of the concept of vulnerability. RESULTS Of the 854 studies identified, 40 articles were held for analysis and extraction of vulnerability indicators in the individual, social and programmatic dimensions. Regarding the individual dimension, the main indicators identified were unemployment, unstable and overcrowded housing, lack of sanitation and access to water, mental disorders, communicable and chronic noncommunicable diseases, etc. In the programmatic dimension, were identified, mainly, health teams with work overload, lack of preparation to deal with cultural and linguistic barriers, and delays in providing care. In relation to the social dimension, lack of access to schools, to information about health programs in the host countries, and to rights, among others, were found. CONCLUSION Vulnerabilities found highlight the disadvantage of refugees regarding health programs, services and system in host countries, in addition to highlighting the deep inequalities that affect this group. It is pointed out the need for programs and policies that promote actions, within the scope of primary health care, which recognize and respond to the health needs of refugees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luiz Paulo de Lima Junior
- Universidade de São Paulo . Faculdade de Saúde Pública . Programa de Pós-Graduação em Saúde Global e Sustentabilidade . São Paulo , SP , Brasil
| | - Kayte Chaves Oliveira de Lima
- Universidade de São Paulo . Escola de Enfermagem . Programa de Pós-Graduação em Enfermagem . São Paulo , SP , Brasil
| | - Maria Rita Bertolozzi
- Universidade de São Paulo . Escola de Enfermagem . Departamento de Enfermagem em Saúde Coletiva . São Paulo , SP , Brasil
| | - Francisco Oscar de Siqueira França
- Universidade de São Paulo . Faculdade de Medicina . Departamento de Moléstias Infecciosas e Parasitárias . Núcleo de Medicina Tropical. São Paulo , SP , Brasil
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‘Swallow medicine, eat rice, pray about health’: health, health care and health-seeking experiences of South-East Asian older refugees. AGEING & SOCIETY 2022. [DOI: 10.1017/s0144686x22000290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
South-East Asian refugees have lived in the United States of America for nearly four decades, with early refugee immigrants experiencing ageing and later life within the refugee context. As refugees age, health concerns of this older population grow, highlighting the need for ongoing assessment of refugee health and health-seeking behaviours. This study builds on previous literature that assessed the health and health-seeking patterns of South-East Asian refugees in the early years following resettlement, exploring how health and health-seeking is understood among older refugees 40 years after immigration. This paper includes a subset of 37 older refugees from a larger, community-based participatory, mixed-methods intergenerational study of Cambodian and Laotian refugee families conducted over four years (quantitative N = 433; qualitative N = 183). Thematic analysis of 34 semi-structured interviews with these older refugees in coastal Alabama revealed trends in health and health-seeking practices. Older refugees reported high rates of diabetes and hypertension within their generational cohort, and indicated a shift in health-seeking behaviours, whereby Western biomedicine is sought first for such chronic concerns, followed by traditional medicines for mild ailments such as headaches or colds. Older refugees underscored barriers of language, finances and transportation as limiting access to Western health care. Implications for engaging in community health practices and incorporating services to specifically meet the needs of the ageing refugee population are discussed.
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Wagner JA, Bermudez-Millan A, Berthold SM, Buckley T, Buxton OM, Feinn R, Kuoch T, Kong S, Lim M, Polomoff C, Scully M. Risk factors for drug therapy problems among Cambodian Americans with complex needs: a cross-sectional, observational study. Health Psychol Behav Med 2022; 10:145-159. [PMID: 35087696 PMCID: PMC8788352 DOI: 10.1080/21642850.2021.2021917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pharmaceutical drug therapy problems (DTPs) are a major public health problem. We examined patient-level risk factors for DTPs among Cambodian Americans. Methods Community health workers (CHWs) verbally administered surveys and completed a detailed medication review form with participants. A doctoral-level pharmacist reviewed the form with the patient and CHW to determine DTP number and type (appropriateness, effectiveness, safety, and adherence). Results Participants (n = 63) averaged 55 years old, 6 years of education, 52% were married, 87% spoke Khmer at home, with modal household income <$20,000 (41%). The percentage of participants with DTPs was: 45% appropriateness, 25% effectiveness, 64% safety, and 30% adherence, averaging 3.7 DTPs per patient. In multiple regressions, patient characteristics uniquely predicted each type of DTP. In a multiple regression controlling for number of medications, being married reduced total DTPs (IRR = 0.70) and being depressed increased total DTPs (IRR = 1.26). Conclusions Vulnerable patients should be prioritized for pharmacist/CHW teams to identify DTPs. Trial registration:ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02502929.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie A. Wagner
- Behavioral Sciences and Community Health, University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Angela Bermudez-Millan
- Public Health Sciences, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA
| | | | - Thomas Buckley
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, University of Connecticut School of Pharmacy, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Orfeu M. Buxton
- Department of Biobehavioral Health, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Richard Feinn
- Department of Medical Sciences, Quinnipiac University School of Medicine, Hamden, CT, USA
| | | | - Sengly Kong
- Khmer Health Advocates, West Hartford, CT, USA
| | - Mackenzie Lim
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, University of Connecticut School of Pharmacy, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Christina Polomoff
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, University of Connecticut School of Pharmacy, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Mary Scully
- Khmer Health Advocates, West Hartford, CT, USA
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Pharmacists and community health workers improve medication-related process outcomes among Cambodian Americans with depression and risk for diabetes. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2022; 62:496-504.e1. [PMID: 34838475 PMCID: PMC8934259 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2021.10.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cambodian Americans have high rates of cardiometabolic and psychiatric disorders and disadvantaged social determinants of health (SDOH). These factors can make it challenging to resolve drug therapy problems (DTPs) and improve medication-related outcomes. This manuscript reports planned analyses from a randomized controlled trial in which participants were randomized to one of 3 treatment arms: (1) community health worker (CHW)-delivered lifestyle intervention called Eat, Walk, sleep (EWS), (2) EWS plus pharmacist/CHW-delivered medication therapy management (EWS + MTM), or (3) social services (SS: control). OBJECTIVES We compared the 3 arms on changes in self-reported medication adherence, barriers, and beliefs. Within the EWS + MTM arm only, we assessed the impact of EWS + MTM on DTP resolution and examined predictors of DTP resolution. METHODS Cambodian Americans at the age of 35-75 years at high risk of developing diabetes and meeting the criteria for likely depression (N = 188) were randomized (EWS, n = 67; EWS + MTM, n = 63; SS, n = 50; control). For all participants, self-reported surveys were collected at baseline, 12 months, and 15 months. DTPs were assessed on the same schedule but only for participants in the EWS + MTM. RESULTS All 3 groups reported a significant decrease in barriers to taking medications. Compared with the other arms, the EWS + MTM arm reported a decrease in forgetting to take medications at 15 months. In the EWS + MTM arm, mean DTPs per patient was 6.57 and 84% of DTPs were resolved. SDOH predictors of DTP resolution included years of education (odds ratio [OR] 0.94, P = 0.016), ability to write English (OR 0.73, P = 0.015), difficulty communicating with provider (OR 1.39, P < 0.001), private insurance (OR 1.99, P = 0.030), disability (OR 0.51, P = 0.008), and years living under Pol Pot (OR 0.66, P = 0.045). Medication barriers at baseline predicted DTP resolution (OR 0.79, P = 0.019) such that each additional barrier was associated with a 21% reduction (1-0.79) in the odds of having a resolution. CONCLUSION CHWs can reduce medications barriers and help pharmacists reduce DTPs in disadvantaged populations.
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Wagner J, Bermudez-Millan A, Buckley T, Buxton OM, Feinn R, Kong S, Kuoch T, Nahmod NG, Scully M. A randomized trial to decrease risk for diabetes among Cambodian Americans with depression: Intervention development, baseline characteristics and process outcomes. Contemp Clin Trials 2021; 106:106427. [PMID: 33957272 PMCID: PMC8312406 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2021.106427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Background: Depression and antidepressant medications are associated with increased risk for type 2 diabetes. It is not known if diabetes can be prevented in the setting of depression. Cambodian Americans have high rates of both depression and diabetes. This paper reports intervention development, experimental design, baseline characteristics, and process outcomes of diabetes prevention interventions for Cambodian Americans with depression, “Diabetes Risk Reduction through Eat, Walk, Sleep and Medication Therapy Management” (DREAM). Methods: Participants were aged 35–75, Khmer speaking, at high risk for developing diabetes, and met criteria for likely depression by either a) antidepressant medication and/or b) elevated depressive symptoms at two time-points during a study eligibility period. Treatment arms were: 1) community health educator (CHE) delivered lifestyle intervention called Eat, Walk, Sleep (EWS), 2) EWS plus pharmacist/CHE-delivered medication therapy management (EWS + MTM), and, 3) social services (SS; control). Results: 188 participants were randomized. Treatment fidelity was high (98% checklist adherence) and on a scale from 0 to 3, participants reported high EWS treatment satisfaction (M = 2.9, SD = 0.2), group cohesion (M = 2.9, SD = 0.3), and therapeutic alliance to CHEs (M = 2.9, SD = 0.2) and to pharmacists (2.9, SD = 0.3). Attendance was challenging but highly successful; in EWS, 99% attended ≥ one session and 86% completed ≥ 24 sessions, M = 27.3 (SD = 3.7) sessions. Of those randomized to EWS + MTM, 98% attended at least one MTM session and 77%) completed ≥ 4 sessions. Retention was high, 95% at 12-month and 96% at 15-month assessments. Conclusions: The interventions were successfully implemented. Lessons learned and suggestions for future trials are offered. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02502929
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Wagner
- UConn Schools of Medicine and Dental Medicine, USA.
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Megan Berthold S, Bermudez-Millan A, Buckley T, Buxton OM, Feinn R, Kong S, Kuoch T, Scully M, Seng K, Wagner J. Social disconnection and metabolic syndrome score among Cambodian Americans with depression. Diabetes Res Clin Pract 2021; 175:108792. [PMID: 33872632 PMCID: PMC8254938 DOI: 10.1016/j.diabres.2021.108792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Migrants experience social disconnection and also have high risk for metabolic syndrome (MetS). This study explored associations of social alienation, social isolation, and social support with MetS among Cambodian Americans. METHODS We conducted secondary data analysis on baseline assessments from a diabetes prevention trial for Cambodian Americans with depression and high risk for diabetes. Participants were aged 35-75, Cambodian or Cambodian-American, Khmer speaking, lived in Cambodia during the Pol Pot regime, lived in the northeastern U.S. at the time of study, endorsed elevated risk factors for diabetes and met criteria for depression by medication for depression and/or elevated depressive symptoms. They completed surveys and provided anthropometric and blood pressure measurements and fasting blood samples. RESULTS In multiple linear regressions, greater social alienation was associated with increased risk for MetS. The social alienation-MetS association was stronger in men than women. Associations were not better accounted for by crude indicators of social isolation such as marital status, living alone, and number of people in the household. Social support was not associated with MetS and did not buffer the deleterious association between social alienation and MetS. CONCLUSIONS Decreasing social alienation may mitigate risk for MetS among migrant populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Megan Berthold
- University of Connecticut School of Social Work, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | | | - Thomas Buckley
- University of Connecticut School of Pharmacy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | | | | | - Sengly Kong
- Khmer Health Advocates, West Hartford, CT, USA
| | | | - Mary Scully
- Khmer Health Advocates, West Hartford, CT, USA
| | - Kagnica Seng
- Central Connecticut State University, New Britain, CT, USA
| | - Julie Wagner
- Behavioral Sciences and Community Health, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA.
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Vu M, Raskind IG, Escoffery C, Srivanjarean Y, Jang HM, Berg CJ. Food insecurity among immigrants and refugees of diverse origins living in metropolitan Atlanta: the roles of acculturation and social connectedness. Transl Behav Med 2020; 10:1330-1341. [PMID: 33421082 PMCID: PMC7796714 DOI: 10.1093/tbm/ibaa035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Little is known about the prevalence and correlates of food insecurity among immigrants and refugees. Acculturation and social connectedness may influence food insecurity (lack of access at all times to enough food for an active, healthy life) by affecting a person's ability to access and use governmental and charitable food assistance programs, as well as other community-based or informal food-related resources. We explored associations of acculturation and social connectedness with food insecurity among diverse immigrants and refugees living in metropolitan Atlanta, a major destination for these populations in recent years. From 2017 to 2018, we surveyed 162 adults attending health fairs or programs hosted by two community-based organizations serving immigrants and refugees. Food insecurity within the past year was assessed using the American Academy of Pediatrics' two-item questionnaire. Acculturation indicators included heritage culture and American acculturation scores (Vancouver Acculturation Index), English fluency, heritage language fluency, and percentage of lifetime in the USA. Social connectedness was operationalized using measures of religious attendance and social isolation. We conducted a multivariable logistic regression controlling for age, sex, education, household income, employment status, and household size. In the sample, 51.9% identified as Vietnamese, 16.0% Hispanic, 15.4% Burmese, 14.8% Bhutanese or Nepali, and 1.8% other. The average age was 39.10 (standard deviation [SD] =13.83), 34.0% were male, 73.8% had below a Bachelor's degree, and 49.7% were unemployed. Average scores for American acculturation (mean [M] = 3.26, SD = 1.05, range 1-5) were lower than heritage acculturation (M = 4.34, SD = 0.68, range 1-5). Additionally, 43.4% were fluent in English. Average percentage of life in the USA was 40.59% (SD = 33.48). Regarding social connectedness, 55.9% regularly attended religious services. Average social isolation scores were 3.93 (SD = 1.34, range 3-9). Overall, past-year food insecurity was reported by 17.3% (34.6% in Hispanics, 24.0% in Burmese, 13.1% in Vietnamese, and 8.3% in Bhutanese or Nepali). In adjusted models, food insecurity was associated with English fluency (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 0.36, p = .03) and social isolation (aOR = 2.29, p < .001) but not other measures of acculturation or religious attendance. Limited English proficiency may make it more difficult to navigate or use governmental and charitable food assistance programs. Social isolation may hinder individuals from obtaining information about food assistance programs, receiving aid for services navigation, and sharing or borrowing food from family, friends, and neighbors. Interventions should seek to improve access to English language and literacy services, enhance the linguistic and cultural competency of service providers, and build social connectedness among immigrants and refugees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milkie Vu
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Ilana G Raskind
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Cam Escoffery
- Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Hyun Min Jang
- Emory College of Arts and Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Carla J Berg
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
- George Washington Cancer Center, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
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Remote Peer Learning Between US and Cambodian Lay Health Workers to Improve Outcomes for Cambodians with Type 2 Diabetes: a Pilot Study. Int J Behav Med 2020; 27:609-614. [PMID: 32435878 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-020-09896-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This paper reports a single-group, pre-post pilot of a peer-learning intervention between community health workers (CHWs) in the USA and Village Health Support Guides (Guides) in Cambodia to improve outcomes for Cambodians with type 2 diabetes (T2D). METHOD Two US-based CHWs were trained in a culturally derived cardiometabolic education curriculum called Eat, Walk, Sleep (EWS) and they were also trained in principles of peer learning. They in turn trained five Cambodia-based Guides remotely through videoconference with a phablet in EWS. Finally, Cambodia-based Guides met with 58 patients with diabetes, face-to-face in their villages, monthly for 6 months to deliver EWS. US-based CHWs and Cambodia-based Guides responded to surveys at baseline and post-treatment. Patients responded to surveys and provided blood pressure and blood samples at baseline and post-treatment. RESULTS For US-based CHWs, scores on all surveys of diabetes knowledge, self-evaluation, job satisfaction, and information technology improved, though no statistical tests were run due to sample size. For Cambodia-based Guides, all scores on these same measures improved except for job satisfaction. For patients, n = 60 consented, 2 withdrew, and 7 were lost to follow-up leaving n = 51 for analysis. In paired t tests, patients showed significantly decreased A1c, decreased systolic and diastolic blood pressures, improved attitudes toward medicines, and a trend for switching from all-white to part-brown rice. No changes were detected in self-reported physical activity, medication adherence, sleep quality, or frequency or amount of rice consumed. CONCLUSION If proven effective in a controlled trial, cross-country peer learning could eventually help other diaspora communities.
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