Dietary Acculturation among Filipino Americans

Illness perceptions and blood pressure control among hypertensive Filipino Americans: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Among Asian Americans, Filipino Americans (FAs)-who constitute the fourth largest US immigrant group and who fill in health care workforce shortages-experience high prevalence but low control rates of high blood pressure (HBP). Research reveals that patients' illness perceptions, their common-sense model (CSM) of the illness, influence treatment behaviors, and management outcomes. However, scarce information exists about FAs' perceptions about HBP.

PURPOSE

To address this gap, we conducted a cross-sectional study to (a) identify the illness perceptions of hypertensive FAs, (b) classify these perceptions into clusters, and (c) determine the association between illness perceptions and BP control.

METHODOLOGY

The responses of 248 FAs with HBP to the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire were analyzed using JMP Pro version 17 to discover their CSMs or illness perceptions. We used iterative K means cluster analysis to classify variations in CSMs and analysis of means chart to determine the association of illness perceptions and BP control.

RESULTS

Hypertensive FAs expressed threatening (negative) views of HBP through their emotional perceptions of the illness and its chronic time line, whereas their positive views centered on their cognitive beliefs about understanding HBP and its controllability. Based on the biomedical model of HBP, the overall illness perceptions or CSMs encompassed three clusters. Generally, threatening illness perceptions were associated with stage 2 HBP.

CONCLUSIONS/IMPLICATIONS

The findings underscore the need for nurse practitioners to elicit, listen, discern, and understand the illness perceptions or CSMs of hypertensive FAs to improve BP treatment and control with scientifically and culturally tailored interventions.

Breast, Colorectal, and Prostate Cancer Incidence among Filipino Americans by Generational Status in the Multiethnic Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Filipino Americans constitute 12% and 4% of the respective populations of Hawaii and California, with a large proportion of immigrants experiencing increasing cancer rates. This study investigated the incidence of colorectal, breast, and prostate cancers by generational status in the Multiethnic Cohort.

METHODS

We analyzed 10,495 Filipino Multiethnic Cohort first-, second-, and third-generation participants, in which 26.8% were of mixed race and ethnicity. Linkage to statewide cancer registries identified 375 breast, 249 colorectal, and 436 prostate cancer incident cases. Cox models were used to calculate HRs and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the association between generational status and cancer incidence. Models were adjusted for age at cohort entry and cancer-specific covariates that were chosen based on stepwise regression.

RESULTS

Compared with the first generation, colorectal cancer showed a significantly higher incidence in the second and third generations with respective HRs of 1.43 (95% CI, 1.04, 1.98) and 1.76 (95% CI, 1.29, 2.38). This association was attenuated after adjustment for relevant covariates. Breast cancer incidence was elevated in the third versus first generation (HR = 1.29; 95% CI, 1.01, 1.63) even in the fully adjusted model, whereas little difference was observed for prostate cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

In this prospective study, we found differences in incidence by generational status, specifically colorectal cancer among men and female breast cancer.

IMPACT

Understanding behavioral changes due to acculturation is warranted to mitigate cancer risks in migrant populations.

Acculturating to multiculturalism: a new dimension of dietary acculturation among Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander women in the San Francisco Bay Area, USA

BACKGROUND

Dietary acculturation is the process by which diet and dietary practises from the environment of origin are retained or changed and/or those prevalent in a new environment are adopted. Despite rapid population growth the U.S., knowledge gaps exist on characterising dietary acculturation among Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities (AANHPI). This study characterise dietary patterns in a sample representative of AANHPI on key demographic characteristics.

METHODS

Data were from a 2013-2014 population-based case-control study in the San Francisco Bay Area, U.S. Survey items were adapted from dietary acculturation scales developed for AANHPI populations. Validated measures assessed social capital, social standing, discrimination and immigration experiences. A principal components factor analysis was conducted to characterise dietary patterns of acculturation.

RESULTS

Three dietary patterns were identified: "Asian," "Western," and a distinct "Multicultural" factor. Respondents reporting a high-Asian diet tended to also report smaller social networks, higher levels of stress, and, among those born outside of the U.S., an educational standing that was better before immigration. Respondents reporting a high-Western diet tended to also report the highest level of discrimination. Those reporting a high-Multicultural diet tended to report higher neighbourhood collective efficacy.

CONCLUSIONS

The finding of a distinct "Multicultural" factor beyond the typical "Asian" and "Western" factors may reflect the multidirectional relationships between culture, diet, and dietary behavior, in which origin and destination cultures interact in complex ways and where foods from multiple ethnicities intermix.

Cardiovascular disease in Filipino American men and women: A 2023 update

With more than 4.2 million people, Filipino Americans are the third largest Asian group in the US and the largest Southeast Asian group in the country. Despite relatively favorable average socioeconomic indicators compared to the general US population, Filipino Americans face a significant burden of traditional cardiovascular risk factors, particularly among men. Moreover, Filipino Americans have high rates of cardiovascular death, often occurring at a younger age compared to other minority groups and Non-Hispanic White adults. In view of these trends, in 2010 the American Heart Association designated Filipino Americans as a high cardiovascular risk group. Despite this, in 2023, Filipino Americans remain underrepresented in landmark cardiovascular cohort studies and are often over looked as a group at increased cardiovascular risk. In this updated narrative review, we summarize the current state of knowledge about the burden of cardiovascular risk factors and diseases experienced by the Filipino American population. Our aim is to inform enhanced clinical, population, and policy-level prevention interventions and boost research in this space.

Differences in Nutrient Intake and Diet Quality among Non-Hispanic Black Adults by Place of Birth and Length of Time in the United States

Prior research suggests that migrating to the United States (US) can negatively affect the diets and health of immigrants. There is limited information on how relocating to the US affects the diets of Black-identifying immigrants. To address this gap, this study examined differences in nutrient intake and diet quality among non-Hispanic Black adults by place of birth and length of time in the US. Cross-sectional data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2005-2016) were analyzed. Approximately 6508 non-Hispanic Black adults were categorized into three groups: foreign-born (FB) living in the US <10 years (n = 167), FB living in the US ≥ 10 years (n = 493), and US-born (n = 5848). Multivariable-adjusted logistic and linear regression models were evaluated to identify differences in nutrient intake and diet quality (as measured by the Healthy Eating Index (HEI) of 2015) across the three groups when controlling for socio-demographics. Compared to US-born adults, both FB groups had significantly higher HEI-2015 scores and higher odds of meeting dietary recommendations for several nutrients: saturated fat, sodium, and cholesterol. There were no differences in nutrient intake between the two FB groups; however, FB (<10 years) adults had better diet quality than FB (≥10 years) ones. Place of birth and length of time in the US were associated with dietary intake among non-Hispanic Black adults. More research is needed to improve understanding of dietary acculturation among Black-identifying immigrants in the US.

Post-Migration Changes in Dietary Patterns and Physical Activity among Adult Foreign Residents in Niigata Prefecture, Japan: A Mixed-Methods Study

The migrant population of Japan is gradually increasing, but it is not well known how and why diet and physical activity (PA) change post-migration. Therefore, this study used a mixed-method approach to investigate the changes in dietary patterns and PA through a web- and paper-based survey (n = 128) and understand the contextual factors for those changes through semi-structured interviews (n = 21). Descriptive and thematic analyses of quantitative and qualitative data were conducted, respectively. The majority of survey (57.8%) and interview (66.7%) participants were female, and the mean duration of stay in Japan was 5 and 3.6 years, respectively. The survey revealed an increased consumption of foods attached to Japanese culture, frozen and microwavable food, and a reduced consumption of fruits. We identified environmental (availability, accessibility, and affordability of foods; food safety and diet-related information; and climate), individual (living status; post-migration lifestyle; and food preferences and limitations), or socio-cultural (relationships with Japanese people; cultural differences; and religious influences) factors that impact diet changes. Language proficiency and the duration of stay shape dietary behaviors. Determinants of PA changes were climate, lifestyle, and the influence of Japanese culture. In conclusion, immigrants in Japan experience post-migration diet and PA changes, and this study adds knowledge about how and why such changes occur.

The development of the Cognitive Assessment for Tagalog Speakers (CATS): A culturally and linguistically tailored test battery for Filipino Americans

INTRODUCTION

Filipino Americans are one of the largest Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) populations in the United States (US). Previous studies suggest that Filipino Americans have one of the highest incidence rates of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) among AAPI subgroups. Despite the expected increase in Filipino Americans with ADRD, no studies to-date have validated neuropsychological measures in the United States for speakers of Tagalog, a major language spoken by Filipino Americans. A significant barrier to dementia care and diagnosis is the lack of linguistically and socioculturally appropriate cognitive tasks for Tagalog speakers. To address this need, we developed and piloted the Cognitive Assessment for Tagalog Speakers (CATS), the first neuropsychological battery for the detection of ADRD in Filipino American Tagalog speakers.

METHODS

Based on evidence-based neuropsychological batteries, we adapted and constructed de novo tasks to measure performance across 4 main cognitive domains: visual/verbal memory, visuospatial functioning, speech and language, and frontal/executive functioning. Tasks were developed with a team of bilingual English/Tagalog, bicultural Filipino American/Canadian experts, including a neurologist, speech-language pathologist, linguist, and neuropsychologist. We recruited Tagalog-speaking participants of age 50+ through social media advertisements and recruitment registries for this cross-sectional study. We present the CATS design and protocol.

RESULTS

To-date, the CATS battery has been administered to 26 healthy control participants (age 64.5 ± 7.8 years, 18F/8 M) at an academic institution in Northern California, United States. The development and administration of the CATS battery demonstrated its feasibility but also highlighted the need to consider the effects of bilingualism, language typology, and cultural factors in result interpretation.

DISCUSSION

The CATS battery provides a mechanism for cognitive assessment of Filipino Americans, a population that has been underrepresented in ADRD research. As we move toward the treatment and cure of ADRD, linguistically and socioculturally appropriate cognitive tests become even more important for equitable care.

Looking Across and Within: Immigration as a Unifying Structural Factor Impacting Cardiometabolic Health and Diet

Introduction

Immigration has been identified as an important social determinant of health (SDH), embodying structures and policies that reinforce positions of poverty, stress, and limited social and economic mobility. In the public health literature with regard to diet, immigration is often characterized as an individual-level process (dietary acculturation) and is largely examined in one racial/ethnic subgroup at a time. For this narrative review, we aim to broaden the research discussion by describing SDH common to the immigrant experience and that may serve as barriers to healthy diets.

Methods

A narrative review of peer-reviewed quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods studies on cardiometabolic health disparities, diet, and immigration was conducted.

Results

Cardiometabolic disease disparities were frequently described by racial/ethnic subgroups instead of country of origin. While cardiovascular disease and obesity risk differed by country of origin, diabetes prevalence was typically higher for immigrant groups vs United States (US)-born individuals. Common barriers to achieving a healthy diet were food insecurity; lack of familiarity with US food procurement practices, food preparation methods, and dietary guidelines; lack of familiarity and distrust of US food processing and storage methods; alternative priorities for food purchasing (eg, freshness, cultural relevance); logistical obstacles (eg, transportation); stress; and ethnic identity maintenance.

Conclusions

To improve the health of immigrant populations, understanding similarities in cardiometabolic health disparities, diet, and barriers to health across immigrant communities-traversing racial/ethnic subgroups-may serve as a useful framework. This framework can guide research, policy, and public health practices to be more cohesive, generalizable, and meaningfully inclusive.

Comparison of cardiovascular disease risk factors among FiLWHEL (2014-2016), NNS (2013) and KNHANES (2013-2015) women

OBJECTIVES

This study assessed the CVD risk factors among Filipino women (FW) in Korea and compared them with FW in the Philippines and women in Korea (KW).

METHODS

A cohort of 504 women from the Filipino Women's Health and Diet Study (FiLWHEL) aged 20-57 years old were age-matched (1:1 ratio) with women from the 2013 National Nutrition Survey in the Philippines and the 2013-2015 Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Anthropometric data, blood pressure (BP), lipid and glucose levels were compared across the four populations by calculating the odds ratio (OR)s and 95% confidence interval (CI)s using conditional logistic regression models.

RESULTS

Compared to KW, FW in Korea and FW in the Philippines were more than 2 and 3 times higher odds of having obesity for BMI ≥ 30 kg/m² and waist circumference ≥ 88 cm, respectively. However, FW in Korea had the highest odds (OR 5.51, 95% CI 3.18-9.56) of having hypertension compared to KW. FW in the Philippines had the highest odds of having dyslipidemia (compared to KW, total cholesterol ≥ 200 mg/dL: OR 8.83, 95% CI 5.30-14.71; LDL-C ≥ 130 mg/dL: OR 3.25, 95% CI 2.13-4.98; and triglyceride ≥ 150 mg/dL: OR 2.59, 95% CI 1.59-4.22), but FW in Korea and KW had similar prevalence of dyslipidemia.

CONCLUSIONS

FW in Korea had higher prevalence of obesity and hypertension, with similar prevalence of dyslipidemia compared to KW in this sample. FW in the Philippines had higher prevalence of dyslipidemia compared to FW in Korea. Further prospective studies are warranted to examine the CVD risk factors among continental and native-born Filipino women.

Ang Ating Mata: Disparities in Eye Health Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices among Older Adult Filipino-Americans in the San Francisco Bay Area Counties

Filipino-Americans are the third largest Asian-American population, with a median age of 44. However, there is limited literature focusing on the group's ophthalmic care engagement. Timely eye examinations and outreach are necessary to reduce visual impairment in this older community. To assess eye care knowledge, attitudes, and practices, we conducted a cross-sectional study surveying Filipino-Americans within the nine San Francisco Bay Area counties. Associations between primary outcomes and sociodemographic factors were analyzed using chi-squared analysis and student's T-test. In our convenience sample of 256 surveys, a majority of participants are receiving appropriate eye care; those that lacked health and eye insurance, immigrated and are lower income did not receive optimal eye care. Study participants also demonstrated a lack of awareness of eye diseases and risk factors. Our results suggest that culturally sensitive eye health education materials are lacking and should be made accessible for this large and rapidly growing population.

Association of U.S. birth, duration of residence in the U.S., and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk factors among Asian adults

Introduction

Prior studies have shown a direct association between U.S. birth and duration of residence with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) though, few have specifically focused on Asian Americans.

Methods

We utilized cross-sectional data from the 2006 to 2015 National Health Interview Survey. We compared prevalent cardiovascular risk factors and ASCVD among Asian American individuals by U.S. birth and duration of time spent in the U.S.

Results

The study sample consisted of 18,150 Asian individuals of whom 20.5 % were Asian Indian, 20.5 % were Chinese, 23.4 % were Filipino, and 35.6 % were of other Asian ethnic groups. The mean (standard error) age was 43.8 (0.21) years and 53 % were women. In multivariable-adjusted logistic regression models, U.S. birth was associated with a higher prevalence odds ratio (95 % confidence interval) of current smoking 1.31 (1.07,1.60), physical inactivity 0.62 (0.54,0.72), obesity 2.26 (1.91,2.69), hypertension 1.33 (1.12,1.58), and CAD 1.96 (1.24,3.11), but lower prevalence of stroke 0.28 (0.11,0.71). Spending greater than 15 years in the U.S. was associated with a higher prevalence of current smoking 1.65 (1.24,2.21), obesity 2.33 (1.57,3.47), diabetes 2.68 (1.17,6.15), and hyperlipidemia 1.72 (1.09,2.71).

Conclusion

Heterogeneity exists in cardiovascular risk factor burden among Asian Americans according to Asian ethnicity, U.S. birth, and duration of time living in the U.S.

Diabetes Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Care in Asian American and Pacific Islanders of Texas: Data From the 2015-2019 Behavioral Risk Factors Surveillance System

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the health status and needs of the Asian American/Pacific Islander (AAPI) population with diabetes in Texas.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional secondary analysis of data collected from the Behavioral Risk Factors Surveillance System in Texas from 2015 to 2019 for non-Hispanic White (NHW) and AAPI adults.

RESULTS

Although the overall crude diabetes prevalence was lower in AAPI adults, age-adjusted diabetes prevalence was higher than in NHWs. Significant risk factors associated with diabetes in the AAPI group included being male, marital status, lower education levels, lower income, being overweight/obese, and having a sedentary lifestyle. Engagement in self-management activities (checking blood glucose, checking feet, attending a diabetes management course) was lower in AAPIs than in NHWs.

CONCLUSIONS

Given stiff barriers to adequate screening and self-management support in diabetes care among ethnic populations such as AAPIs, targeted efforts to improve diabetes screening and effective care are warranted. Because today's AAPI populations are predominantly first-generation immigrant groups who suffer from language barriers, efforts should be made to develop health surveys in multiple languages for wider inclusion of understudied groups like AAPIs in diabetes-related research.

Type 2 Diabetes Among Filipino American Adults in the Multiethnic Cohort

INTRODUCTION

Several Asian racial and ethnic groups, including individuals of Filipino ancestry, are at higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes than White individuals, despite their lower body mass index (BMI). This study examined determinants of type 2 diabetes among Filipino American adults in the Multiethnic Cohort Study.

METHODS

Participants in Hawaii and Los Angeles completed questionnaires on demographics, diet, and anthropometrics. Generational status was determined according to birthplace of participants and their parents. Based on self-reported data and data on medications, type 2 diabetes status was classified as no, prevalent, or incident. We used polytomous logistic regression, while adjusting for confounders, to obtain odds ratios.

RESULTS

Among 10,681 Multiethnic Cohort Study participants reporting any Filipino ancestry, 57% were 1st-, 17% were 2nd-, and 25% were 3rd-generation Filipino Americans. Overall, 13% and 17% of participants had a prevalent or incident type 2 diabetes diagnosis. Overweight and obesity and the presence of other risk factors increased from the 1st to subsequent generations. First-generation immigrants were less likely to report type 2 diabetes at cohort entry than immigrants of subsequent generations who were born in the US or whose parents were born in the US; only the prevalence of type 2 diabetes was significantly elevated in the 2nd generation compared with the 1st generation.

CONCLUSION

The results support the hypothesis that Filipino migrants adopt lifestyle factors of the host country and subsequent generations experience higher type 2 diabetes rates due to changes in risk factor patterns.

Development of an Intervention to Promote Physical Activity and Reduce Dietary Sodium Intake for Preventing Hypertension and Chronic Disease in Filipino Americans

Hypertension is a common chronic health condition affecting Filipino Americans. This pilot study examined the feasibility of addressing high rates of hypertension among Filipino Americans through the implementation of a culturally tailored education intervention. Filipino Americans living in the Greater Philadelphia Area were recruited through community-based organizations for participation and were engaged using a community-based participatory research (CBPR) framework. The study included pre- and post-intervention blood pressure measurements, self-reported body mass index, and questionnaires about physical activity and salt intake. The intervention to promote physical activity and reduce salt intake was conducted through two educational sessions and was accompanied by follow-up at 3 months and by the collection of urine samples for 24-h urinary sodium intake biomarker analysis. Following intervention, a non-statistically significant decrease in urine sodium was observed in both the intervention and the control groups. For systolic blood pressure, a reduction of 12.6 mmHg and an increase in 5.3 mmHg was observed in the intervention and control groups, respectively. Diastolic pressure decreased 3.8 mmHg for the intervention group and increased 5.6 mmHg among controls. The culturally tailored education intervention reported here represents a promising tool for blood pressure reduction in high-risk ethnic populations. The methods used were effective for the recruitment and retention of ethnic minorities in a community-based setting.

Food Patterns among Chinese Immigrants Living in the South of Spain

This article aims to explore the food patterns of Chinese immigrants living in Spain and to understand the factors associated with these behaviors. This qualitative ethnographic study included 133 Chinese immigrants; using interviews with scripts were based on the National Health Survey of Spain. Three categories were defined: “Differences between Chinese food and Western food”; “Products and dishes consumed by Chinese immigrants” and “Modification of eating habits”. Participants found a remarkable difference between eastern (i.e., vegetables and rice) and western (i.e., dairy, high-fat, bread) foods. They also experienced a change in their eating habits, mostly related to acculturation and lack of time. Chinese immigrants have different eating patterns as compared to the native population in Spain and this information could help in future healthcare strategies. Knowing the food culture could infer aspects, such as insertion or integration, and promoting health and well-being.

Pregnancy-related weight among immigrant and US-born mothers: The role of nativity, maternal duration of residence, and age at arrival

OBJECTIVES

The goals of this study were to examine the associations between nativity and pregnancy-related weight and to assess the associations between maternal duration of residence and age at arrival in the United States on pregnancy-related weight among immigrants.

METHODS

Using logistic regression and data from the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study-Birth Cohort, we assessed differences in preconception weight and gestational weight gain between US-born and immigrant women (N = 7000). We then analyzed differences in both outcomes by duration of residence among immigrants (n = 1850) and examined whether the identified relationships varied by age at arrival in the United States.

RESULTS

Compared to US-born mothers, immigrants were less likely to be classified as obese prior to pregnancy (odds ratio 0.435, 95% confidence interval, 0.321-0.590) or experience excessive gestational weight gain (odds ratio 0.757, 95% confidence interval, 0.614-0.978). Among the immigrant sub-sample, living in the United States for 10-15 years (odds ratio 2.737, 95% confidence interval, 1.459-5.134) or 16+ years was positively associated with both preconception obesity (odds ratio 2.918, 95% confidence interval, 1.322-6.439) and excessive gestational weight gain (odds ratio 1.683, 95% confidence interval, 1.012-2.797, 16+ years only). There was some evidence that the duration of residence was positively associated with preconception obesity, but only among women who had moved to the United States at age 18 years and older.

CONCLUSION

In sum, while immigrants are less likely than US-born mothers to experience preconception obesity or excessive gestational weight gain, these outcomes vary among the former group by duration of US residence.

Influence of organizational and social contexts on the implementation of culturally adapted hypertension control programs in Asian American-serving grocery stores, restaurants, and faith-based community sites: a qualitative study

Hypertension affects a third of U.S. adults and is especially high among Asian American groups. The Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health for Asian AmeRicans (REACH FAR) project delivers culturally adapted, evidence-based hypertension-related programs to Bangladeshi, Filipino, Korean, and Asian Indian communities in New York and New Jersey through 26 sites: ethnic grocery stores, restaurants, and Muslim, Christian, and Sikh faith-based organizations. Knowledge of the implementation mechanisms of culturally adapted programs is limited and is critical to inform the design and execution of such programs by and in community sites. We applied four categories of the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research-intervention and individuals' characteristics, inner and outer setting-to analyze factors influencing implementation outcomes, that is, site leaders' perceptions about adopting, adapting, and sustaining REACH FAR. We conducted semistructured interviews with 15 leaders, coded them for implementation outcomes, and recoded them to identify contextual factors. Our findings show that REACH FAR resonated in sites where leaders perceived unhealthy diet and lifestyles in their communities (intervention characteristics), sites had historically engaged in health programs as a public-service mission (inner setting), and leaders identified with this mission (individuals' characteristics). Site leaders strived to adapt programs to respond to community preferences (outer setting) without compromising core objectives (inner setting). Leaders noted that program sustainability could be impeded by staff and volunteer turnover (inner setting) but enhanced by reinforcing programs through community networks (outer setting). The findings suggest that to facilitate implementation of culturally adapted health behavior programs through community sites, interventions should reinforce sites' organizational commitments and social ties.

Acculturation and Food Intake Among Ghanaian Migrants in Europe: Findings From the RODAM Study

OBJECTIVE

This study examined the role of migration and acculturation in the diet of Ghanaian migrants in Europe by (1) comparing food intake of Ghanaian migrants in Europe with that of Ghanaians living in Ghana and (2) assessing the association between acculturation and food intake.

DESIGN

Data from the cross-sectional multicenter study Research on Obesity and Diabetes among African Migrants were used. Food intake was assessed using a Ghana-specific food propensity questionnaire (134 items and 14 food groups); foods were grouped based on a model of dietary change proposed by Koctürk-Runefors.

SETTING

Ghana, London, Amsterdam, and Berlin.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 4,534 Ghanaian adults living in Ghana and Europe, with complete dietary data. Of these, 1,773 Ghanaian migrants had complete acculturation data.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Food intake (the weighted intake frequency per week of food categories).

ANALYSIS

Linear regression.

RESULTS

Food intake differed between Ghanaians living in Ghana and Europe. Among Ghanaian migrants in Europe, there were inconsistent and small associations between acculturation and food intake, except for ethnic identity, which was consistently associated with intake only of traditional staples.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Findings indicate that migration is associated with dietary changes that cannot be fully explained by ethnic, cultural, and social acculturation. The study provides limited support to the differential changes in diet suggested by the Koctürk-Runefors' model of dietary change.

Acculturation and Diet Among Chinese American Immigrants in New York City

BACKGROUND

There are limited data on the social and cultural determinants of dietary intake in Chinese Americans. Over 560,000 New York City residents are Chinese American, and there has been a growing trend over the past 30 y of permanent migration from China to the USA.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this secondary data analysis is to describe associations between diet, measured by self-report, and diet quality, with level of acculturation in a cross-sectional sample of urban-dwelling Chinese American immigrants.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study involving 2071 foreign-born Chinese American adults. Acculturation was assessed using the Stephenson Multigroup Acculturation Scale, diet using a Chinese-adapted FFQ, and diet quality using the Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI). Multivariable regression was used to assess associations between ethnic (ESI; Chinese) and dominant (DSI; American) society immersion scores with self-reported dietary measures.

RESULTS

No significant associations were found between acculturation and overall AHEI score. Higher ESI and DSI scores were associated with higher vegetable, fruit, and nut/legume scores; a higher DSI score only was associated with higher whole grain and PUFA scores. A 1-unit increase in the ESI score was associated with a 0.005 (P = 0.009) lower red and processed meat component score, whereas a 1-unit increase in DSI score was associated with a 0.01 (P = 0.025) higher red and processed meat component score.

CONCLUSIONS

Assessment of acculturation level may help to tailor dietary strategies that are appropriate to what Chinese American immigrant communities are consuming to more effectively decrease the risk of chronic disease.

Nutritional behavior in Italian and immigrant children

BACKGROUND

There are 1.2 million of immigrant children living in Italy. However, data on their nutritional habits are limited. The aim of this study was to assess the nutritional profile in a cohort of both Italian and immigrant children.

METHODS

The study included 86 children aged 5-15 consecutively enrolled from January 2016 to May 2017 within a larger epidemiological study on determinants of diabetes. Immigrant state was defined on the basis of the parent origin. Data on nutritional profile, frequency of food group consumption, and eating habits were collected using the 24-hour dietary recall method and a questionnaire. Anthropometric parameters were measured.

RESULTS

In the cohort of immigrant children there was a higher prevalence of both overweight (27.3 vs. 14.1%) and obesity (18.2 vs. 3.1%) subjects and a greater total calorie intake compared to Italian children, mainly due to excess simple carbohydrate intake. Immigrant children had a higher consumption of sweets, snacks, and drinks with added sugar. Moreover, unhealthy habits, such as eating alone and eating while watching TV, were more frequent among immigrant children.

CONCLUSIONS

In this cohort, immigrant children had a higher prevalence of overweight/obesity possibly due to less healthy nutritional habits. Culturally-tailored nutritional interventions may help preventing the development of obesity-related diseases in this population.

Pre-acculturation as a risk factor for obesity: Findings from the Health of Philippine Emigrants Study (HoPES)

Immigrants to the United States may have an advantage in terms of healthier weight, but tend to gain excessive weight after arrival, and may suffer from obesity and related health conditions. Acculturation theory suggests that this increase in obesity risk is due to adoption of unhealthy western dietary behaviors, and assumes that "eastern/traditional" dietary behaviors prior to migration are healthier. While this assumption is supported by studies conducted several decades ago, the phenomenon of globalization that has risen since the 1990s has increased exposure to western ideas and behaviors in communities worldwide. Hence, today's immigrants are more likely to have already adopted less healthy behaviors that increase obesity risk prior to their arrival in the U.S., a phenomenon we term "pre-acculturation." The present study investigates the role of pre-acculturation in obesity development among immigrants from the Philippines. Data come from the Health of Philippine Emigrants Study, fielded in 2017 (n = 1632). Pre-acculturation was measured with English proficiency, preparation to migrate, receiving care packages, texting, telephone, or internet contact with friends/family in the U.S. Outcomes included the body mass index (BMI, kg/m2), waist circumference (WC, cm), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) and waist-to-hip-ratio (WHR). Covariates included age, gender, education, financial strain, physical activity, and diet. Migrants reported greater English proficiency, preparation, and a slightly lower WHtR than non-migrants, but did not differ on BMI, WC, or WHR. Preparation was associated with greater BMI, WC, and WHtR, and the effects of preparation status differed by migration status. Among migrants, more preparation was associated with greater BMI, WC, and WtHR. Further, among non-migrants, texting and telephone communications was related to lower BMI, WC, and WHR. In summary, pre-acculturation may be a risk factor for obesity in the Philippines, suggesting that binary notions of "Western" versus "eastern/traditional" cultures may be too simplistic.

The Association of Acculturation and Complementary Infant and Young Child Feeding Practices Among New Chinese Immigrant Mothers in England: A Mixed Methods Study

Acculturation has an influence on mothers' beliefs and the perceived behaviours of different ethnicities. Few studies have been conducted on complementary infant and young child feeding practices (CIYCFP) in minorities in England, particularly in Chinese immigrants. This mixed study aims to explore the association of acculturation and IYCF among new Chinese immigrant mothers using purposive snowball sampling from an informal Chinese community. The participants' responses to the Infant Feeding Style Questionnaire (IFSQ) and Mutual Intercultural Relations in Plural Societies (MIRIPS), questionnaire (n = 32) were collected. A sub-set of 15 also participated in semi-structured interviews. Pearson's correlation coefficient analysis and thematic analysis were performed to analyse the survey and semi-structured interview data, and triangulation was employed to integrate quantitative and qualitative findings. This study indicated that Chinese mothers who scored high in integration were more likely to respond to satiety and attention; those inclined to be marginalised were more likely to indulge their children. Those who were more culturally separated were more likely to restrict the food quality offered to their children. This study also indicated that Chinese immigrants balanced western and Chinese feeding practices to combat feeding and culture conflict. This study presents preliminary findings of the association between acculturation and CIYCFP, which can improve culturally appropriate CIYCFP in minorities. Further studies are needed to explore intervention programs to tailor CIYCFP with consideration for acculturation in the minority.

A Study of Physical Activity Determinants among High-Risk Hypertensive Filipino and Korean Americans

Physical activity (PA) serves a critical role in maintaining health and preventing chronic diseases, though its influence on high-risk Asian American populations is unclear. The purpose of this study was to determine PA levels among Filipino and Korean Americans at high risk of hypertension and to identify sociodemographic and health-related factors associated with PA levels in these populations. A cross-sectional survey was administered to 137 participants in the Greater Philadelphia Area. Data was collected on PA levels, sociodemographic factors, and health factors. Multinomial logistic regression was conducted to determine predictors associated with low, moderate, and high PA and predictive probabilities were calculated for interaction terms, incorporating ethnicity and blood pressure variables. Overall, 42.33% of participants belonged to the moderately active PA group and 21.90% belonged to the highly active group. In the final multinomial regression model, it was found that having gone to college increased the odds of being in the moderately active PA group (coef. = 1.96, p = 0.034), while having high blood pressure reduced the odds of being in the moderately active PA group (coef. = -2.21, p = 0.022). Lastly, being Korean versus Filipino reduced the odds of being in the highly active category (coef. = -2.89, p = 0.035). Based on predictive probabilities, Koreans and Filipinos with high blood pressure were more likely to belong in the low active PA category (52.31% and 46.33%). These findings highlight the need for culturally relevant PA interventions for promoting and increasing PA levels to prevent and manage hypertension among these populations.

Filipinos Fit and Trim - A feasible and efficacious DPP-based intervention trial

INTRODUCTION

Filipino Americans are at higher risk for obesity and related Type 2 diabetes (T2D) compared to other Asian subgroups and non-Hispanic whites. Yet, there are limited research studies to reduce health disparities and improve health outcomes for Filipinos. Weight loss lifestyle intervention trials such as the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) can reduce obesity and T2D risks through physical activity and healthy eating.

METHODS

Thus, we conducted a pilot Fit&Trim (DPP-based) intervention study - a randomized controlled trial 3-month intervention augmented with mobile technology + 3-month maintenance follow-up with a waitlist control. The objective assessed the intervention feasibility and potential efficacy to reduce T2D risks in Filipino Americans with overweight/obesity. The overall study goal was a mean 5% weight reduction.

RESULTS

Sixty-seven eligible Filipino men and women were enrolled and randomized to either an intervention or waitlist control group. Participant retention was 91%. In Phase 1 (baseline to 3-months), the intervention group had greater weight reduction compared to the waitlist control (-4.3% vs. -0.88%; cross-level interaction = -0.85 (-1.4, -0.35). In Phase 2 (3- to 6-months), after receiving the Fit&Trim intervention, the waitlist group also had similar significant weight reduction [-4.8% (- 0.75 (-0.92, -0.58)]. A majority of intervention group (57%) also maintained their weight loss. Overall, 41% of study participants achieved a 5% weight loss.

CONCLUSION

The Fit&Trim intervention demonstrated feasibility and potential efficacy for Filipino Americans. Findings warrant a further larger, longer trial to test the Fit&Trim feasibility and effectiveness in a real-world Filipino community setting.

CLINICALTRIALSGOV REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT02278939.

Dietary Intake and Obesity among Filipino Americans in New Jersey

The prevalence of obesity is a public concern and is linked to chronic diseases. Filipino Americans have a high prevalence rate of hypertension and diabetes. This study investigated the dietary intake of first-generation Filipino Americans (n=210). In addition, it provides a comparison of the obesity rates using the International guideline and the WHO Asian recommendation. The dietary intake included caloric, carbohydrate, and fat intake and was determined using the Block Brief Food Frequency Questionnaire. The anthropometric measurements included actual height, weight, and waist measurements. The body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference were categorized using the International guideline and the WHO Asian recommendation to determine obesity. The caloric and carbohydrate intake were normal; however, fat intake was increased. The BMI and waist circumference showed substantial difference when using the International and Asian guidelines to determine obesity. The results highlight the increased health risks of Filipino American immigrants including a high dietary fat intake and an increased obesity rate.

Acculturation of immigrant diet, basic taste responses and sodium appetite

In young new Ethiopian immigrants (EI, about 0·5 years since immigration; n 20), veteran Ethiopian immigrant students (ES, about 13 years since immigration; n 30) and native Israeli students (NS; n 82), dietary macronutrients and electrolytes, and responses to basic tastes were compared in a cross-sectional design. From EI, to ES, to NS, dietary energy, protein, fat, and Na⁺ increase, whereas carbohydrates, K⁺ and Ca²⁺ do not differ. Corrected for energy intake, only Na⁺ increases. EI consume less dietary Na⁺, like foods with less Na⁺ content, salt their food less, yet show a greater hedonic response to salt taste. In contrast, preference for sweet does not differ. Taste psychophysics, 6-n-propylthiouracil (PROP) responses and lingual fungiform papillae density differ by group (and sex), but do not relate to dietary intake. Together, these changes could reflect dietary acculturation, increasing overall intake, Na⁺ in particular, accompanied by decreasing taste sensitivity, and changes in sensory perception and preference in these Ethiopian immigrants. The fact that immigrants find salt more hedonic, yet eat less of it, could suggest increased sensitivity to its taste, and might suggest restoring sensitivity to reduce Na⁺ intake for all. Similar alterations in taste sensory responses might be obtained in other forms of dietary flux. Understanding dietary acculturation can focus efforts (e.g. on Na⁺), to anticipate the disease burden of diets of affluence among immigrants. Yet, these immigrants’ nutrition is healthier in its low fat and Na⁺, suggesting that nutritional advice should focus on preservation, as well as prevention. Our study adds Ethiopian nutritional acculturation to that of the varied immigrant groups around the world.

Addressing the Health Needs of High-Risk Filipino Americans in the Greater Philadelphia Region

Filipino Americans represent one of the largest and most diverse immigrant populations in the United States. It has been established that chronic diseases are a significant public health issue affecting this population. We conducted a health needs assessment of 200 Filipino Americans aged 18 years or older residing in the greater Philadelphia region. Study participants were recruited from eight Filipino community-based organizations in the region. Information about demographic and acculturative characteristics, health behaviors, self-reported chronic health conditions, and chronic disease perception were collected. Participants were older and highly acculturated. With regards to health behaviors, several did not meet dietary fruit and vegetables intake and physical activity guidelines. The top five health conditions were high blood pressure (67.5 %), high blood cholesterol (57.1 %), arthritis (28.9 %), diabetes (21.8 %), and cancer (14.7 %). Majority of participants perceived high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, and diabetes to be a concern in their community, and had high awareness of the risk factors associated with these diseases. Reported rates of hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes suggest that lifestyle interventions targeting diet and physical activity, in addition to health education, are needed in this population.

Concept analysis of dietary biculturalism in Filipino immigrants within the context of cardiovascular risk

BACKGROUND

Dietary biculturalism is an emerging phenomenon among the Filipino immigrant population. Determining the concept of dietary biculturalism on this specific population will unravel some of the obscurities of emerging dietary patterns within the context of cardiovascular risk.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this article is to provide a concept analysis of dietary biculturalism within the health context of cardiovascular risk using Walker and Avant's method as an organizing framework.

METHODS

A detailed literature review was performed on the basis of population specificity (Filipinos) use of dietary patterns as variable and theoretical literary models of acculturation.

FINDINGS

The generalizability of published research on this issue is problematic since researchers have not addressed the unhealthy traditional foods component that one may consume in addition to the Western foods.

NURSING IMPLICATIONS

Nurse researchers should focus on the detrimental effects of unhealthy traditional foods that may be relevant in explaining some of the cardiovascular risk factors affecting this population. Nurses and practitioners should take care to query not only about the frequency of ethnic food consumption, but also types, and amounts among their Filipino patients.

Nativity, Chronic Health Conditions, and Health Behaviors in Filipino Americans

INTRODUCTION

Nearly half of Americans have a chronic health condition related to unhealthful behavior. One in four Americans is an immigrant; yet immigrants' health has been studied little, particularly among Asian American subpopulations.

METHODOLOGY

Years lived in United States, hypertension, diabetes, smoking, walking, adiposity, and fruit/vegetable variables in the 2011-2012 California Health Interview Survey were analyzed to examine the influence of nativity on chronic health conditions and health behaviors in 555 adult Filipinos, the second largest Asian American immigrant subpopulation.

RESULTS

Recent and long-term immigrant Filipinos had higher odds of having hypertension and diabetes, but lower odds of smoking and overweight/obesity compared with second-generation Filipinos.

DISCUSSION

Being born in the United States may be protective against chronic health conditions, but not for healthful behaviors among Filipinos. Chronic disease prevention and health promotion strategies should consider nativity/length of residence, which may be a more consequential health determinant than other immigration and acculturation characteristics.

Evaluation of Factorial Validity and Reliability of a Food Behavior Checklist for Low-Income Filipinos

OBJECTIVE

To examine factorial validity, test-retest reliability, and internal consistency of a Tagalog-language food behavior checklist (FBC) for a low-income Filipino population.

METHODS

Participants (n = 160) completed the FBC on 2 occasions 3 weeks apart. Factor structure was examined using principal component analysis. For internal consistency, Cronbach α was calculated. For test-retest reliability, Spearman correlation or intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was calculated between scores at the 2 points.

RESULTS

All but 1 item loaded on 6 factors: fruit and vegetable quantity, fruit and vegetable variety, fast food, sweetened beverage, healthy fat, and diet quality. Cronbach α was .75 for the total scale (range, .39-.76 for subscales). Spearman correlation was 0.78 (ICC, 0.79) for the total scale (range, 0.66-0.80 [ICC, 0.68-0.80] for subscales).

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

The FBC demonstrated adequate factorial validity, test-retest reliability, and internal consistency. With additional testing, the FBC may be used to evaluate the US Department of Agriculture's nutrition education programs for Tagalog speakers.

Prevalence of Diabetes among Migrant Women and Duration of Residence in the United Arab Emirates: A Cross Sectional Study

Background

The prevalence rate of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is one of the highest in United Arab Emirates (UAE), however data for the expatriate population is limited. This study aimed to identify the prevalence of T2DM amongst migrant women and test the hypothesis that acculturation (measured by years of residency) is associated with an increased risk of T2DM.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study and we recruited a representative sample (n = 599, 75% participation rate) of migrant women aged 18 years and over in Al Ain, UAE. The American Diabetes Association criteria were used to diagnose T2DM. An adapted WHO STEPS questionnaire was used to collect socio-demographic, lifestyle and clinical data. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify correlates of T2DM including length of UAE residence.

Results

The mean age of participants was 34.1 (± 9.5) years. Of the study participants, based on HbA1C levels, 18.6% (95% CI: 13.9–24.4) had prediabetes and 10.7% (95% CI: 7.2–15.6) had T2DM. Prevalence of prediabetes was 8.5% for Filipinos, 16.7% for Arabs and 30.3% for South Asians. Similarly the prevalence of T2DM was 1.7% for Filipinos, 12.2% for Arabs and 16.7% for South Asians. Significant correlates of overall T2DM (measured and known diabetes) included length of UAE residence for more than 10 years (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR] 2.74, 95% CI: 1.21–6.20), age ≥40 years (AOR = 3.48, 95% CI: 1.53–7.87) and South Asian nationality (AOR 2.10, 95% CI: 0.94–4.70).

Conclusion

Diabetes is a significant public health problem among migrant women in the UAE, particularly for South Asians. Longer length of residence in the UAE is associated with a higher prevalence of diabetes.