Exploring the Chronic Illness Experience of Rural-Dwelling Latinos of Mexican Origin.

Abstract

Chronic illness is a complex and ever-growing phenomenon that is affecting millions of Americans every day, and it is disproportionately experienced by Latinos of Mexican origin. In this quantitative study, the specific aims were to evaluate perceptions of chronic illness(es), locus of control (health and God), health status, and cultural orientation of rural-dwelling Latinos of Mexican origin in Colorado who have one or more chronic illnesses and to explore the relationships existing between these concepts. A sample of 102 varied from overall national statistics for this population in the United States by gender, mean annual income, and education completed. As Latinos of Mexican origin move toward becoming the largest minority population in the United States, it is important to improve the body of nursing science that targets this population.