Higher Acculturation Research Articles

A preliminary cross-sectional and longitudinal examination of acculturation level as a moderator of perceived school discrimination on depressive symptoms among latinx adolescents

ABSTRACT Introduction In an effort to identify risk factors that are associated with depressive symptoms among Latinx adolescents, the study examined the combined concurrent and longitudinal impact of perceived school discrimination and acculturation. Method This secondary data analysis study utilized data from two waves of the Children of Immigrants Longitudinal Study. Participants were 581 Latinx adolescents [(Mage = 14.27 years. SDage = .86) at wave 1; 57.4% female]. Results More acculturated adolescents who perceived school discrimination endorsed greater depressive symptoms cross-sectionally and longitudinally (p-values < .04). The main effects of discrimination and acculturation were inconsistently associated with depressive symptoms. Conclusions This preliminary investigation supports that assessment, prevention, and intervention of depression among Latinx adolescents may benefit from taking into account the role of high acculturation on adolescents who have felt discriminated in their schools.

Behavioral and Psychosocial Dynamics in Diabetes Management: A Path Analysis to Examine the Influence of Acculturation in Arab Immigrant Communities.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) prevalence is rising globally. Arab immigrants with T2DM, one of the least studied ethnic minorities, have a higher diabetes prevalence and more prominent management-related challenges compared with mainstream host societies. Acculturation's impact on self-care activities and diabetes distress (DD) is understudied globally. To examine how acculturation affects self-care practices and DD in first-generation Arab immigrants with T2DM and how health literacy, illness perceptions, and self-efficacy mediate these associations. This multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted in Victoria, Australia. Eligible patients were invited while waiting for their appointments. The questionnaire included validated tools to assess DD, self-care activities, health literacy, self-efficacy, and acculturation. We tested mediation hypothesis using path analysis, with a maximum likelihood estimation to calculate total, direct, and indirect effects and bias-corrected accelerated 95% CI. Overall, 382 Arab immigrants with T2DM participated, with an average age of 57.9 years (SD = 8.0). Half were males, most had low education, and were married. Participants lived in Australia for a mean of 19.1 years (SD = 8.3) and had diabetes for 7.1 years (SD =4.7). Higher acculturation was directly associated with decreased DD. Illness perceptions (p = .002) and self-efficacy (p = .001) mediated the association of acculturation with self-care activities, while health literacy did not. Additionally, self-efficacy fully mediated the relationship between acculturation and DD (p = .001). This research provided valuable insights into the complex interplay between acculturation, diabetes management, and psychosocial factors. Interventions targeting self-efficacy and illness perceptions may improve self-care activities and reduce DD among Arab immigrants with T2DM.

Abstract B072: Physical activity among South Asian mother-daughter dyads residing in the U.S.: Influence of U.S. and Asian acculturation

Abstract Background: Engaging regularly in physical activity (PA) can lower cancer risks. Existing literature shows that South Asian women and girls residing in the U.S. have low moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA); however, there is little research on the influence of unique sociocultural determinants such as acculturation on PA. Even less is known about the association between acculturation and PA in South Asian mother-daughter dyads, especially where the two have different acculturation levels. Methods: Data came from the baseline assessment of the South Asians Active Together (SAATH) trial, a two-arm randomized clinical trial of an 8-week culturally adapted intervention to increase PA among South Asian mothers and daughters. Mainstream U.S. acculturation and Asian acculturation were measured for each separately using the Suinn-Lew Asian Self Identity Acculturation Scale (SL-ASIA; range 1-5, higher scores indicate higher acculturation). (Mainstream U.S. acculturation corresponds to the “Western” acculturation construct in SL-ASIA; here we refer to that same concept using a more nuanced term that better reflects the complexities of acculturation for immigrants in the U.S.) PA variables include PA barriers, PA self-efficacy, self-reported transportation and leisure-time MVPA, and accelerometer-measured MVPA (minutes/day). Using the Actor Partner Interdependence Model (APIM) in R (version 4.4) and controlling for age as a covariate, we tested dyadic associations between mothers’ and daughters’ mainstream U.S. and Asian acculturation and PA variables. Results: The baseline assessment included 126 mother-daughter dyads. On average, participants’ Asian acculturation score (M=4.5, SD=0.6 for mothers; M=3.9, SD=0.8 for daughters) was higher than U.S. acculturation score (M=3.1, SD=1.0 for mothers; M=3.4, SD=0.8 for daughters). In APIM analyses, for daughters, higher U.S. acculturation was associated with lower PA barriers (β=-0.20), and higher Asian acculturation was associated with higher PA self-efficacy (β=0.18). For mothers, higher U.S. acculturation was associated with lower PA barriers (β=-0.20) and higher PA self-efficacy (β=0.21). For mothers, higher Asian acculturation was also associated with lower PA barriers (β=-0.23), higher PA self-efficacy (β=0.36), and higher accelerometer-measured MVPA (β=26.71). Interestingly, mothers’ Asian acculturation was also positively associated with daughters’ PA self-efficacy (β=0.16). Conclusion: We observed positive associations of both U.S. and Asian acculturation with several PA-related variables among South Asian mothers and daughters, which underscores the importance of bilinear acculturation measurements and influences on PA. Mothers’ Asian acculturation was associated with daughters’ PA self-efficacy, which merits further exploration. Citation Format: Milkie Vu, Soyang Kwon, Nicola Lancki, Rency Roy, Mudita Rastogi, David Marquez, Namratha Kandula. Physical activity among South Asian mother-daughter dyads residing in the U.S.: Influence of U.S. and Asian acculturation [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr B072.

A Latent Profile Analysis of COVID-19 and Influenza Vaccine Hesitancy among Economically Marginalized Hispanic Mothers of Children under Five Years of Age in the US.

Rates of COVID-19 and influenza vaccine coverage among Hispanic young children continue to be low in comparison to other racial and ethnic groups in the United States. This study utilized a person-centered approach to understand COVID-19 and influenza vaccination hesitancy for young children under the age of five among 309 economically marginalized Hispanic mothers. Drawing on the cultural health belief model, in 2022, following FDA approval of the COVID-19 vaccine for young children, a latent profile analysis was conducted from which three profiles emerged. The Low Acculturation group (Profile 1), was notable for lower acculturation, moderate cultural medical mistrust, lower access to vaccines, and higher financial security. Compared to Profile 1, the two remaining profiles had higher acculturation and lower levels of financial security, but differed in that the High Acculturation group (Profile 2) had higher vaccine accessibility and the Moderate Acculturation group (Profile 3) had higher cultural medical mistrust. Relative to other profiles, Low Acculturation mothers were more likely to plan to vaccinate their child against current and seasonal COVID-19 and seasonal influenza, report that their child's health provider recommended the COVID-19 shot and reported lower COVID-19 and influenza vaccine mistrust. However, they also reported lower vaccine accessibility and moderate levels of cultural medical mistrust. The study highlights the importance of developing person-centered public health strategies that draw on Hispanic cultural values and consider diversity within lower income Hispanic populations to increase future pediatric COVID-19 and flu vaccination coverage among young Hispanic children.

The Impact of Acculturation on Skin Cancer Risk and Protective Behaviors in Hispanic Populations.

The US Hispanic population faces rising skin cancer risks and poorer clinical outcomes, despite lower incidence rates. Acculturation, adopting elements of the dominant culture, may influence skin cancer attitudes and behaviors among Hispanics. We systematically reviewed PubMed articles from 2000 to 2023. Peer-reviewed English articles that assessed the relationship between acculturation and skin cancer in the Hispanic population were included. Andreeva et al. observed that lower acculturation levels correlated with increased use of shade and protective clothing (P < 0.05). More acculturated Latinos were more likely to use sunscreen, but this association weakened after adjusting for covariates (P > 0.48). Heckman et al. highlighted significant differences in skin cancer concern among Hispanic youth, with less acculturated individuals expressing greater worry (P < 0.05). Coups et al. found that higher acculturation was linked to less sun protective clothing usage and more frequent sunburns. Their subsequent online survey indicated that English-acculturated Hispanics engaged less in protective behaviors. Viola et al. reported that English-acculturated Hispanics perceived greater suntan benefits and had lower perceptions of skin cancer risk, severity, and concerns about photo-aging, along with higher melanoma risk factors, compared to Spanish-acculturated Hispanics. Acculturation influences skin cancer attitudes and behaviors in Hispanics. Tailored interventions based on acculturation levels are essential to reduce skin cancer risk. For example, educating English-acculturated Hispanics about skin cancer risks and prioritizing knowledge dissemination for Spanish-acculturated individuals may be effective approaches. These findings emphasize the need for targeted skin cancer prevention efforts to address disparities among US Hispanics.

Retirement status and physical activity in US adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus: Influence of sex, race/ethnicity and acculturation level

AimsWe aimed to assess the association between retirement status and recreational physical activity (rPA) in US adults with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), while accounting for potential modification effects. MethodsWe extracted data from the 2007–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. We used logistic regression models to evaluate the association between self-reported retirement status and high rPA (i.e., at least 150 min/week). We reported adjusted odds ratio (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). We estimated the modification effect of sex, race/ethnicity, and acculturation level by including interaction terms into the models. ResultsOf the 992 U.S. adults with T2DM, 34.8% was retired. As a whole, retirement was associated with high rPA (aOR=1.87 [95% CI: 1.16–3.00]; P = 0.0110). Retirement was associated with high odds of rPA in females (aOR=2.07 [95% CI, 1.14, 3.73], P = 0.0171), in non-Hispanic whites (aOR=2.57 [95% CI, 1.32, 5.00], P = 0.0062), and in those with high acculturation level (aOR=1.85 [95% CI, 1.07, 3.19], P = 0.0273). We observed no significant statistical interactions. ConclusionsRetirement is associated with a high participation to rPA in US adults with T2DM, and the amplitude varies by sex, race/ethnicity and acculturation level. Intervention for improving rPA in adults with T2DM should collect and consider information on retirement status.

What matters for weight loss in behavioral trials in the Latinx community: Learnings from three randomized controlled trials

BackgroundNearly half of Latinx adults in the US are obese, making effective weight loss interventions crucial to prevent associated chronic conditions. ObjectiveTo identify factors associated with increased session attendance and clinically significant weight loss among Latinx adults. ParticipantsLatinx participants from the Vivamos Activos (n = 207), Vida Sana (n = 191), and HOMBRE (n = 424 Latinx men) randomized clinical trials. DesignPost-hoc analysis of randomized controlled trial data. InterventionCulturally-adapted behavioral weight loss interventions based on the Diabetes Prevention Program among Latinx adults over 12 months. Main outcome measureDemographic, clinical, and psychosocial predictors of session attendance and 5% weight loss at 12-months. Statistical analysis performedBi-variable associations between baseline characteristics and outcomes were tested with chi-square and t-tests. Those with p-value< 0.15 were then included in stepwise logistic regressions. ResultsParticipants (N = 822) were middle age with diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. Older age in the Vivamos Activos and Vida Sana trials, and lower acculturation in the HOMBRE trial were significant predictors of increased session attendance. Factors associated with 5% weight loss varied by trials. These included younger age (OR 0.96 95% CI 0.92, 0.99) in Vivamos Activos, higher acculturation (OR 1.88 95% CI 1.05, 3.37) in Vida Sana, and higher education (OR 3.20 95% CI 1.3, 7.03) and greater body image dissatisfaction (OR 1.29, 95% CI 1.04, 1.6), and lower acculturation (0.69 95% CI 0.5, 0.96) in HOMBRE. ConclusionsFew and conflicting baseline characteristics were associated with session attendance and clinically significant weight loss, suggesting that alternative approaches to optimizing interventions are needed.

Association between acculturation, dental floss use, dental visits and unmet dental needs among Asians in the United States: Findings from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011-2018.

The objectives of this study were to examine the associations between acculturation and dental floss, regular dental visits and unmet dental care needs among Asian Americans, as well as the moderating effects of these associations. This study analysed national representative samples from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011-2018. A total of 2763 Asian Americans aged 20 and older were included in this analysis. The primary predictor, acculturation score, was determined by three questions: (i) language spoken at home (higher score for English), (ii) country of birth (higher score for United States) and (iii) length of time in the United States. Dental floss use, dental visits and unmet dental care needs were included as outcomes in this study. Descriptive statistics and logistic regressions were used to analyse the samples. Acculturation was significantly associated with dental health behaviours: Individuals with higher levels of acculturation were more likely than less acculturated individuals to use dental floss (81.0% vs. 63.9%, respectively) and visit the dentist regularly (76.7% vs. 66.9% respectively). Insurance status moderated the association between acculturation and dental visits: Acculturation was significantly associated with dental visits in the past year among insured individuals (OR = 1.70, 95% CI: 1.29-2.23), but not among uninsured individuals. Unmet dental care needs were present in 11.1% of participants. While costs and insurance were the top two determinants of access to care, individuals with and without insurance differed with regard to their third major reason for unmet dental care needs: Being 'too busy' and not wanting to spend money on dental care. Among the Asian population in the United States, those with high acculturation scores were more likely to engage in dental flossing and visit the dentist regularly compared to those Asians with lower acculturation scores. To encourage dental flossing and regular dental visits among Asians with lower acculturation scores, cultural adaptation and language accessibility suggests being considered. Future research is necessary to confirm the moderating effect of insurance status on the association between acculturation and regular dental visits. Additionally, our findings emphasize the impact of costs and insurance on access to dental care among Asians in the United States, highlighting the importance of future public health programmes in addressing these barriers.

Acculturation as a Determinant of Obesity and Related Lifestyle Behaviors in a Multi-Ethnic Asian Population.

Limited attention has been given to the role of cultural orientation towards different ethnic groups in multi-ethnic settings without a dominant host culture. We evaluated whether acculturation levels, reflecting cultural orientation towards other ethnic groups, were associated with obesity and related lifestyle behaviors in a cosmopolitan Asian population. We conducted the current study based on data from the Singapore Multi-Ethnic Cohort (N = 10,622) consisting of ethnic Chinese, Malays, and Indians aged 21 to 75 years. Multivariable linear and logistic regression analyses were used to examine associations between the acculturation level (z-score), obesity, and related lifestyle behaviors, including dietary habits and physical activity. A higher acculturation level was directly associated with a higher prevalence of obesity among Chinese, whereas an inverse association was found for ethnic Indians, and no significant association in Malays. In ethnic Malays, greater acculturation was significantly associated with higher dietary quality and less sedentary time. Furthermore, a high acculturation level was significantly associated with higher sugar-sweetened beverage consumption and more leisure-time PA in all ethnic groups. Our findings suggest that greater cultural orientation towards other ethnic groups was associated with convergence in obesity levels. More research is required to understand how acculturation affects obesity-related lifestyle factors in multi-ethnic settings.

Social Media Utilization Within Asian American Families and Its Role in Healthy Lifestyle Behavioral Influence: Results From a Nationwide Survey

Objective: Social media platforms are effective tools for promoting public health and implementing impactful health interventions. This study explored social media utilization patterns among young Asian American adults and their effect on perceived family influence on lifestyle behaviors. Methods: The study analyzes data from Asian American young adults (aged 18–35 years) participating in an online survey in March 2021. Results: A total of 739 Asian Americans participated in the survey: 45.6% East Asian, 23.4% Southeast Asian, and 22.7% South Asian. Common social media platforms include Facebook Messenger (60.9%) and Instagram (57.0%). US-born Asian Americans reported higher odds of using Instagram (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.64, 95% CI: [1.09, 2.46]) than foreign-born Asian Americans. Higher acculturation was associated with lower odds of using Instagram among South Asians (AOR: .46, 95% CI: [.24, .83]) and greater odds of using Instagram among East Asians (AOR: 1.72, 95% CI: [1.09, 2.75]). Interacting with mothers using Facebook and Instagram had a higher perceived influence on one’s ability to improve sleep (AOR: 2.08, 95% CI: [1.19, 3.65]; AOR: 2.53, 95% CI: [1.15, 5.55]) and develop stress-management strategies (AOR: 1.73, 95% CI: [1.02, 2.96]; AOR: 4.05, 95% CI: [1.83, 9.49]). With one’s siblings, Facebook was associated with a lower perceived influence on avoiding risky substances (AOR: .48, 95% CI: [.23, .97]), and WhatsApp was associated with a higher perceived influence on one’s ability to develop stress-management strategies (AOR: 3.10, 95% CI: [1.26, 7.78]) and form/maintain relationships (AOR: 2.58, 95% CI: [1.02, 6.58]). No significant findings with father interactions were observed. Conclusion: Findings provide evidence for researchers seeking to tailor social media–based interpersonal health interventions to address the unique needs of diverse Asian American communities.

Similarities and Dissimilarities in Diet Quality Differences by Acculturation Level between Mexican Americans and Other Hispanic Americans: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2015–2018

BackgroundEvidence suggests dietary acculturation can increase obesity and chronic disease risks. However, acculturation effects on diet quality among subgroups of Hispanic Americans is not well studied. ObjectivesEstimating percentages of Hispanic Americans with low, moderate, and high acculturation using 2 proxy measures with different language variables was the first objective. Identifying similarities and dissimilarities in diet quality differences by acculturation level between Mexican Americans and other Hispanic Americans was the second objective. MethodsThe study sample included 1733 Mexican American and 1191 other Hispanic participants aged ≥16 y from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2015–2018. Proxy measures included in the 2 acculturation scales were nativity/United States residence length, immigration age, language spoken at home (home), and language of dietary recall (recall). Replicate 24-h dietary recalls were conducted, and diet quality was assessed using the 2015 Healthy Eating Index. Analyses included statistical methods for complex survey designs. ResultsFor Mexican Americans, 8%, 35%, and 58% had low, moderate, and high acculturation on the home scale compared with 8%, 30%, and 62% on the recall scale. For other Hispanics, 17%, 39%, and 43% had low, moderate, and high acculturation on the home scale compared with 18%, 34%, and 48% on the recall scale. Similarities between ethnicities included higher acculturation associated with lower intakes of fruits, vegetables, total protein foods, seafood and plant proteins, and saturated fats and greater intake of sodium. Dissimilarities included higher acculturation associated with more whole grains and added sugars intakes and less refined grains intake (Mexican Americans), and less total dairy and fatty acids intakes (other Hispanic Americans). ConclusionsHigher acculturation is associated with worsening diet quality for fruits, vegetables, and protein foods in all Hispanic Americans. However, associations of higher acculturation with worsening diet quality for grains, added sugars, dairy, and fatty acids were present only in specific subgroups of Hispanic Americans.

Cultural Competence in L2 Pronunciation Acquisition

This study explored the possible relationship between L2 cultural competence and pronunciation proficiency in seven advanced learners of English as a foreign language (EFL). Three methods were used in this study regarding the participants’ learning experience, pronunciation proficiency, and cultural competence. Their learning experience data were collected through unstructured interviews via WhatsApp (i.e., a smartphone application mainly used for text messaging). Pronunciation proficiency was tested using Brooks’ (1999) pronunciation test, which assesses the mastery of four main aspects: blending sounds, stress, intonation, and rhythm. Berry’s (1980) East Asian Acculturate Measure (EAAM) was used to measure their cultural competence level. The findings showed that the selected participants adapted integrative and assimilation acculturation strategies. The two strategies show high acculturation levels, indicating L2 cultural competence in Fenner’s (2000) classification of cultural exposure outcomes. The pronunciation test implied that the participants mastered English sound blending, stress, intonation, and rhythm. Considering that external factors other than acculturation were controlled, the study concluded that their high acculturation predicts their pronunciation proficiency.

Relationships among Acculturation Using 2 Different Language Variables, Diet Quality, and Accuracy of Diet Quality Assessment in Non-Hispanic Asians Residing in the United States

BackgroundEvidence suggests that acculturation can increase risks of poor diet, obesity, and chronic diseases. Yet questions remain regarding acculturation proxy measures and associations with diet quality in Asian Americans. ObjectivesPrimary objectives included estimating percentages of Asian Americans with low, moderate, and high acculturation using 2 proxy measures of acculturation based on different language variables and determining if diet quality differences existed among acculturation levels using the 2 proxy acculturation measures. MethodsStudy sample included 1275 Asian participants aged ≥16 y from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2015–2018. Nativity/length of United States residence, immigration age, language spoken at home (home), and language of dietary recall (recall) were used as proxy measures for 2 acculturation scales. Replicate 24-h dietary recalls were conducted and diet quality was assessed using 2015 Healthy Eating Index. Statistical methods for complex survey designs were used for analysis. ResultsUsing home and recall language, 26% compared with 9% of participants were classified with low, 50% compared with 63% with moderate, and 24% compared with 28% with high acculturation. On the home language scale, participants with low and/or moderate acculturation had higher scores (0.5–5.5 points) for vegetables, fruits, whole grains, seafood and plant protein, saturated fats, added sugars, and total 2015 Healthy Eating Index than participants with high acculturation; participants with low acculturation had lower refined grain score (1.2 points) than participants with high acculturation. Results were similar for the recall language scale, except differences between participants with moderate and high acculturation were also observed for fatty acids. ConclusionsAlthough percentages of Asian Americans classified with low, moderate, and high acculturation differed between the 2 proxy measures for acculturation, diet quality differences among acculturation groups were remarkably similar between the 2 proxy measures. Hence, use of either language variables may yield comparable results regarding the relationships between acculturation and diet in Asian Americans.

IMMIGRATION EXPERIENCES AND COGNITIVE TRAJECTORIES AMONG OLDER CHINESE IMMIGRANTS

Abstract Some studies have documented cognitive health among older immigrants in the United States; however, little is known about how the life-course immigration experiences were associated with cognitive trajectories among older Chinese immigrants. This study filled the research gap by identifying the patterns of cognitive change trajectory among older Chinese immigrants and examining the associations of immigration experiences (that is, age at migration, reasons for migration, acculturation, perceived discrimination, and preferred dialects) with cognitive trajectories. The sample comprised 2,075 participants from the Population Study of Chinese Elderly (PINE), who completed a battery of cognitive tests at four time points (2011-2019). Latent class growth analysis and multinomial logistic regression were utilized. Three latent classes of cognitive trajectories were identified: the low functioning with the fastest decline (LCF, 12%), the moderate functioning with a medium decline rate (MCF, 39%), and the high functioning with the slowest decline (HCF, 48%). Perceiving more discrimination reduced, while speaking Taishanese increased the odds of being in the LCF and MCF. High acculturation only distinguished MCF from HCF after controlling for the known factors of cognition such as age, education, and social engagement. This study identifies a group of older Chinese immigrants who are especially vulnerable to cognitive impairment, and indicates that the immigration-related risks for cognitive decline, such as late-life migration and lower acculturation, could be buffered by education in early life and social engagement post immigration. Practice and policy efforts are needed to increase socioeconomic and cultural opportunities for social integration among older immigrants.

Prevalence of electronic cigarette use and its determinants in us persons of Hispanic/Latino background: The Hispanic community health study / study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL)

ObjectiveTo determine the prevalence and determinants of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) use among Hispanic/Latino adults from the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL). MethodsCross-sectional data collected between the years 2015–2017 were analyzed to assess ENDS use (ever (current: use ≤ past 30 days; former: use > past 30 days) and never) among 11,623 adults (mean age 47 years±0.3 years; 52% women). Weighted prevalence estimates were reported, and age-adjusted logistic regression models were used to examine associations between sociodemographic and clinical exposures with ENDS use. ResultsThe prevalence of current and former ENDS use was 2.0% and 10.4%, respectively. Having ever used ENDS was associated with prevalent coronary artery disease. Current ENDS use was higher in males and associated with higher education, English language preference, and Puerto Rican background compared with nonsmokers and cigarette-only smokers (all p<0.05). ConclusionsHispanic/Latino individuals who are young adults, male, US-born, and have high acculturation were more likely to report current ENDS use. These findings could inform preventive and regulatory interventions targeted to Hispanics/Latinos.

Higher Diet Quality in Latina Women during Pregnancy May Be Associated with Sociodemographic Factors.

Acculturation contributes to low diet quality and can foster health inequities for Latina women during pregnancy. Conversely, nutrition literacy (NL) increases diet quality and could promote health equity. This study assessed the associations between the diet quality, acculturation, and NL of Latina women (n = 99) participating in the Assessment of Docosahexaenoic Acid On Reducing Early Preterm Birth (ADORE) study. Acculturation and nutrition literacy factored together tended to modify diet quality, but this was not statistically significant. Diet quality was associated with acculturation, age, and nativity. Most (76.8%) demonstrated low nutrition literacy. Women who were bicultural and were born in Latin American countries other than Mexico had lower diet quality scores than women who had lower acculturation and were born in Mexico. Women who were 35 years or older had better diet quality than those who were younger. Future studies are needed to explore diet quality differences for pregnant Latina women with high nutrition literacy and high acculturation, as well as for women from the Caribbean, Central and South American countries living in the US, to promote nutrition and maternal health for Latina women.

The Association Between Acculturation and Diet and Physical Activity Among Pregnant Hispanic Women with Abnormal Glucose Tolerance.

Background: Hispanic women are disproportionately affected by gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), yet few studies have assessed the impact of acculturation on health behaviors that may reduce GDM risk. Materials and Methods: We assessed relationships between acculturation and meeting American Diabetes Association guidelines for macronutrient intake and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists guidelines for physical activity (PA) using baseline data from Estudio Project Aiming to Reduce Type twO diabetes, a randomized trial conducted in Massachusetts (2013-2017) among 255 Hispanic pregnant women with hyperglycemia. Acculturation was assessed via the Psychological Acculturation Scale, duration of time and generation in the continental United States, and language preference; diet with 24-hours dietary recalls; and PA with the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire (PPAQ). Results: The majority of participants who reported low psychological acculturation (74.9%), preferred English (78.4%), were continental U.S. born (58.0%), and lived in the continental United States ≥5 years (91.4%). A total of 44.8%, 81.8%, 22.9%, and 4.6% of women met guidelines for carbohydrate, protein, fat, and fiber intakes, respectively; 31.9% met guidelines for PA. Women with higher acculturation were less likely to meet carbohydrate guidelines (English preference: adjusted risk ratios [aRR] 0.45, 95% confidence intervals [CI] 0.23-0.75; U.S. born: aRR 0.60, 95% CI 0.36-0.91; duration of time in United States: aRR 0.96, 95% CI 0.92-0.99). Women with higher acculturation were more likely to meet PA guidelines (U.S. born: aRR 1.95, 95% CI 1.11-3.44). Conclusions: In summary, higher acculturation was associated with lower likelihood of meeting dietary guidelines but greater likelihood of meeting PA guidelines during pregnancy. Interventions aimed at reducing GDM in Hispanics should be culturally informed and incorporate acculturation. Clinical Trial Registration: clinicaltrials.gov NCT01679210.

Immigration Experience and Cognitive Function Trajectories Among Older Chinese Immigrants.

Although a number of studies have documented cognitive health among older immigrants in the United States, little is known about how the life-course immigration experiences are associated with cognitive trajectories among older Chinese immigrants. We assess patterns of cognitive functioning and change over time and examine whether age at migration, reasons for migration, acculturation, perceived discrimination, and preferred dialects are related to cognitive trajectories. The sample comprised 2,075 participants from the Population Study of Chinese Elderly (PINE), who completed a battery of cognitive tests at four time points (2011-2019). Latent class growth analysis and multinomial logistic regression were utilized. Three latent classes of cognitive trajectories were identified: the low functioning with the fastest decline (LCF, 12%), the moderate functioning with a medium decline rate (MCF, 39%), and the high functioning with the slowest decline (HCF, 48%). Perceiving more discrimination reduced, whereas speaking Taishanese increased the odds of being in the LCF and MCF. High acculturation only distinguished MCF from HCF after controlling for the known factors of cognitive health such as age, education, and social engagement. This study identifies a group of older Chinese immigrants who are especially vulnerable to cognitive impairment and indicates that the risk of cognitive decline appears to be elevated with lower levels of acculturation and unidentified racial discrimination. More research is needed to fully understand the underlying mechanisms that link the life-course immigration experiences to cognitive health outcomes in later life.

Exploring the role of acculturation in promoting genetic testing in the Latinx community (417)

<b>Objectives:</b> Rates of genetic testing in Latinx women have historically been low. To understand the reason, we evaluated factors contributing to Hispanic/Latinx women's decision to seek out and undergo germline genetic testing. We assessed whether acculturation levels in community members and current patients of a comprehensive cancer center (CCC) gynecologic oncology practice were associated with attitudes toward genetic testing. We hypothesized that mental health, acculturation, and comfort with providers would influence decisions leading to genetic testing in both groups of women. <b>Methods:</b> From February 2020 to September 2020, a survey was offered concurrently to Latinx female patients at a CCC gynecologic oncology practice and members of a Latinx community group unaffiliated with a cancer care center. The survey focused on demographic, financial, psychosocial, and acculturation factors. Validated scales were utilized, including the PHQ-9, GAD-7, and the BASH acculturation scale. <b>Results:</b> Of the 148 surveys collected, half were collected in the clinic and half in community settings; 42% were completed in Spanish and 58% in English. Most participants (54%) were of reproductive age (<50 years old), 22% attended no school in the US, 50% had some college/ vocational education, 16.5% had a BA or more in the US, and 66% had low levels of acculturation. Moreover, 29% of the women were unemployed or did not earn an income, 10% were uninsured, 50% had government-subsidized insurance, and 40% had private insurance. Most (68%) did not carry a diagnosis of cancer. Women with higher acculturation had the higher testing intention (r_s=.54, <i>p</i>=0.001). Older women were more likely to have a cancer diagnosis but less likely to get genetic testing; however, those who had exposure to a cancer diagnosis (self and close to them) were more likely to get tested if they had lower acculturation (r_s=37, <i>p</i>=0.03). There was no correlation between mental health (depression or anxiety) and genetic testing in the overall group. However, women above reproductive age with higher anxiety had higher testing intentions (r_s=.21, <i>p</i>=0.048). Women under 50 with lower acculturation were more likely to have genetic testing intentions if they had a female physician (<i>p</i>=0.02), a Hispanic/Latinx physician (<i>p</i><0.001), or a Spanish-speaking physician (<i>p</i><0.001). <b>Conclusions:</b> Age and acculturation determined if participants were more open to testing, with patterns complicated by exposure to cancer. But for those with lower acculturation, the person to share this information with them mattered (female, Latino, Spanish speaking). Given this sensitive subject, it was important that the women felt comfortable talking/connecting to their providers and trusting the information given. Diversifying the physician pool to reflect the patient population could potentially improve genetic testing rates in the Latinx population. This is especially important in areas with high Latinx populations and high immigration.

"Acculturation, coping, and PTSD in Hispanic 9/11 rescue and recovery workers": Correction.

Reports an error in "Acculturation, coping, and PTSD in Hispanic 9/11 rescue and recovery workers" by Dianne Ciro, Robert H. Pietrzak, Rufina J. Lee, Janice Rodriguez, Ritika Singh, Ryan Salim, Clyde B. Schechter, Steven M. Southwick, Michael Crane, Denise J. Harrison, Benjamin J. Luft, Jacqueline M. Moline, Iris G. Udasin and Adriana Feder (Psychological Trauma: Theory, Research, Practice, and Policy, 2021[Jan], Vol 13[1], 84-93). In the original article, the following acknowledgment of funding was missing in the author note: "This study was supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention/National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (Research Contract 200-2011-41919). Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of CDC/NIOSH. This funding source had no role in study design; in the collection, analysis and interpretation of data; in the writing of the report; or in the decision to submit the paper for publication." The online version of this article has been corrected. (The following abstract of the original article appeared in record 2021-00489-003). Objective: Research examining the responders of the World Trade Center terrorist attacks of 9/11 has found that Hispanic responders are at greater risk for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than non-Hispanic White responders. However, no studies have examined how acculturation may influence the relationship between coping and PTSD in Hispanic 9/11 responders. This novel study is the first to examine differences in coping and PTSD among Hispanic responders by level of acculturation. Methods: The sample is composed of 845 Hispanic 9/11 responders who were seen at the World Trade Center Health Program and participated in a web-based survey. Using logistic and multiple linear regression, we examined how acculturation is related to their coping strategies and risk for PTSD. We also tested for interaction to examine whether level of acculturation moderated the relationship between coping and PTSD symptom severity. Results: Key findings revealed that higher acculturation is associated with the use of substances, venting, and humor to cope, while lower acculturation is associated with the use of active coping and self-distraction in this sample. We also found that less acculturated responders were more likely to experience more severe PTSD. Lastly, our findings revealed that Hispanics who are more acculturated and used substances to cope had more severe PTSD than less acculturated responders. Conclusion: These findings highlight the need to consider the role of acculturation in Hispanic responders' coping and PTSD. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).