Journal of Sociology and Social Work

Acculturation and Its Influence on the Chronic Condition Prevalence in the Asian American Population
Hideki Morooka

Abstract
Asian Americans are considered the healthiest group among all the racial and ethnic groups in the United States. However, do they still enjoy the health advantage in terms of chronic conditions? How do the length of residence in the United States and nativity status affect the health of Asian Americans? The differences by Asian ethnicities are also explored. By using data drawn from the National Health Interview Survey, this research examines the prevalence of chronic conditions among Asian Americans as part of their adaptation process within the American mainstream culture after years of residence in the United States, as compared to their native-born counterparts. The findings suggest that the longer Asian Americans stay in the United States, the more likely that their lifestyle approaches one that reflects the mainstream American culture, and that the positive health effects gradually diminish. Some subgroups of more acculturated Asian Americans show a higher prevalence of diabetes than that of the non-Hispanic whites and the total U.S. population.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/jssw.v7n1a8