Exploring differences in self-rated health among Blacks, Whites, Mexicans, and Puerto Ricans

Abstract

Objectives. Self-rated health (SRH) is a robust predictor of subsequent health and mortality. Although age, gender, and race differences in SRH have been explored, less work has examined ethnic differences, particularly in the US.

Design. The current study uses representative data from six Chicago communities to compare levels and determinants of fair–poor health for Blacks, Whites, Mexicans, and Puerto Ricans (n=1311).

Results. Mexicans and Puerto Ricans were at least three times more likely to report fair or poor health than Whites, while African-Americans were over twice as likely. In adjusted logistic regression models, only Mexicans remain significantly more likely to report fair–poor health than Whites (OR = 4.3, CI = 1.8–9.8). However, this effect disappears when controlling for acculturation. No variable predicted poor subjective health for all groups, though depression was associated with poor health for most.

Conclusion. Together, these analyses suggest that the single item measure of SRH might not be appropriate for comparing health status across members of different race/ethnic groups. More research is needed to understand what factors influence how an individual perceives his or her health.

Keywords:

• self-rated health
• subjective health
• ethnicity
• Hispanic
• African-American
• acculturation

Acknowledgements

The Sinai Community Health Survey was completed with generous funding from The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Grant ID# 043026 and the Chicago Community Trust Grant ID# C2003-00844. We would also like to acknowledge the support of the Michael Reese Health Trust and the Frederick and Florence Roe Health Policy Fund.