TitleLifestyle Behaviors Predict Negative and Positive Changes in Self-reported Health: The Role of Immigration to the United States for Koreans.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2015
AuthorsBaron-Epel, O, C Hofstetter, R, Irvin, VL, Kang, S, Hovell, MF
JournalAsia Pac J Public Health
Volume27
Issue7
Pagination775-84
Date Published10/2015
ISSN1941-2479
KeywordsAcculturation, Adult, Asian Americans, California, Diagnostic Self Evaluation, Emigrants and Immigrants, Emigration and Immigration, Fast Foods, Female, Follow-Up Studies, Humans, Korea, Life Style, Male, Motor Activity, Smoking, Socioeconomic Factors, United States
Abstract

Studies of changes in health following immigration are inconsistent, and few are based on longitudinal designs to test associations based on change. This study identified factors that predicted changes in self-reported health (SRH) among California residents of Korean descent. A sample of California residents of Korean descent were interviewed and followed-up 2 or 3 times by telephone during 2001-2009. The questionnaires dealt with SRH, lifestyle behaviors (smoking, physical activity, and fast food consumption), and socioeconomic measures. Statistical analysis included random-intercepts longitudinal regression models predicting change in SRH. A similar percentage of respondents reported improved and deteriorating SRH (30.3% and 29.1%, respectively). Smoking, consumption of fast foods, age, percentage of life spent in the United States, and being female were predictors of deteriorating SRH, whereas physical activity, education, and living with a partner were predictive of improvement in SRH. The effect of immigration on SRH is influenced by socioeconomic factors and lifestyle practices. Results support promotion of healthy lifestyle practices among immigrants.

DOI10.1177/1010539515601481
Alternate JournalAsia Pac J Public Health
PubMed ID26307145
Grant ListR01CA105199-01A1 / CA / NCI NIH HHS / United States