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Perceived Discrimination, Psychological Distress and Cardiovascular Risk in Migrants in Spain

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  • María José Martos-Méndez

    (Faculty of Psychology, University of Málaga, 29071 Málaga, Spain)

  • Alba García-Cid

    (Faculty of Psychology, University of Málaga, 29071 Málaga, Spain)

  • Luis Gómez-Jacinto

    (Faculty of Social and Labour Studies, University of Málaga, 29071 Málaga, Spain)

  • Isabel Hombrados-Mendieta

    (Faculty of Psychology, University of Málaga, 29071 Málaga, Spain)

Abstract

The aim of the present study is to determine the effect of discrimination and psychological distress on the cardiovascular health of immigrants, as well as to analyse potential differences based on age, gender, length of residence in host country and geographic origin. The sample was formed by 1714 immigrants from Africa, Eastern Europe and Latin America. Of the sample, 48.7% were men and 51.3% were women. Most relevant results show that discrimination ( t = 4.27; p = 0.000) and psychological distress ( t = 4.35; p = 0.000) experienced by immigrants predict their cardiovascular risk. Furthermore, psychological distress mediates the relation between discrimination and risk ( t = 4.03; p = 0.000). Significant differences between men and women were found, as well as differences based on ethnicity, although to a lesser extent. Age affects the relation between discrimination, psychological distress and arterial hypertension and hypercholesterolemia. Results are notably relevant for the design of preventive health programmes for immigrants and intervention strategies in order to prevent diseases that may imply cardiovascular risks and seriously affect immigrants’ health.

Suggested Citation

  • María José Martos-Méndez & Alba García-Cid & Luis Gómez-Jacinto & Isabel Hombrados-Mendieta, 2020. "Perceived Discrimination, Psychological Distress and Cardiovascular Risk in Migrants in Spain," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 17(12), pages 1-18, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:17:y:2020:i:12:p:4601-:d:376722
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. María José Martos-Méndez & Luis Gómez-Jacinto & Isabel Hombrados-Mendieta & Anabel Melguizo-Garín & Iván Ruiz-Rodríguez, 2022. "Psychosocial and Sociodemographic Determinants Related to Chronic Diseases in Immigrants Residing in Spain," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(7), pages 1-15, March.

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