Migration and Cognitive Health Disparities in Arab Americans
Author Information
Author(s): Al-Rousan Tala, Moore Alison, Sideman Alissa Bernstein, Ajrouch Kristine, Kamalyan Lily
Primary Institution: University of California San Diego
Hypothesis
Does the year of arrival to the U.S. and birthplace relate to postmigration cognitive difficulties among Arab Americans?
Conclusion
Foreign-born Arabs reported higher odds of cognitive difficulty compared to U.S.-born Arabs, with variations based on arrival year and birthplace.
Supporting Evidence
- Foreign-born Arabs reported higher odds of cognitive difficulty compared to U.S.-born Arabs across all arrival cohorts.
- Those who arrived between 1991 and 2000 had higher odds of cognitive difficulty.
- Those who arrived after 2001 had lower odds of cognitive difficulty.
- Lacking English proficiency was related to higher odds of cognitive difficulty.
- Not being a U.S. citizen was associated with lower odds of cognitive difficulty.
- Migrants born in Iraq consistently reported the highest odds of cognitive difficulty.
Takeaway
This study found that when Arab Americans move to the U.S., their chances of having trouble with thinking and memory can depend on when they arrived and where they are from.
Methodology
Analyzed 19 years of data from the American Community Survey, focusing on cognitive difficulties reported by Arab Americans aged 50 and older.
Participant Demographics
Arab Americans aged 50 and older, including both foreign- and U.S.-born individuals.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI = 1.00, 1.19
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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