Hispanic Women and Physical Activity: An Integrative Review

Abstract

Hispanics/Latinos represent the largest, fastest growing, and youngest minority group in the United States. Although data suggest that most Hispanics/Latinos in the United States tend to be in better health than non-Hispanic Whites (the so-called "Hispanic Paradox"), these relative advantages in health status decrease markedly with the number of years of residence in the United States. Hispanic women or Latinas, in general, report less than recommended levels of physical activity (PA), putting them at greater risk for the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and other chronic illnesses associated with sedentary lifestyles.