Effect of Acculturation on Objective Measures of Oral Health in Haitian Immigrants in New York City

Abstract

Acculturation is a complex phenomenon that can serve as a proxy for cultural norms and behaviors affecting care-seeking, prevention behaviors, and, ultimately, health outcomes. The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of acculturation on the oral health of Haitian immigrants in New York City. We hypothesized that acculturation would be a predictor of the oral health status of the participating individuals. An acculturation scale was specifically developed and validated for this study. A sample of 425 adult Haitian immigrants living in NYC was obtained through outreach activities. Oral health examinations were conducted, and a questionnaire was administered to the participants. After adjustment for age, sex, education, income, and marital status, acculturation was negatively associated with measures of decayed teeth, periodontal attachment loss of ≥ 4 mm, and the number of missing teeth. Results suggest a positive impact of acculturation on the oral health status of these individuals.