Exploring the Chronic Illness Experience of Rural-Dwelling Latinos of Mexican Origin

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic illness is a complex and ever-growing phenomenon that is affecting millions of Americans every day, and it is disproportionately experienced by Latinos of Mexican origin. Method: In this quantitative study, the specific aims were to evaluate perceptions of chronic illness(es), locus of control (health and God), health status, and cultural orientation of rural-dwelling Latinos of Mexican origin in Colorado who have one or more chronic illnesses and to explore the relationships existing between these concepts. Results: A sample of 102 varied from overall national statistics for this population in the United States by gender, mean annual income, and education completed. Conclusion: As Latinos of Mexican origin move toward becoming the largest minority population in the United States, it is important to improve the body of nursing science that targets this population.