The proposed research will contribute to knowledge about racial/ethnic inequalities in health by exploring the nativity paradox - the fact that foreign born mothers, on average, have better birth outcomes than native born mothers of similar socioeconomic status. Using pooled data from three recent studies, we will systematically investigate the extent to which immigrant selectivity contributes to the nativity paradox and we will also test """"""""acculturation"""""""" and """"""""weathering"""""""" theories by investigating the effects of age at arrival in the U.S. versus duration of residence in the U.S. on birth outcomes. Understanding how the health of immigrants is affected after immigration to the U.S will provide a window into the determinants of racial and ethnic disparities in health in the U.S.

Public Health Relevance

The proposed research will increase knowledge and information about the causes of disparities in birth outcomes among members of minority groups. This new knowledge should lead to more effective interventions for families and subsequently to better birth outcomes and healthier children.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health & Human Development (NICHD)
Type
Small Research Grants (R03)
Project #
5R03HD058067-02
Application #
8035892
Study Section
Pediatrics Subcommittee (CHHD)
Program Officer
Bures, Regina M
Project Start
2010-03-01
Project End
2013-02-28
Budget Start
2011-03-01
Budget End
2013-02-28
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
2011
Total Cost
$75,450
Indirect Cost
Name
Columbia University (N.Y.)
Department
Other Health Professions
Type
Schools of Social Work
DUNS #
049179401
City
New York
State
NY
Country
United States
Zip Code
10027
Teitler, Julien O; Hutto, Nathan; Reichman, Nancy E (2012) Birthweight of children of immigrants by maternal duration of residence in the United States. Soc Sci Med 75:459-68