A dominant healthcare practice for many Mexican-Americans is the hot and cold theory of food selection, where illness or trauma may require adjustments in the hot and cold balance of foods to restore body equilibrium. In lower socioeconomic groups is a wide-scale deficiency of vitamin a and iron, as well as lactose intolerance.
Mexican-American birth rates are 3.45 per household compared to 2.6 per household among other minority groups (Chapa & Valencia, 1993 as cited in Purnell & Paulanka, 1998). Multiple births are common, particularly in the economically disadvantaged groups. Men see a larger number of children as evidence of their virility. If a woman does not conceive by the age of 24, it may be considered too late. Given their predominant Catholic beliefs, the tendency is only to use acceptable forms of birth control, although many will use other unacceptable forms. Abortion is morally wrong. Family planning is an important area, where healthcare providers can identify more realistic outcomes that are consistent with current economic resources and family goals. Since pregnancy is deemed natural and desirable, many women do not seek prenatal evaluations nor do many know that prenatal care is so essential. Healthcare providers need to encourage female relatives and husbands to accompany the pregnant woman for health screening and incorporate advice from family members into health teaching and preventative care services.
Mexican-Americans often face death stoically as a natural part of life (Purnell & Paulanka, 1998), and death practices are an adaptation of their religious views. Once again, family is very much involved with the event, spending time with the dying person and gathering together for a "velorio," a festive watch over the body before burial. Some Mexican-Americans bury the body within 24 hours, which is required by law in Mexico. Autopsy is acceptable as long as the body is treated with respect, cremation is an individual choice. Although Catholicism is the primary religion, other religions are followed as in Selena (Nava, 1997), who was a Jehovah Witness. Indian practices can also be incorporated into some beliefs. Some Mexican-Americans continue to follow the practice of having two marriage ceremonies, particularly in poorer areas. First a civil ceremony is performed; later, when enough money is saved, a celebration is held at a church.
The family is viewed as the most credible source for health...
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