Sociocultural factors that affect pregnancy outcomes in two Dissimilar Immigrant Groups in the United States

ObjectiveTo compare perinatal risks and outcomes in foreign- and U.S.-born Asian-Indian and Mexican women.Study designWe evaluated 6.4 million U.S. vital records for births during 1995–2000 to white, foreign- and U.S.-born Asian-Indian and Mexican women. Risks and outcomes were compared by use of χ2 and logistic regression.ResultsWith the exception of increased teen pregnancy and tobacco use, the favorable sociodemographic profile and increased rate of adverse outcomes seen in foreign-born Asian Indians persisted in their U.S.-born counterparts. In contrast, foreign-born Mexicans had an adverse sociodemographic profile but a low incidence of low birth weight (LBW), whereas U.S.-born Mexicans had an improved sociodemographic profile and increased LBW, prematurity and neonatal death.ConclusionsPerinatal outcomes deteriorate in U.S.-born Mexican women. In contrast, the paradoxically increased incidence of LBW persists in U.S.-born Asian-Indian women. Further research is needed to identify the social and biologic determinants of perinatal outcome.