Mexican American Health: Historical, Social, and Cultural Perspectives helps readers better understand the multifaceted aspects that influence health disparities and inequities confronted by Mexican Americans today. It departs from traditional medical models, introducing readers to a broader, in-depth analysis that considers historical, geopolitical, sociocultural, and economic dimensions of health.
The book delves into theories and models pertinent to Mexican American health, including the examination of social determinants of health, cultural determinants, and theories of health inequalities applicable to Mexican Americans such as the Internal Colonial Model and Critical Race Theory. It also offers an analysis of "upstream" factors that underlie these inequalities, including epigenetics and social epigenetics, which play a role in the intergenerational transmission of health and disease.
Mexican American Health is well-suited for courses in public health, social work, sociology, and ethnic studies, particularly those addressing health disparities, minority health, and Latinx health. It equips readers with the information they need to better understand and assist in dismantling health inequities faced by Mexican Americans.