Maternal and child health

Abstract

This chapter describes the current state of Maternal and Child Health (MCH) in the Arab American community. In areas in which any (national or state) data are available to identify Arab Americans, there is evidence in some cases of disadvantage, advantage, or no difference relative to preterm birth. Key areas lacking ethnic specific data include immunization and health insurance coverage. The validity of these assessments are uncertain due to the existing methods of data acquisition, specifically the ability to decipher Arab ethnicity in data sources. The roles of social and cultural factors are also unclear. Migration and acculturation as well as discrimination are two specific stressors on this population that may impact MCH. This chapter highlights the limitations of current data sources and makes recommendations for enhanced future surveillance of MCH for Arab Americans.