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COVID-19 Prevalence, Risk Perceptions, and Preventive Behavior in Asymptomatic Latino Population: A Cross-Sectional
Lina Karout1, Ayna Serwat2,3, Huda El Mais4
1Radiology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, LBN.
Cureus
|October 5, 2020
Summary
Latino communities in the USA show low perceived risk for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and poor adherence to preventive behaviors, leading to high infection and mortality rates. This highlights an urgent need for targeted public health interventions.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Sociology
Background:
- The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has disproportionately affected minority populations globally.
- Understanding risk perception and preventive behaviors within specific ethnic groups is crucial for effective public health strategies.
- The Latino population in the United States faces unique socioeconomic and health challenges that may influence their response to the pandemic.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the prevalence of COVID-19 risk perception, attitudes, and implemented preventive behaviors among the Latino population in the USA.
- To identify factors associated with COVID-19 infection and outcomes within this demographic.
- To inform targeted interventions for improving health outcomes in Latino communities.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study was conducted with 410 asymptomatic Latino participants in Maryland between July and August 2020.
- Data were collected via questionnaires on demographics, socioeconomic status, COVID-19 risk perception, and precautionary behaviors.
- Participants also underwent physical examinations and COVID-19 testing via nasal swabs.
Main Results:
- A significant majority (90%) of participants lived below the poverty line, with limited college education (~6%).
- Nearly all participants (97.3%) perceived a low personal risk of contracting COVID-19, yet perceived moderate to high risk at community levels.
- Low adherence to preventive measures was observed, with 71.2% never wearing masks and 85.4% not practicing social distancing. Of those infected, 18.5% tested positive, with high rates of symptomatic illness, hospitalization, and mortality.
Conclusions:
- The study reveals a critical gap in perceived threat and engagement with preventive behaviors regarding COVID-19 among Latinos in the USA.
- Inadequate risk perception and low adoption of protective measures place Latino communities at substantial risk for COVID-19 acquisition, transmission, and adverse outcomes.
- Urgent, culturally tailored public health initiatives are necessary to address these disparities and mitigate the impact of COVID-19 in this population.
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