Comparing Utahan Mormon and Non-Mormon Hispanics' Health Status: Testing the Cultural Buffering Hypothesis

Philip B. Mason, Utah State University
Youngtae Cho, Utah State University
Michael B. Toney, Utah State University

This study examines Hispanic Health in a new destination state; while taking an in depth look at the influence of health between Utah Mormon and Utah non-Mormon Hispanics. This may possibly test the strength of the cultural buffering hypothesis in the Epidemiology Paradox. To accomplish these aims, the 2001 Utah Health Status Survey will be utilized as the data sources. By comparing these two groups in terms of global health status as well as a variety of physical health characteristics we expect to find relationships to significantly better overall health among those that join the dominant Mormon culture than those that do not.