Minority populations, and especially Mexican Americans, are at higher risk than the general population for the development and sequelae of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, hyperlipidemia, and depression. The reasons are complex, and spans from genetic variables to the social determinants of health. Specific genes identified in Mexican Americans, drive researchers and clinicians to provide improved healthcare. We know that social determinants of health, socioeconomic factors, education level, and health literacy influence chronic disease diagnosis, management, and research. Population-based evidence supports the increased prevalence and possible solutions to reduce vulnerability and increase resilience in Mexican Americans.

Mexican American sub-populations, such as those that live in rural, inner-city, and border areas, are at even higher risk of suffering from chronic disease and illness. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention defines a Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) that refers to the resilience of communities when confronted with different stresses on human health. Mexican American communities often rank high in SVI compared to other communities, due to genetic and biological factors, as well as social factors related to the increased risk of chronic disease.
Studies are needed to define genetic and epigenetic contributors to increased risk for chronic disease. We need novel approaches to the mitigation of social determinants of health in the Mexican American populations, as well as the diagnosis and treatment of chronic disease in this vulnerable population. Multi-disciplinary and integrated approaches are necessary to investigate the complex interaction of nature vs. nurture. Collaboration between clinicians, researchers, and population health is necessary to define, diagnose, and treat our most vulnerable populations.

This Research Topic explores the biology and management of chronic disease in Mexican Americans.
We will include Original Research and Review articles that focus on the genetics, epidemiology, novel diagnosis, treatment options, interventions, and outcomes of chronic disease in Mexican Americans. Topics will include both basic science and clinical research with a strong focus on, but not limited to, the following:

• Emerging strategies for identifying and defining contributors to chronic disease
• Epidemiology of chronic disease in Mexican Americans
• Impact of population-based interventions for diagnosis and treatment
• The role of the environment on genes, health, and behavior
• Contributors to health and disease in Mexican Americans

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