Studies Show Immigrant Health Declining Over Time

Several studies have found that the quality of health among immigrants to the U.S. declines progressively the longer they live in the country, in large part because they tend to adopt more Western behaviors, such as smoking, drinking, high-calorie diets and sedentary lifestyles. The studies also show that U.S.-born children of immigrants have lower quality of health and shorter lifespans compared with their parents, even though they generally have higher incomes, better access to higher-quality medical care, nutritious food and opportunities to lead healthier lifestyles.

• "The Health Toll of Immigration" (Tavernise, New York Times, 5/18).