A Timely Concern: Would Immigration Policies and Enforcement Actions Influence Higher Alcohol Dependence among Latina Seasonal Farmworkers?

Background: We report the potential negative health consequences of immigration policies and enforcement actions, such as the increase of at-risk drinking, in the US Latino seasonal farmworker (LSFW) community. Method: Logistic regression analysis was performed using data from 213 female LSFWs over age 18 years. Results: The prevalence of at-risk drinking varied across participants’ age groups: 18% for ages 21–29, 14% ages 30–39, 12% ages 40–49, and 32% ages 50 and older. Half of the participants reported being worried/tense, because they had difficulties finding legal services for their immigration status, and 65% reported that they have been questioned about their legal status. Of participants, 55% reported feeling worried/tense, because they were treated badly due to their lack of English; 42% because they have felt unaccepted by others due to their Latino culture; and 44% because they have been discriminated against. Legal and discrimination concerns were associated with at-risk drinking. Discussion: Enactment of new immigration policies and enforcement of existing immigration policies should consider negative public health implications. Novel approaches should be explored to more effectively reach and engage LSFW at-risk of problematic alcohol use or in need of substance use treatment.