# Sociodemographic Factors and Determinants of Mental Health in the African American Population A Cross-Sectional Study

## TL;DR

This study finds high mental health disorder rates in Afro-descendant communities in Peru, linked to poverty, poor diet, and trauma.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into mental health disparities in historically marginalized Afro-descendant populations in Latin America.

## Key findings

- Mental disorders affect 60.7% of the population, much higher than national averages.
- Low income and poor diet are strongly linked to mental health issues.
- Severe stress and abuse are the strongest predictors of mental disorders.

## Abstract

Background/Objectives: Mental disorders are a growing public health concern in Latin America, particularly among marginalized populations. This study aimed to identify the prevalence and associated risk factors of mental disorders in Afro-descendant communities of the Río Chota Basin, a historically excluded population facing persistent social and economic inequalities. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in several rural communities using random sampling. A total of 557 participants were assessed for sociodemographic factors and mental health status using the following validated instruments: the Global Mental Health Assessment Tool–Primary Care (GMHAT/PC), the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), and the WHO STEPS questionnaire. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential tests to determine associations between psychosocial, behavioral, and socioeconomic variables and the presence of mental disorders. Results: The overall prevalence of mental disorders was extremely high (60.7%), exceeding national and regional estimates. The most prevalent conditions were major depressive disorder (15.6–17.9%), anxiety disorders (10.2–12.3%), and psychosis with depressive symptoms (8.3–11.5%), with higher rates among women. Low fruit and vegetable intake and income below the minimum wage were significantly associated with greater prevalence. Severe stress and experiences of abuse or maltreatment showed the strongest associations with mental disorders (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Afro-descendant communities in the Río Chota Basin experience a disproportionately high burden of mental illness influenced by intertwined socioeconomic, psychosocial, and behavioral determinants. Culturally sensitive interventions that promote resilience, community support, and reduction in structural inequalities are urgently needed.