A Scoping Review of the Landscape of Health Research With People of Maya Origin Residing in the United States

Abstract

People of Maya origin from Central America and Mexico represent a large and growing Indigenous population in the United States that is culturally and linguistically distinct from Hispanic/Latino/Latinx communities more generally. People of Maya origin are often overlooked by both society and the health research community. The purpose of this scoping review was to develop a better understanding of the health research landscape with people of Maya origin residing in the United States. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses–Scoping Review (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines, we explored: (1) What health topics have been studied? (2) What research methodologies have been used? (3) Where have studies been conducted? and (4) What are the key findings from these studies? Articles had to address a physical, mental, and/or social health issue; be conducted in the United States; and have participants who specifically identified as “Maya.” A total of 35 articles were included. Results indicated that most studies focused on social health and well-being, rather than specific physical or mental health conditions. Studies were primarily qualitative and conducted in states like California and Florida. Implications for health promotion practice and research are presented. Engagement and partnerships with people of Maya origin and Maya organizations are critical to ensuring that the health research landscape generates meaningful questions and practitioners can co-create relevant solutions. Opportunities for future research include chronic health conditions, health behaviors, and occupational injuries and illnesses, as well as dissemination, implementation, and adaptation efforts. Studies should look to incorporate breadth and depth using a variety of research methods.