Evidence of place-based heterogeneity in self-reported health trends among Asians in the United States

Background: The Asian population represents a growing demographic group in the United States, yet research on self-rated health (SRH) among this population often overlooks within-group heterogeneity and regional variation, which are critical to understanding health disparities. The present study examines differences in SRH across Asian ethnic subgroups and geographic regions in the US. Methods: Using data from the 2018-2023 Annual Social and Economic Supplement of the Current Population Survey, we assess Asian subgroup-level change in SRH by regional residence. Results: Findings indicate heterogeneity in SRH across Asian subgroups. Indian and Chinese individuals report the lowest rates of poor/fair SRH, whereas Filipinos and Koreans report higher rates. Regional differences also emerged. Despite widespread anti-Asian discrimination during the COVID-19 pandemic, SRH among the population subgroups remained relatively stable, with a slight trend toward lower probabilities of poor/fair health during the onset of the pandemic in the Midwest and Northeast, except among Filipinos, who fared worse. Conclusions: These findings underscore the necessity of disaggregating Asian American health data to capture subgroup-specific vulnerabilities and place-based disparities. Regional disparities may further shape SRH outcomes, with evidence suggesting both protective and risk effects. Understanding the intersection of ethnicity, regional inequalities, and health perception is critical for informing targeted public health interventions and addressing health disparities within the Asian population.