This report provides a close look at the health and health behaviors of the Japanese American population in California. Using data from the California Health Interview Survey (2003, 2005, 2007, 2009, and 2011-2012), this report examines a number of health indicators for Japanese Americans compared to other Asian ethnic groups in the state (Chinese, Filipino, Korean, Vietnamese, South Asian, and other Asian), as well as other racial/ethnic groups (Latinos, African Americans, Whites, American Indians/Alaska Natives, and other single and multi-ethnic Californians). 

The authors look at 15 indicators related to health status and health behavior and for three different populations: Those who identify as being "only" Japanese — typically with parents who both were Japanese; those who identify as being mixed-race; and those who identified as being Japanese in some way. 

Findings: The authors find that elderly Japanese-Americans had lower risks for nine of 15 health indicators than other Asian and other racial and ethnic groups in California. Older Japanese-Americans, however, did have higher rates of arthritis and hypertension than seniors in other racial and ethnic groups. Japanese-only residents, in large part the older generation, tend to have health behaviors and health outcomes that are better than the racially mixed younger generations. This report was supported by a grant from Keiro Senior HealthCare.