Journal of Immigrant and Refugee Studies
Volume 9, Issue 1, 2011, Pages 98-103

Hypertension beliefs and practices among South Asian immigrants: A focus group study (Article)

Changrani J.* , Pandya S. , Mukherjee-Ratnam B.R. , Acharya S. , Ahmed A. , Leng J. , Gany F.
  • a Department of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, 550 First Ave., BCD-D-402, New York, NY 10016, United States
  • b Department of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, 550 First Ave., BCD-D-402, New York, NY 10016, United States
  • c South Asian Council for Social Services, New York, NY, United States
  • d South Asian Council for Social Services, New York, NY, United States
  • e South Asian Council for Social Services, New York, NY, United States
  • f Department of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, 550 First Ave., BCD-D-402, New York, NY 10016, United States
  • g Department of Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, 550 First Ave., BCD-D-402, New York, NY 10016, United States

Abstract

South Asian immigrants are a large, rapidly growing community in the United States. The rate of cardiovascular disease in immigrants from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh is disproportionately high.We conducted focus groups with diverse South Asian community members in New York City to elucidate hypertension knowledge, and screening and treatment practices. Focus groups were conducted in partnership with community-based organizations. 47 participants across Bangladeshi, Pakistani and Indian immigrants participated in three focus groups. Participants hesitated accessing services because of immigration fears, financial concerns, scheduling constraints, and dissatisfaction with their interactions with doctors. Discussions detailed knowledge about, and barriers to following, advice on diet and exercise. The findings compel further development of culturally- and linguistically-tailored research and interventions to address the specific needs of this large at-risk community. Potential culturally appropriate approaches are discussed to bridge barriers faced by the community. © Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.

Author Keywords

South Asian Hypertension immigrants Health care beliefs

Index Keywords

Pakistan immigration policy hypertension Bangladesh Asian immigrant refugee India United States cardiovascular disease
Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-79952019277&doi=10.1080%2f15562948.2011.547828&partnerID=40&md5=e06eeff6a8b04365582e911b86db8c72
DOI: 10.1080/15562948.2011.547828
ISSN: 15562948
Cited by: 3
Original Language: English