Experiences and Perceptions of Physical Activity Among South Asian and Anglo-Australians With Type 2 Diabetes or Cardiovascular Disease

Abstract

Research indicates that there are worryingly low levels of physical activity among South Asians compared with Anglo-Australians with type 2 diabetes and/or cardiovascular disease (CVD). We compared perceptions, barriers, and enablers of physical activity in these groups. We used a qualitative design, conducting in-depth, semistructured iterative interviews in Victoria with 57 South Asian and Anglo-Australian participants with either type 2 diabetes or CVD. While both groups exhibited knowledge of the value of physical activity in health maintenance and disease management, they wished for more specific and culturally tailored advice from clinicians about the type, duration, and intensity of physical activity required. Physical activity identities were tied to ethnic identities, with members of each group aspiring to meet the norms of their culture regarding engagement with physical activity as specific exercise or as incidental exercise. Individual personal exercise was deemed important by Anglo-Australians whereas South Asians preferred family-based physical activity.

Migrant experiences of living with type 2 diabetes in Western Sydney, Australia: a multilingual pilot research project

“…These preliminary findings implicate a broader set of personal and socio-cultural dynamics than are often contemplated in behavioural risk factor analyses of ethnoculturally defined groups. [16][17][18] As such, the research contributes to recent qualitative work that illustrates, in a non-reductive manner, the significance of culture for prevention and management of chronic illnesses. 19,20 At the same time, our findings raise the possibility that this emphasis in recent qualitative work on migrants' culture needs to be complemented by other social and interpersonal factors beyond ethnocultural…”

Exploration of Physical Activity Barriers and Facilitators Among Adults in Kathmandu, Nepal

“…Future interventions might consider involving family members and providing opportunities for being physically active with the family. A previous qualitative study has also shown that South Asians prefer family-based PA, and having a partner interested and participating in PA can act as a motivator (Gupta et al, 2017). This not only would enhance awareness about the importance of PA in the family but also could be valuable in addressing the traditional gender roles and ensuring women are well supported and feel safe.…”

How Can We Keep Immigrant Travelers Healthy? Health Challenges Experienced by Canadian South Asian Travelers Visiting Friends and Relatives

“…We described how advice from family and friends persuaded young mothers to pack food from Canada to protect their young children from food-borne illness, and how mothers intended to avoid eating in restaurants but were encouraged to do so by family members. South Asian VFR travelers typically travel with family members, and are part of a collectivist culture that places a strong emphasis on family connections for identity and as a source of protection against harms (Gupta, Aroni, & Teede, 2017). By examining the social relationships that mediate individual risk behaviors, we can see how decisions were made to negotiate social situations and maintain family harmony.…”