What Are the Risk Factors and Preventative Strategies for Cardiovascular Disease Among People From South Asia (SA) Living in the Western World? An Integrative Review.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death worldwide; however, some population groups are more at risk. In New Zealand, this includes those who identify as Māori, Pacifica and South Asian. Little is understood about why the South Asian population is at risk; this lack of understanding, combined with a rapidly growing population, makes South Asians a critical group to understand and to plan interventions for that will mediate risk. METHOD: An integrative review enabled a blending of qualitative and quantitative literature to answer the research question. Data were collected between September 2021 and December 2021 using CINAHL, EBSCO and MEDLINE databases. After screening using PRISMA, ten articles met the inclusion criteria and were scanned for quality. Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis was used to identify codes and themes. RESULTS: Four themes were identified: Theme one found that the two major risk factors that place South Asians at risk for CVD are elevated BMI and diabetes. This theme also explores reasons for this phenomenon. The second theme highlights the need for a detailed algorithm explicitly highlighting the risks for SA. Theme three identified that the most preventative strategies were physical activity and cardiovascular protective medication. Increasing health literacy was the fourth theme needed to decrease cardiovascular risk. CONCLUSION: Targeted education is needed to increase health literacy for the South Asian population, particularly around the inter-relationships between obesity and diabetes and their significant contribution to cardiovascular disease. Application of risk assessment tools and targeted education are needed to help health professionals identify cardiovascular risk profiles early for South Asians so they can commence preventative strategies, including increasing physical exercise and early initiation of medications.