South-Asian Communities Drive Development of Health Resources

The East Health Trust Primary Health Organisation is taking significant steps to improve health outcomes for South-Asian communities in New Zealand, where men experience the highest rates of type 2 diabetes and face elevated risks of heart disease. In collaboration with researchers from the University of Otago, this initiative aims to create culturally-tailored health resources designed to meet the specific needs of individuals with roots in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives.

In a proactive effort to address these health disparities, the East Health Trust conducted a series of focus groups and co-design sessions from September to November 2023. These gatherings provided a platform for community members to share their lived experiences and contribute to the development of future health promotion programmes. Participants were encouraged to express their perspectives on what constitutes effective health support, focusing on aspects like preferred languages, communication styles, and cultural comfort in various settings.

Parvin Kapila, the Health Promotion Co-ordinator, noted the importance of these insights: “Participants brought such thoughtful insights. We heard what they wanted in terms of good nutrition, healthy living information, and how that differs for this community, the different foods and the importance of it to their heritage.”

The sessions highlighted a strong desire for resources that resonate culturally and address unique dietary and lifestyle factors relevant to the South-Asian community. Kapila emphasized that understanding cultural nuances and family dynamics, alongside recognizing the busy lives of community members, will significantly influence the implementation of future health initiatives.

This co-design approach reinforces the commitment of health services to be collaborative and community-focused. The resources developed through this initiative are expected to be available for use by 2026, marking a significant milestone in addressing the health needs of South-Asians in New Zealand.

The East Health Trust aims to ensure that the health information provided is not only accessible but also deeply respectful of the cultural values held by these communities. As the project progresses, the organization will continue to gather feedback and adapt its strategies to ensure the most effective delivery of health resources.

For ongoing updates regarding local health initiatives, readers can look forward to the next issue of the Eastern Times and visit www.times.co.nz.