South-Asian Community Drives Development of Health Resources

The East Health Trust Primary Health Organisation has launched an initiative to develop culturally-tailored health resources for South-Asian communities in New Zealand. This effort addresses significant health disparities, as South-Asian men in the country have the highest rates of type 2 diabetes and face elevated risks of heart disease.

To better understand the specific needs of these communities, East Health Trust partnered with researchers from the University of Otago. Together, they conducted a series of focus groups and co-design sessions from September to November 2023. These gatherings allowed community members to share their lived experiences, providing valuable insights into how health promotion programmes can be more effective.

During the sessions, participants discussed what “good health support” means to them. They emphasized the importance of preferred languages, communication styles, group settings, and cultural comfort in venues and facilitators. Parvin Kapila, Health Promotion Co-ordinator at East Health Trust, noted, “Participants brought such thoughtful insights. We learned about their preferences in nutrition, the significance of healthy living information, and how cultural heritage influences their dietary choices.”

This co-design approach not only fosters community involvement but also aligns health services with the specific needs of South-Asian populations. The insights gathered will guide the development of health resources set for release in 2026. Kapila highlighted that understanding cultural awareness and respecting family dynamics are crucial for crafting effective health strategies.

The collaborative effort aims to enhance health outcomes by ensuring that future health programmes resonate with the community’s unique cultural context. By focusing on the preferences and needs of South-Asians, East Health Trust is setting a precedent for inclusive health services in New Zealand.

For more updates on local health initiatives, readers can look out for the next issue of the Eastern Times and visit www.times.co.nz.