Knowledge and Perceptions of Cardiovascular Health in Asian Americans

To address the burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in Asian American populations, and to provide preliminary data for developing cardiovascular health (CVH) interventions in these underserved populations, it is important first to understand this population's perceptions of CVD.

In this pilot study, we conducted 3 focus groups using an ethnographic approach with 25 older adult Chinese and Vietnamese immigrants in Seattle, Washington. Participants were recruited from a local health clinic and community service agencies. Focus groups were conducted in their native languages. Questions focused on CVH beliefs, knowledge about hypertension and hyperlipidemia, facilitators and barriers to control, and traditional health beliefs about management of CVD.

Seventeen Chinese and 8 Vietnamese Americans participated. The mean age of participants was 64. Overall, participants demonstrated a general understanding of hypertension and hyperlipidemia but were less confident about respective risk factors and complications. They were much more aware of hypertension and stroke than of hyperlipidemia. Participants acknowledged that these diseases are common to their ethnic groups, especially the elderly. Certain traditional health beliefs regarding prevention are common across the ethnic groups. Barriers to drug compliance for hypertension and hyperlipidemia include cost, needing to take drugs regularly, and lack of improvement. Participants expressed difficulty understanding their doctors and noted that related health information is lacking.

Our preliminary data suggest that more education is needed to increase Asian Americans' understanding of prevention and management of CVD. There is a demand for language-specific and culturally appropriate educational materials.