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What cultural influences affect the health of Asian Americans?
Discuss the health behaviors of Asian Americans and how those behaviors affect their health.
Discuss some differences among the different populations that are referred to as Asian Americans
The health of Asian Americans is profoundly shaped by a wide range of cultural beliefs, values, and practices originating from diverse Asian countries.1 These influences often dictate perceptions of illness, care-seeking behaviors, and adherence to Western medical models.2
Holistic View of Health: Many Asian cultures, particularly those influenced by Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) or Ayurveda, hold a holistic view of health where wellness is a state of balance and harmony (3$\text{Yin}$ and 4$\text{Yang}$ or Qi).5 Illness is often seen as an imbalance in the body, mind, or environment.6
Effect on Care: This view leads many to prioritize preventative measures like diet, exercise (e.g., Tai Chi), and herbal remedies, often viewing Western medicine as a last resort for acute illness rather than chronic management.
Family Obligation and Filial Piety: The cultural value of filial piety emphasizes respect for and deference to elders, often making family members (not the patient) the primary decision-makers in healthcare.7
Effect on Care: Patients may minimize symptoms to avoid burdening the family. Discussions about end-of-life care, genetic diseases, or mental health are often filtered through or controlled by the eldest family member, impacting patient autonomy and disclosure of complete health information.
Stigma and Shame (Loss of Face): There is a strong cultural emphasis on maintaining "face" (social dignity and reputation). Illness, particularly mental health disorders or chronic conditions, can be seen as a source of shame or a moral failing brought upon the family.
Effect on Care: This stigma leads to significant underreporting and underutilization of mental health services. Emotional distress is often expressed through somatic symptoms (physical complaints like headaches or fatigue) rather than psychological ones.
Fatalism Regarding Health: In some cultures, there is a degree of fatalism—the belief that one's health destiny is predetermined.
Effect on Care: This can manifest as low motivation for aggressive management of chronic diseases like diabetes or hypertension, as the patient may believe the outcome is already set.