People from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds health risks

Australia is one of the most culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) nations in the world. While the diversity brings many benefits and a welcome depth and richness to our society, people from a CALD background are placed at greater risks of developing health issues.

In particular people from CALD backgrounds have a higher rate of carrying risk factors for type 2 diabetes which include:
• Obesity
• Heart disease
• High blood pressure

There are many factors that contribute to the higher level of risks experienced by some CALD groups including:
• Genetic factors
• Immigration factors
• Socio-economic factors
• Socio-cultural factors

Evidence to date suggests that the CALD groups most at risk of developing type 2 diabetes and other chronic diseases are:
• Asian – people from the Indian subcontinent including Bangladesh, India, Pakistan Nepal and Sri Lanka
• Chinese – including people from China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Vietnam and Philippines
• Pacific Islanders – including people from Tonga, Samoa, Fiji, Nauru and Maoris
• Middle Eastern – including people from Lebanon, Iraq and Afghanistan
• African – including people from Kenya, Zimbabwe, Somalia, Ethiopia and Sudan
• European – including people from Germany, Greece, Italy and Malta

Source – Colaguri R, Thomas M and Buckley A. Preventing Type 2 Diabetes in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Communities in NSW. Sydney: NSW Department of Health, 2007.

Culturally Appropriate Lifestyle Modification Programs
Culture plays a particularly important part in achieving better health and because of this some general practice networks are developing and running culturally appropriate Lifestyle Modification Programs.

To find out if your local general practice network offers a CALD Lifestyle Modification Program or other CALD health programs please click here.