NON-COMMUNICABLE DISEASES
Every individual is at risk of developing chronic conditions leading to heart
disease and cancer. However, people from South Asian backgrounds are
more likely to develop diabetes early and have bad cholesterol. South Asians
develop heart disease on average 10 years earlier than other groups and
have a much greater chance of having a heart attack before the age of 50.
COMMON HEALTH QUESTIONS
Why are we at increased risk of developing diabetes, high cholesterol and heart disease?
Our diet and lack of physical activity, greater insulin resistance, blood fat levels, obesity and high blood pressure.
South Asians exercise less than other groups and are less aware of the relationship between not exercising and heart disease.
Discuss the increased risk for South Asians with your doctor.
© 2020 Aga Khan Health Board USA
Click here for checklists based on your age and gender to make sure you are getting all the tests you need, especially if
you are South Asian.
WHAT TESTS SHOULD I GET WHEN I GO FOR MY CHECK-UP AT THE DOCTOR?
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If your doctor has prescribed daily medication for blood pressure, then YES, you need to take it EVERYDAY and
not just once-in-a-while.
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One of the common reasons why it’s difficult to control blood pressure is because patients don’t take the medicine
daily, or as prescribed.
SHOULD I BE TAKING MEDICINE FOR HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE DAILY?
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In short, YES, if your doctor has prescribed it, you should take it regularly
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Since South Asians have an increased risk for heart disease, your doctor will need to consider this when he/she
looks at your cholesterol levels. Ask your doctor if he/she knows you have an increased risk, being South Asian.
SHOULD I BE TAKING MEDICINE TO REDUCE CHOLESTEROL?
South Asians are at high risk for heart disease and if you have a family member who has died with heart disease,
your risk may be even higher.
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Definitely discuss this with your doctor and make sure to be screened for diabetes, high cholesterol and high
blood pressure, which are some of the most common risk factors
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Also be sure to have a good diet and exercise regularly.
ONE OF MY PARENTS OR CLOSE RELATIVE DIED OF HEART DISEASE AT A YOUNG
AGE, WHAT SHOULD I DO TO PREVENT IT?
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You should discuss testing at the age of 18 years old
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You should especially be tested if your BMI is higher than 22 or 23.
WHEN SHOULD I GET TESTED FOR DIABETES?
150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity exercise, such as running or walking at a fast pace, will help prevent
diabetes, heart disease and cancer.
HOW MUCH EXERCISE DO I NEED?
We have some easy and simple advice for you! Follow this link for 10 tips that will take you to a healthier lifestyle.
HOW CAN I IMPROVE MY DIET OR MY FAMILY’S EATING HABITS?
Depression is common and can affect your quality of life. Take this screening test to see if you should bring this issue
up with your doctor.
HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE DEPRESSION?
If you have any family history of cancer, make sure to discuss this in detail with your doctor and together, you can
decide on the best timing for screening. Especially if you have a history of breast or colon cancer, you may need to
be screened earlier than others.
ONE OF MY PARENTS DIED OF CANCER. WHAT CAN I DO TO PREVENT IT?
There are clear guidelines for cancer checks. Follow the link below to see the list of cancers should get screened for at
every age or phase of life.
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Women over age 40 should discuss breast cancer screening with your doctor.
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Men and women over age 45 should discuss colon cancer screening with your doctor.
WHICH CANCERS SHOULD I BE TESTED FOR?