Chronic diseases and their behavioural risk factors among South Asian immigrants in Australia

Objectives The prevalence of chronic diseases among immigrants varies across different ethnic groups attributed to the disparities in their risk factors. This study aimed to explore the prevalence and correlates of chronic diseases among the rapidly growing South Asian population in Australia.Methods An online survey was administered (2020-2021) among South Asian immigrants in Australia. Diagnosed chronic diseases, smoking habits, physical activity, alcohol consumption, body mass index, and fruit and vegetable intake were assessed. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to examine factors associated with chronic disease.Results Overall, 50% of the study participants had one chronic disease and 39% had more than one chronic disease (n = 282). Back pain (30%), depression (22%), diabetes (21%), hypertension (19%), and heart disease (12%) were the most reported diseases. Approximately 78% of participants were insufficiently active and 38% regularly consumed alcohol. Approximately three-quarters consumed fruits and vegetables less than once per day. Multivariable analyses showed that those who were aged more than 50 years (OR = 4.38, 95% CI 1.66-11.56), consumed alcohol more than once/month (OR = 3.25, 95% CI 1.17-8.96), and ate less than one serving of vegetables/day (OR = 2.94, 95% CI 1.19-7.26) had higher odds of having two or more chronic diseases.Conclusions Fifty percent of study participants presented with preventable diseases, signifying a substantial health burden. Public health interventions should primarily focus on reducing alcohol intake and increasing fruit and vegetable consumption, particularly among individuals of advanced age, to reduce the overall burden on the healthcare system. What is known about the topic? The incidence of chronic diseases among immigrants varies across different ethnic groups due to disparities in their behavioural risk factors. What does this paper add? The study explores the health of South Asian immigrants in Australia and finds that half of them have preventable chronic diseases. Having more than one chronic disease is more common in those over 50, those who do not eat enough vegetables, and those who regularly drink alcohol. What are the implications for practitioners? The study underscores the significance of healthcare providers directing their efforts towards assisting immigrants, particularly the elderly, in reducing alcohol consumption and adopting healthier dietary habits to prevent chronic diseases.