Ethnic Disparity and Increased Prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes Among South Asians: Aetiology and Future Implications for Diabetes Prevention and Management

Background: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is turning out to be a global health crisis. Currently available literature clearly indicates an increased risk of type 2 diabetes amongst South Asian population. Objective: The objective of this narrative review is to explore the non-modifiable and modifiable risk factors of T2DM in South Asian population, including their beliefs, attitudes, socio economic and cultural barriers and also to explore the possible implications in designing culture specific diabetes prevention and management programs. Methods: This narrative review is based upon the data from individual studies and review article known to the authors. Additional relevant studies were identified through PubMed search on English-language papers published in 2000-2017 using the relevant keywords. Where appropriate, the reference lists of key papers were reviewed to identify additional studies of interest. Results: Many genetic and environmental risk factors such as diet, physical inactivity, and sleep contribute to the increased prevalence of diabetes in the ethnic group. Providing mere knowledge about diabetes and these risk factors might not be sufficient in this particular ethnic group. It is essential to address their beliefs, attitudes and the cultural barriers faced. Conclusion: To overcome the health disparity in the South Asian ethnic group, various risk factors associated with diabetes, and the challenges faced are to be considered while designing future diabetes prevention and management strategies.