28 June 2018 - - New research showing that Asian Indian immigrants in the US are at increased risk for chronic diseases including type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease (CVD) was presented at the US-based non profit voluntary health organization American Diabetes Association's (ADA's) 78th Scientific Sessions, the organization said.
The study, titled "Mediating Role of Acculturation and Lifestyle Behaviors on Cardiometabolic Risks among Asian Indians in the United States," indicated that adopting American lifestyle behaviors may specifically affect HbA1c levels and high-density lipoproteins cholesterol levels in this group.
Researchers conducted a secondary data analysis of a previous study that collected data from a large, national sample of randomly selected Asian Indian adults from seven US cities to measure the prevalence of diabetes, metabolic syndrome and CVD.
This analysis examined the influencing role that lifestyle, specifically physical activity and dietary behavior, had on acculturation and the development of diabetes and CVD among the study participants.
The study concluded that dietary and physical activity interventions that are culturally specific might help lower risks of developing diabetes and cardiovascular disease in Asian Indian immigrants.
Founded in 1940, the mission of the ADA is to prevent and cure diabetes, and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. The organization drives discovery, funds research, safeguards policies, and furthers diabetes education across the nation.
In addition, the ADA supports people living with diabetes, those at risk of developing diabetes, and the health care professionals who serve them through information and programs that can improve health outcomes and quality of life.