Cardiovascular health profile of Filipinos living in New Zealand : a cross-sectional survey

The exponential growth of Filipino immigrants living in Aotearoa New Zealand has been well documented. However, there is limited information about their health status, particularly in relation to cardiovascular health. This study examined the status and factors contributing to the cardiovascular health of Filipino immigrants residing in Aotearoa New Zealand. A cross-sectional survey was undertaken to collect data. Chi-square and independent t–tests were used to determine differences between groups. Logistic regression was fitted to determine factors associated with the presence of a health condition. Odds ratios with 95% confidence interval are presented. The increased odds for having at least one cardiovascular risk factor among participants include those who have lived in Aotearoa New Zealand for more than three years, male sex, overweight or obese individuals, having poor to fair perception of health, and those who were current smokers. High cardiovascular risk decreased by 23% for a one hour increase in daily sleep. Our findings are similar to those reported for Filipino immigrant communities in other countries. Cardiovascular risk reduction strategies should be targeted to meet the specific ethno-cultural needs of Filipinos, acknowledging personal and inherent factors, in addition to the socio-economic environment. Such interventions should specifically address common risk factors such as physical inactivity, low fruit and vegetable intake, and sleep quantity, together with broader social and employment policies to promote the health and wellbeing of Filipino communities.