Health Challenges in Aging Asians

We are Sri Lankans, that is, Asians. We often think that we are a very healthy and strong group of people. But did you know that we have several health problems and risks that are different from people in Western countries, specific to our genes and our lifestyle? We don't talk about these things much, and maybe we don't even know about them. So today we thought we would talk a little about these special health challenges that we have to face as we age, for our own sake.

Why do we need to talk about "our people" separately?

When someone says "Asians", they lump Chinese, Japanese, Indians, Sri Lankans all together. But that's actually wrong. Because the countries are different, the languages ​​are different, the food, culture, lifestyle, everything is different. But despite all these differences, genetically and depending on the way we live, there are several health risks that affect us as South Asians in general.

Just think, some diseases can develop in us differently than people in Western countries. Or, we can develop them at a younger age than they do. Being aware of these things will help us control them before they become a big problem. Let's look at what these are one by one.

What are the most common health problems among our people?

In addition to the diseases we usually think of, surveys have even found several health problems that are common among Asians, but that don't receive much attention.

A little more about diabetes...

This is a very important point. Usually, a doctor calculates the body mass index ( BMI ) based on a person's weight and height. In Western countries, we start to see the risk of diabetes at a much lower BMI than the BMI that would indicate that someone is at risk. Just think, we can develop diabetes even if we weigh 10-13 kilograms less than them. So, thinking, "I'm thin, I won't get diabetes " is not a good idea.

Why is this disease not properly recognized? What are the barriers to treatment?

There are several reasons for this.

1. Lack of awareness: Most of the time, our people are unaware of these particular risks. They ignore symptoms even when they appear due to the attitude that "we won't get them."

2. Cultural and social influences: Shame and fear of talking about mental health issues, especially. Many people suffer from the fear that if someone seeks treatment for a mental health issue, society will ostracize them, saying, "They're crazy."

3. Misconceptions: The overestimation that "we are a healthy nation" can sometimes lead to delayed diagnoses. Misconceptions like "you're Asian, you can't get cancer" have sometimes existed even in the medical field.

4. Weaknesses in communication with the doctor: This is a common thing for many of us. When we go to see a doctor, we tend to say "yes" to everything he says, but rarely bother to ask our questions and doubts.

What can we do to stay healthy?

Knowing these things, there is no need to be afraid. The most important thing is to be aware and take action.

• Talk openly with your doctor: This is the most important thing. Talk to your doctor about your problems, your feelings, and any illnesses in your family ( including hereditary diseases ). When you are prescribed a medication, never be afraid to ask questions like, "What will happen with this?" or "Are there any side effects ?" You should also be an active participant in making decisions about your health.
• Get regular medical checkups : Even if you don't have any health problems, it's a good idea to get a complete medical checkup at least once a year. Ask your doctor about blood sugar, cholesterol, blood pressure, and age-appropriate cancer screenings.
• Hepatitis B test: If you have never been tested for Hepatitis B, talk to your doctor about it and get tested if necessary. There is even a vaccine for it.
• Think about your mental health: If you are feeling anxious, stressed, or sad, don't keep it bottled up inside. Talk to a trusted friend or family member. Also, don't hesitate to see a doctor, psychiatrist, or counselor. Remember, the mind can get sick just like the body, and there are treatments for it.
• A healthy lifestyle: Basic things like a balanced diet, daily exercise, and adequate sleep can protect you from many diseases.