Caring For Chinese, Filipino, & Vietnamese Populations
Describe health and illness practices that may augment problems associated with the treatment of hypertension for Chinese-American clients.
Describe the locus-of-control variable that some Filipino Americans have that may influence health-seeking behavior.
Describe the importance of folk medicine and folk healers to Vietnamese Americans.
Cultural Considerations in Hypertension Management:
Chinese-American Clients:
- Dietary Beliefs: Traditional Chinese medicine may emphasize balancing "yin" and "yang" through food. Restrictions on certain foods (salty, fatty) could conflict with medication.
- Acupuncture/Herbs: Some may use acupuncture or herbal remedies to manage blood pressure, potentially interfering with prescribed medications.
- "面子" (Miànzi) - Face: Openly discussing hypertension might be seen as a loss of face, delaying treatment.
- Family as Decision-Makers: Family members might play a strong role in healthcare decisions, potentially impacting treatment adherence.
- External Locus of Control: Some Filipino Americans may believe health is influenced by fate or external forces (like God). This could lead to a delay in seeking medical help for hypertension.
- "Bahala na" Attitude: This fatalistic outlook ("whatever will be, will be") might discourage proactive management of hypertension.
- Importance of "Hiya" (Shame): Fear of being a burden on family or shame associated with chronic illness could deter seeking treatment.
- "Thầy Thuốc Nam" (Herbal Medicine Practitioners): Traditional Vietnamese medicine uses herbal remedies. These might not interact well with blood pressure medications.
- "Cảm" (Wind-Cold Imbalance): Some may view hypertension as a "Cảm" imbalance, leading to reliance on folk remedies instead of medical care.
- Spiritual Beliefs: Beliefs in spirits or curses affecting health could lead to seeking help from spiritual healers before seeking medical attention for hypertension.
- Culturally sensitive healthcare providers can explain medication interactions, discuss alternative approaches that complement treatment, and involve family members in decision-making.
- Understanding the locus of control can help tailor education and empower Filipino Americans to take charge of their health.
- Building trust with Vietnamese Americans and acknowledging the value of folk medicine can encourage a collaborative approach to managing hypertension.