Perspectives on physical activity participation in middle-aged U.S. South Asian women at risk for type 2 diabetes mellitus: A qualitative study.

OBJECTIVE

Increasing evidence supports the benefits of physical activity (PA) in lowering the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) among middle-aged women. Despite the increased risk for T2DM at a younger age, South Asian (SA) women in the United States (U.S.) have lower PA than men and have been studied to a lesser extent. This study explored the culturally bound attitudes, behaviors, beliefs, and barriers related to PA among middle-aged SA women at risk for T2DM.

DESIGN

A descriptive qualitative study involving focus group discussions (FGDs) with SA women (N=25) at risk for T2DM was conducted. Participants were recruited from SA religious/faith communities and professional organizations in Houston, Texas, using purposive and snowball sampling. FGDs were audio-recorded and transcribed. Data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke's reflexive thematic analysis in MAXQDA.

RESULTS

Most participants were married, college-educated, employed, and first-generation immigrants. Two overarching themes-barriers to PA and facilitators/motivators of PA-emerged, comprising six subthemes. Barriers included balancing roles and responsibilities and cultural attitudes and norms, while facilitators/motivators included support systems, personal drives, role models, and exercise as enjoyable.

CONCLUSION

Cultural attitudes and gender norms strongly influence PA behavior among SA women in the U.S. Collectivism expressed through bonding, accountability, enjoyment, and mutual encouragement is a key strength among SA women that shapes their PA experiences. Culturally appropriate intervention strategies may include offering peer-based, socially supported PA programs and targeted education to increase SA women's awareness of PA benefits across life stages.