The Influence of Family on Immigrant South Asian Women’s Health

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of family members on immigrant South Asian women’s health and health-seeking behavior. This qualitative study was part of a larger study that examined the health-seeking practices of immigrant South Asian women living in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia, Canada. Using ethnographic methods, data were collected through face-to-face interviews with women who had lived in Canada for 10 months to 31 years. Analysis of translated and transcribed data revealed that women made decisions about their health in consultation with family members. Overall, family members were perceived to be supportive and provided direct and indirect assistance to women in ways that influenced their health. Expected roles and responsibilities often had detrimental influences on women’s health. Health care for immigrant South Asian women needs to take into account women’s relationships with family members and the influence of family on women’s health.