Social networks, health and identity: exploring culturally embedded masculinity with the Pakistani community, West Midlands, UK

Farina Kokab,Antje Lindenmeyer,Paramjit Gill,Lynda Tait,Manbinder Sidhu,Sheila Greenfield

doi:10.1186/s12889-020-09504-9

Farina Kokab, Antje Lindenmeyer + Show 4 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-020-09504-9

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Abstract

BackgroundMigrants from South Asia living in developed countries have an increased risk for developing cardiovascular disease (CVD), with limited research into underlying social causes.MethodsWe used social capital as an interpretive lens to undertake analysis of exploratory qualitative interviews with three generations of at-risk migrant Pakistani men from the West Midlands, UK. Perceptions of social networks, trust, and cultural norms associated with access to healthcare (support and information) were the primary area of exploration.ResultsFindings highlighted the role of social networks within religious or community spaces embedded as part of ethnic enclaves. Local Mosques and gyms remained key social spaces, where culturally specific gender differences played out within the context of a diaspora community, defined ways in which individuals navigated their social spheres and influenced members of their family and community on health and social behaviours.ConclusionsThere are generational and age-based differences in how members use locations to access and develop social support for particular lifestyle choices. The pursuit of a healthier lifestyle varies across the diverse migrant community, determined by social hierarchies and socio-cultural factors. Living close to similar others can limit exposure to novel lifestyle choices and efforts need to be made to promote wider integration between communities and variety of locations catering to health and lifestyle.

Highlights

Migrants from South Asia living in developed countries have an increased risk for developing cardiovascular disease (CVD), with limited research into underlying social causes
Our study shows how second-generation Pakistanis in pursuit of professional careers or higher education were more likely to be exposed to diverse groups of people, and have greater exposure to alternative lifestyle choices and opportunities to seek out healthcare information and support
Our findings contribute to the current understanding of the role of social motivators in the Pakistani community e.g. when going to the gym and moving beyond the pursuit of better physical health towards appearance in the community [79]

Summary

Introduction

Migrants from South Asia living in developed countries have an increased risk for developing cardiovascular disease (CVD), with limited research into underlying social causes. The growing prevalence of obesity alongside co-morbidities such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease (CVD) require global preventative action [1]. In the UK, the 10-year NHS plan highlighted the need for greater support in Black and Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities to address specific health needs through lifestyle services which subsequently led to increased funding to further develop the Diabetes Prevention Programme [3]. Neighbourhood studies in the UK have shown minority-ethnic groups are over-represented in deprived areas characterised by disadvantaged physical environments, including inadequate leisure facilities, housing, and over stretched primary and secondary healthcare. The worst neighbourhood environment for the White majority is comparatively better than that of minority-ethnic groups in the UK [6, 7]

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Discussion

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