KEY POINTS
- Heart disease and stroke is the number one killer in Australia and a major threat in the community. Filipinos are genetically prone to high blood pressure and cholesterol. Combine that with diets rich in fried, salty food and a culture of hard work that leaves little time for rest or check-ups, and the risk skyrockets.
- Type 2 diabetes is the second common disease in the Filipino community. Most Filipinos love white rice, sweet desserts, and processed snack but these can lead to insulin resistance. Add in the effects of shift work, which messes with sleep and metabolism, and the result is a community facing alarmingly high rates of diabetes.
- The third one is chronic kidney disease which is a silent killer. It often starts with unmanaged high blood pressure or diabetes. Many Filipinos also take over-the-counter painkillers for body aches without realising it can damage the kidneys over time.
Healthy Pinoy is SBS Filipino's weekly segment on health. The content provided is for informational purposes only and does not intend to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your GP or doctor for support.
LISTEN TO THE PODCAST
'We often don’t feel sick until it’s serious': The top 3 health risks Filipinos in Australia face
SBS Filipino
12:07
Many of these diseases are preventable with small lifestyle changes. Regular check-ups are crucial, especially because Filipinos often don’t feel sick until it’s too serious. Prioritise your health even if you feel fine, your future self will thank you.Specialist GP Dr. Angelica Logarta-Scott
RELATED CONTENT
Healthy Pinoy
📢 Where to Catch SBS Filipino
🔊 On Air – Tune in to SBS Filipino on and and TV Channel 302 from 10 AM to 11 AM AEST daily.
📲 Catch up episodes and stories – Visit or stream on , , , and
