Physical activity

Asians are the fastest growing population in New Zealand currently making up 9.2 percent of the total population. There is increasing childhood obesity and type 2 diabetes rates among all Asians. There is a need to have a strategic direction to improve the high burden of cardiovascular disease in South Asians and the emerging issue for Chinese and other Asian population. Health promotion efforts are needed to preserve traditional dietary practices and encouragement of participation in culturally acceptable forms of physical activity, particularly in Asian women.