South Asians, composing 7.1% of the population of Canada, face disproportionately high rates of
diabetes and cardiovascular disease. They are 2.3 times more likely to develop diabetes than White
Canadians, contributing to the overall 9.5% prevalence of diabetes in Canada (2021-2022). The elevated
risk in South Asians is due to genetic factors, increased visceral fat, and insulin resistance, and is
compounded by social factors such as limited healthcare access, financial constraints, and cultural
differences. Cardiovascular disease is another major issue, with South Asians accounting for over 50% of
cardiovascular deaths globally, while presenting with cardiovascular diseases at younger ages.
These challenges underscore the need for culturally competent healthcare approaches, including
routine screenings, personalized care plans, and targeted educational interventions. Integrating South
Asian-specific health objectives into medical curricula to educate future physicians, and fostering
collaborations between medical student organizations and South Asian health organizations, are crucial
steps toward improving culturally competent care for these populations. These efforts will help bridge the
gap in healthcare access and improve the management of chronic diseases within the South Asian
community, ultimately leading to better health outcomes across Canada.