The experiences and needs of Gujarati Hindu patients and partners in the first month after a myocardial infarction.
BACKGROUND
South Asian people living in the United Kingdom are at increased risk of coronary heart disease, have higher mortality rates and are less likely to be treated when compared to the white population. There is, however, little information about the experiences and needs of this group after discharge from hospital.


OBJECTIVE
To explore the experiences and needs of Gujarati Hindu patients and their partners in the first month after a myocardial infarction.


METHODS
Using a qualitative research approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted by a Gujarati-speaking researcher with 35 patients and their partners at home during early convalescence.


RESULTS
A number of categories emerged from the data which pertained to a lack of information and advice, poor performance of activity, little lifestyle adjustment, poor expectations, lack of future plans, strong family support, dissatisfaction with the family doctor, and a significant belief in fate.


CONCLUSIONS
Experiences and health care needs of Gujarati Hindu patients with myocardial infarction appear different to those of non-Asians. Cardiac aftercare and rehabilitation services should take account of such information
Webster
Rosemary A
RA
Coronary Care Unit, Leicester General Hospital, Leicester, UK.
Thompson
David R
DR
Mayou
Richard A
RA
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000359:Aftercare / Q000458:organization & administration; D000368:Aged; D001294:Attitude to Health / Q000208:ethnology*; D001459:Bangladesh / Q000208:ethnology; D003289:Convalescence / Q000523:psychology; D004641:Emigration and Immigration; D004739:England; D005260:Female; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006304:Health Status; D018596:Hinduism / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D007194:India / Q000208:ethnology; D008019:Life Style; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009203:Myocardial Infarction / Q000208:ethnology* / Q000534:rehabilitation; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012307:Risk Factors; D012944:Social Support; D018454:Spouses / Q000523:psychology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires