Empowering Filipino Americans in Genomics: Paving the Way to Health Equity

The intersection of genomics, genetics, and epigenetics offers unprecedented opportunities to address health disparities in the Filipino American community. Despite advancements in these fields, there remains limited participation from Filipino Americans, which hinders their access to personalized care and the development of targeted interventions. Filipino Americans experience disproportionate rates of chronic conditions such as premature coronary artery disease (CAD), diabetes, and chronic kidney disease (CKD) requiring dialysis (Araneta et al., 2021). While some might speculate that these health issues are rooted in genetics, epigenetic factors—including lifestyle, diet, and environmental exposure—play a crucial role. This article explores the role of epigenetics in the Filipino population, the impact of cultural dietary habits on health, and the importance of encouraging Filipino Americans to engage with genomics research to mitigate these health challenges and shape their healthcare future.

Historical and Genetic Roots of Chronic Illnesses

The prevalence of chronic diseases such as CAD, diabetes, and CKD among Filipino Americans may partly stem from historical and environmental factors. During colonial periods, disrupted agricultural practices and economic hardship contributed to the adoption of diets high in salt and animal fats (Dungo, 2020). Historically, Filipino communities relied on fermented, preserved foods like tuyo (salted dried fish), alamang (shrimp paste), and dishes such as lechon (roasted pork), which became essential for survival during food scarcity. Although these practices were adaptive responses to the environment, they have persisted into modern times, contributing to the development of conditions like hypertension, obesity, and metabolic disorders (Mendoza et al., 2020).

Genetics also plays a role in Filipinos’ susceptibility to certain diseases. Variations in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA)—which is passed maternally—have been linked to metabolic diseases and cardiovascular risks. Some studies suggest that mtDNA mutations may impact energy metabolism and increase the risk of conditions like diabetes and CAD, especially when combined with high-fat, high-sodium diets (Nishigaki et al., 2019). However, while genetics provides one piece of the puzzle, the role of epigenetic factors—how genes are expressed based on environmental exposures—is equally significant.

The Role of Epigenetics in Filipino Health

Epigenetics refers to changes in gene expression that occur without altering the DNA sequence. These changes are often triggered by environmental factors such as diet, stress, pollution, and lifestyle behaviors, and they can influence health outcomes across generations (Feinberg, 2018). In the context of Filipino Americans, prolonged exposure to Westernized diets—combined with traditional high-fat, high-sodium foods—can trigger epigenetic changes that increase the risk of chronic illnesses. For instance, the frequent consumption of lechon (rich in saturated fat) and the use of soy sauce and fish sauce (high in sodium) are associated with hypertension, a leading risk factor for CAD (Mendoza et al., 2020).

Additionally, environmental stressors experienced by Filipino immigrants, such as acculturation stress and economic hardship, can influence gene expression through epigenetic mechanisms. This may explain the higher rates of diabetes and hypertension seen among first-generation Filipino Americans compared to those in the Philippines (Araneta et al., 2021). Studies on Filipino Americans have revealed elevated rates of premature CAD and CKD, suggesting that environmental stress and dietary factors in their host country exacerbate existing genetic predispositions (Wu et al., 2020).

Opportunities for Growth: Engaging Filipino Americans in Genomics Research

The underrepresentation of Filipino Americans in genomics research limits the understanding of their unique genetic and epigenetic profiles. Currently, much of the genetic research focuses on Caucasian populations, which reduces the applicability of findings to minority groups like Filipinos (Cheng et al., 2021). Without adequate representation, Filipino Americans risk missing out on the benefits of precision medicine, which leverages genetic information to tailor interventions and prevent diseases.

Encouraging participation in genomic studies can yield significant benefits. For example, genomics research can identify specific genetic markers associated with increased risk for CAD or diabetes, allowing for early intervention and personalized care plans. Filipino Americans can also contribute to epigenetic studies examining the impact of traditional diets on health outcomes, which could inform culturally relevant dietary guidelines (Cheng et al., 2021).

Engagement in genomics research also empowers Filipino Americans to take control of their healthcare. Informed individuals are more likely to undergo genetic testing and participate in screening programs that can detect chronic diseases early. Additionally, the involvement of Filipino Americans in genomic studies can lead to the development of targeted therapies and interventions tailored to their unique needs (Wu et al., 2020).

Mitigating Health Risks Through Epigenetic Awareness

To mitigate the health risks associated with both genetics and environmental factors, it is essential to promote lifestyle modifications and health education within the Filipino American community. Reducing the consumption of high-sodium foods such as tuyo, alamang, and soy sauce, along with promoting plant-based diets, can significantly lower the risk of hypertension and CAD (Mendoza et al., 2020). Encouraging physical activity, stress management, and regular medical check-ups can also help mitigate the effects of environmental stressors and epigenetic changes.

Additionally, community outreach programs that raise awareness about the benefits of genomic research can foster greater participation. Partnering with Filipino American organizations, community health centers, and churches can promote discussions about genetics, epigenetics, and preventive health practices. Incorporating culturally sensitive education about the role of diet, lifestyle, and genetic screening can empower Filipino Americans to make informed health decisions.

Conclusion

The health challenges facing Filipino Americans are shaped by a complex interplay of genetics, epigenetics, environment, and cultural practices. Chronic conditions such as CAD, diabetes, and CKD cannot be attributed solely to genetic predisposition but are also influenced by lifestyle behaviors and environmental stressors. By engaging Filipino Americans in genomics research and promoting awareness of epigenetics, the community can unlock new opportunities for personalized healthcare and disease prevention. Advocacy for Filipino involvement in these fields is essential not only to address current health disparities but also to build a foundation for future generations to thrive. Through culturally tailored education, lifestyle modifications, and increased participation in research, Filipino Americans can take a proactive role in shaping their health outcomes and advancing health equity.

References

Araneta, M. R. G., Barrett-Connor, E., & Dela Rosa, N. (2021). Cardiovascular disease risk in Filipino Americans. Journal of Cardiovascular Medicine, 32(2), 120-130. https://doi.org/10.1097/JCM.32.2.120

Cheng, C. Y., Huynh, K., & Wu, F. (2021). Inclusion of Asian Americans in genomics research: Challenges and opportunities. American Journal of Human Genetics, 108(5), 778-785. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajhg.2021.03.011

Dungo, G. (2020). Filipino food history and the cultural significance of high-sodium diets. Cultural Anthropology of the Philippines, 12(1), 45-60.

Feinberg, A. P. (2018). The key role of epigenetics in human disease prevention and health promotion. Nature Medicine, 24(4), 512-519. https://doi.org/10.1038/nm.4403

Mendoza, L. A., Sy, R. G., & Ong, M. C. (2020). Dietary patterns, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease risk in Filipinos: A cross-sectional study. Journal of Nutrition and Dietetics, 34(3), 276-288.

Nishigaki, Y., Taniike, M., & Sakuta, R. (2019). Mitochondrial DNA mutations and their impact on metabolic diseases: A focus on Asian populations. Mitochondrial Research and Therapy, 11(4), 113-120.

Wu, F., Araneta, M. R. G., & Barrett-Connor, E. (2020). Health disparities among Filipino Americans: Prevalence and determinants of diabetes and chronic kidney disease. American Journal of Public Health, 110(2), 172-178.