Filipino domestic workers in Hong Kong: Health related behaviors, health locus of control and social support

A total of 290 female Filipino domestic helpers residing in Hong Kong compl eted a concurrent cross sectional survey designed to provide an initial rep ort of basic data which measured mental health symptoms, health-related beh aviors, health locus of control and social support. The four top ranking sy mptoms of mental distress reported included waking in the early hours, lone liness, worry and taking a long time to get to sleep. In general, the level of health related behaviors was high. with a satisfactory diet and low rat es of alcohol, nicotine and coffee consumption. However, few women Surveyed had previously had a Pap smear. There were also low scores for other preve ntive health practices. Reinforcement for health behaviors was seen as eith er a matter of chance or being influenced by powerful others for two thirds of the women. The conclusion highlights the intersection between gender, i mmigration and social class by drawing attention to issues of acceptance an d accessibility of healthcare services for immigrant within host countries. In addition, cultural directions for immigrant health education are outlin ed.