Abstract:
Objectives: This study aimed to explore the association among tagasalo syndrome,
health-risk behavior, and ill health in later life.
Study population: Three-hundred and eighty-four (384) male and female patients aged 35
years and older from Pasay City General Hospital
Methods: A questionnaire that includes a screening scale, which was pretested among 70
adults, was used. Data were collected through self-administration of the questionnaire
and through interviews. Logistic regression analysis was employed to adjust for the
potential confounding effects of sex on the relationship among numbers of assumed roles,
health-risk behaviors, and chronic health conditions. Data from the qualitative interviews
were transcribed where key themes, patterns of responses, and significant quotes were
highlighted. Data from the three phases were finally presented in triangulated form
Results: The results indicated that 81% of the respondents are considered as tagasalo and
50% of them had assumed at least one role. Providing financially, ensuring emotional
security, and taking care of family members were the most commonly reported roles.
Moreover, love for the family and insufficient economic income were the frequent factors
that led the respondents to become tagasalo. Health-risk behavior consequences were
mostly in the form of smoking, alcohol and other drug use, as well as physical inactivity
and unhealthy eating behavior. The general trend shows that there was a relatively strong
relationship between tagasalo syndrome and health-risk behavior, while it shows
significant trend between tagasalo syndrome and disease. The findings, therefore,
indicate that a major part of the current health condition of the patient-participants can be
attributed to their role as family burden-bearers.
Conclusion: This study implied that burden taking within the family remains as an
endearing trait reflective of the Filipino’s warm and supportive family system. However,
psychosocial as well as biomedical support must be given to Tagasalos as the study
showed that burden taking can have deleterious consequences on both physical and
mental health.
