Bilirubin levels are definitely higher in Chinese (Vietnamese, Inuit,
Indian, African), that is, everyone except Caucasian, who have lower
bilirubins (after the first week) than others.  But in 1998, who makes the
rules?  Therefore, it is said that Caucasian bilirubin levels are the
normals, and others too high.  Good example of relativity.  If the baby's is
gaining weight well, nursing well, and is over a week, I wouldn't get too
excited about this bilirubin, though I would make sure the urine is clear
(Biliary Atresia is also more common in Asian babies), and the baby does not
have congenital hypothyroidism (usually picked up in the screen).

Jack Newman, MD, FRCPC