VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 7

🎉 This month, we are thrilled to celebrate the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)! Enacted on July 26, 1990, this legislation champions the rights of individuals with disabilities and paves the way for equal opportunities. Join us in building a more inclusive society that supports the needs of the South Asian community in the United States.

📣 Spread Awareness: Leverage social media platforms, newsletters, and community forums to amplify the ADA's message and its transformative impact.

💬 Engage in Dialogue: Organize virtual discussions, panels, or webinars that speak to the South Asian community about advocating for disability rights and promoting inclusivity.

🤝 Collaborate with Disability Organizations: Forge partnerships with local disability organizations that cater to the South Asian community.

🎨 Support Disable Shine a spotlight on the talents and achievements of disabled individuals within our South Asian community.

🌐 Foster Inclusion: Ensure events, programs, and services are accessible, keeping in mind the cultural nuances of the South Asian community.

For more resources, please visit the Americans with Disabilities Act website and the Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund (DREDF).

Research & News Highlights

World Bank's South Asia Economic Focus, Spring 2023 Report - Highlights opportunities and challenges faced by South Asia in the global economy and emphasizes the need for equal educational opportunities of the impact of global and regional shocks on the region.

COVID-19's Impact on South Asia's Youth Could Last Generations - The World Bank warns that the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on South Asia's youth could last generations and highlights the need for urgent investments in education and human capital development.

NCAPA issued the statement in response to SCOTUS's decision in SFFA v. Harvard and SFFA v. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-CH) that #affirmativeaction programs violate the 14th Amendment. Read full statement here.

South Asian Heritage Month

🎊South Asian Heritage Month, celebrated from July 18 to August 17, is a time to honor the culture and contributions of South Asia and their people. This month, we celebrate the existence and legacy of South Asians who play a significant role in preserving the rich history and amplifying the voices of millions of people around the world.

Here's how you can honor South Asian Heritage Month in 2023:

📚 Educate Yourself: Dive into the rich South Asia's history to better understand the cultural diversity in regions and current challenges.

🏆 Recognize Contributions: Acknowledge the contributions of South Asians to the worlds of science, medicine, art, politics, and social justice.

🌏 Learn about Cultures: Discover the diverse cultures of South Asia and

countries in the region that differ geographically, socially, politically, and culturally.

📣 Spread the Word: Amplify South Asian Heritage Month, which is currently underrepresented in mainstream media, by sharing with friends, family, and coworkers.

Remember, every action counts! Let's make this July a month of celebration, recognition, and action. Together, we can make a difference.

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South Asian Public Health Association

VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 6

Nurturing Inclusivity: Spotlighting LGBTQIA+ Advocacy in South Asian Communities

Happy PRIDE! June is a time of celebration and honoring the trailblazers of the LGBTQIA+ movement. While significant progress has been achieved in many parts of the world, it is crucial to acknowledge that some countries still subject individuals to legal discrimination, criminalization, and persecution based on their sexual orientation and gender identity. Research indicates that LGBTQ adults and youth face a higher risk of suicide, particularly during their teenage years and early 20s.

Within the South Asian population, many individuals encounter stigma and societal pressures due to cultural expectations, notions of honor, and the desire to conform to traditional norms. This can result in struggles with self-acceptance, mental health challenges, and strained relationships with family and community.

Nevertheless, an empowering movement is emerging among LGBTQIA+ South Asians who are advocating for visibility, acceptance, and equal rights. SAPHA aims to seize this month as an opportunity to highlight organizations and researchers who are creating safe spaces to foster dialogue, education, and ultimately nurture acceptance and inclusivity. Stay tuned on our social media channels for more updates!

ICYMI

On May 8th, the South Asian Public Health Association (SAPHA) joined the National Council of Asian Pacific Americans (NCAPA) Coalition members: Association of Asian Pacific Community Health Organizations (AAPCHO), Papa Ola Lōkahi, Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum, National Asian American Pacific Islander Mental Health Association (NAAPIMHA), APPEAL -- Asian Pacific Partners for Empowerment, Advocacy and Leadership, Southeast Asia Resource Action Center (SEARAC), Empowering Pacific Islander Communities (EPIC), and National Asian Pacific American Women's Forum (NAPAWF) in Washington DC for a roundtable discussion with Secretary of Health, Xavier Becerra, and moderated by WHIAANHPI to discuss critical issues concerning health equity for the AANHPI community. It was inspiring to see the Secretary's commitment to addressing these challenges and promoting a more just, equitable and accessible healthcare system. You can read more about this event here.

In addition to this, SAPHA was invited to the White House to attend a special screening of 'American Born Chinese,' where President Biden and Ke Huy Quan spoke about the struggles and accomplishments of the AANHPI community.

SAPHA President, Samira Khan, was also invited to be a panelist at the Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies (APAICS) Legislative Leadership Summit for the 'Breaking the Stigma: Addressing Mental Health in our Community' panel on May 9th and discussed the crucial role of understanding the barriers to addressing mental health in the AANHPI community in order to promote overall well-being and equity.

A full video of this panel can be accessed here.

Lastly, On June 7th, SAPHA was honored to partner with the Indian American Impact Summit again this year on the health panel titled “A South Asian Health Agenda” alongside VOT-ER and ASANA Voices. SAPHA President Samira Khan was invited to moderate the session featuring esteemed panelists Dr. Sejal Hathi, The White House Senior Policy Advisor for Public Health; Dr. Alka Kanaya, Professor of Medicine at UCSF and Principal Investigator at MASALA Study; Dr. Ashwin Vasan, Commissioner of the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, and Dr. Meena Seshamani, Director for the Center for Medicare. The conversation touched upon various topics of concern for South Asian Health, with an overall theme of a need for an integration of health policy and research with community outreach. By bridging these essential components, we move closer to the goal of attaining health equity and making a profound, tangible impact. It was also great to have representation from previous and current SAPHA Board members (Gayatri Malhotra and Anmol Sharma respectively) at the Summit. Over the past 24 years, SAPHA has been run entirely by volunteers and operated virtually. It is the unwavering dedication and passion of colleagues like these that have allowed SAPHA to grow and to sustain momentum and create a meaningful impact.

Research & News Highlights

South Asian Soar launched their Abortion Care Guide (ACG) by & for South Asians in 20 South Asian languages! The ACG provides medically-factually & accessible information on abortion methods, logistics, and aftercare, and it was created with support of @plannedparenthood, @respond_crisis, and @_artivistt. To find the ACG in your language, visit bit.ly/soaracg! 💚 – https://www.instagram.com/southasiansoar/

Body Image, Eating, and Wellness among South Asian Women Study

Are you a South Asian woman between the ages of 18-30? If so, you are invited to participate in a research study at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU).

Description: In this study, you will complete online health questionnaires assessing your eating habits, emotional well-being, and cultural values. Please note that all of your responses will be kept strictly confidential. Surveys take approximately 30 minutes to complete.

Eligibility: You must identify as South Asian (i.e., descend from India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bhutan and/or the Maldives), be a female at least 18-30 years old, and must have lived in the United States for at least 3 years.

Compensation: All participants who successfully complete the surveys will receive a $10 Amazon gift card for their time.

To get started, please click on this link: https://redcap.vcu.edu/surveys/?s=DXLDLMCRXC3RWY4E 

If you have any questions, please contact the study coordinator, Neha Goel, at eatingandwellnessvcu@gmail.com.

Reading Recommendations

Epidemiology of Diabetes and Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Among Asian American Adults

Culture, diet, economic factors and more affect CVD risk among Asian Americans

Uniting for Equity: Celebrating Juneteenth and Advancing Public Health Through Solidarity

SAPHA would like to shed light on the significance of celebrating Juneteenth as a South Asian and explore the intersections of public health, solidarity, and collaboration. Juneteenth, commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, offers an opportunity for us to reflect, learn, and contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society.

Juneteenth, a momentous occasion in American history, holds relevance for public health, as it highlights the importance of community well-being, equality, and justice. By coming together as South Asians, we can engage in activities that promote understanding, support, and collaboration with the Black community.

Education and awareness play a crucial role in public health. Take the time to learn about the history and significance of Juneteenth. Understanding the struggles faced by African Americans and the importance of their emancipation will foster empathy and help address health disparities rooted in systemic injustices.

Engaging in dialogue and collaboration between the South Asian and Black communities is another way to promote public health. By attending cross-cultural events and joining community organizations that focus on racial justice, we can build strong relationships, work together on initiatives, and address health inequities faced by marginalized communities.

Supporting Black-owned businesses is not only an economic contribution but also a public health action. By shopping at their stores, dining at their restaurants, and using their services, we can uplift the economic status of the Black community, which in turn enhances community well-being.

Public health is also about amplifying voices and challenging stereotypes. Take the initiative to share stories, achievements, and art from the Black community on your platforms. By doing so, we promote understanding, dismantle stereotypes, and contribute to a more inclusive narrative of health and well-being.

Finally, collaboration in public health initiatives is essential. Supporting causes and organizations that work towards racial justice, equality, and improved health outcomes is a tangible way to make a difference. By donating, volunteering, or offering our skills, we can actively contribute to a more equitable society for all.

As South Asians, let us embrace the spirit of Juneteenth, standing in solidarity with the Black community. By educating ourselves, engaging in dialogue, amplifying voices, and supporting initiatives, we can play a vital role in promoting public health, equity, and social justice.

Wishing you a meaningful Juneteenth celebration!

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South Asian Public Health Association

VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 5

AAPI Month: Advancing Leaders Through Opportunity

Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Month is a time to celebrate the rich and diverse contributions of the AAPI community to the United States. In particular, it is an opportunity to recognize and honor the experiences of South Asians living in the US, who have faced unique challenges and made significant contributions to American society.

South Asians in the US have a long and complex history, marked by discrimination, exclusion, and violence. From the anti-Asian immigration laws of the early 20th century to the post-9/11 backlash against Muslims and Sikhs, South Asians have had to fight for recognition, acceptance, and safety in American society. At the same time, South Asians have also made enormous contributions to American culture, politics, and economy, enriching the country with their talents, traditions, and perspectives.

AAPI Month is an opportunity to honor these contributions, to reflect on the challenges that South Asians have faced, and to work towards a more just and equitable society for all. It is a time to celebrate the diversity of the AAPI community and to recognize the unique experiences of South Asians in America. By highlighting the struggles and triumphs of South Asians, AAPI Month can help promote understanding, empathy, and solidarity across communities, and pave the way towards a more inclusive and compassionate America. Therefore, this month we are highlighting some impactful South Asian researchers.

The South Asian Health and Research Group (SAHARA) is a center within the New York University School of Global Public Health dedicated to addressing health disparities and promoting health equity in South Asian communities. SAHARA conducts research, community outreach, and advocacy initiatives to improve the health and well-being of South Asians in the United States and globally. The group focuses on a range of health issues, including chronic diseases, mental health, and infectious diseases, and collaborates with community-based organizations, policymakers, and healthcare providers to develop culturally appropriate and effective interventions. SAHARA's work is crucial in advancing the health of one of the fastest-growing and most diverse populations in the United States.

Dr. Arnab Mukherjea is an Associate Professor of Public Health at California State University, East Bay. He completed his undergraduate and graduate degrees at UC Berkeley and postdoctoral training at UCSF and UC Davis. Arnab's research has been funded by the National Institutes for Health, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Office of Minority Health, and the state of California's Tobacco-Related Disease Research Program and has been published in numerous peer-reviewed journals. His research interests revolve around using community-engaged methods to understand and address health disparities among understudied Asian & Pacific Islander subgroups, with a particular focus on contextual and culturally-framed risk factors.

Research & News Highlights

How queer South Asian American representation helps reduce community's stigma

South Asian Sexual & Mental Health Alliance 

Desi LGBTQ+ Helpline for South Asians 

KhushDC, a social, support and political group

In April, members of the SAPHA board were invited to speak at the University of Maryland's South Asian Student Association's first Health Equity Panel on April 13th. During the panel, they addressed the healthcare disparities that disproportionately affect the South Asian community. To learn more about the panel and the important topics discussed, please visit this link.

Mental Health and South Asians

Mental health includes emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It impacts how one thinks, feels, and acts. It also determines how an individual handles stress, relates to others and makes choices. Mental health is essential at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence to adulthood. 

Data suggest that the prevalence of common mental disorders, such as depression, is higher among Asian Minority Ethnic groups. For example, a study focusing on older adults reported that those from British South Asian backgrounds were considerably more likely to report depressive symptoms when compared with their white European counterparts.1, 2 It is, therefore, important to examine the reasons for such disparities in mental health experiences and to encourage engagement with intervention.

Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity to raise awareness, promote understanding of mental health issues, and encourage people to seek help and support when needed. For South Asians living in the U.S., this is an especially important time to address the stigma and cultural barriers preventing them from accessing mental health services. 

Mental illness is often stigmatized in South Asian cultures, with shame and secrecy surrounding mental health struggles. This can make it difficult for South Asians to seek help and support, exacerbating mental health issues and leading to negative outcomes. According to leading mental health expert Professor Dinesh Bhugra, the South Asian population carries “a bigger notion of shame” with them than other ethnic populations. In addition, the populations’ religious and cultural influences do not consider mental health a medical issue but rather a “superstitious belief.” However, that notion is changing slowly with more mental health awareness and advocacy efforts. 

According to a review published in the Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health, several studies have found low mental health service utilization among immigrant South Asian communities due to culturally-linked stigma both in the U.K. and the U.S. This said stigma has been shown to impede health-seeking behavior. Among South Asian communities, it is often believed that disclosing a mental illness will bring shame upon the family and is deemed a sign of weakness. Consequently, individuals keep problems within the immediate family, and not utilize health services, and rarely discuss mental health because of the posed risk to their reputation and status. However, discussing mental health in South Asia must be socially normalized to increase mental health care utilization among the community.

Therefore, during Mental Health Awareness Month, it is important to recognize the unique challenges faced by South Asians living in the U.S. and to work towards breaking down the cultural barriers that prevent them from accessing mental health care. By promoting open and honest conversations about mental health, we can help reduce stigma and increase awareness and understanding, ultimately leading to better mental health outcomes for South Asians and all individuals.

There are several things that South Asians can do during Mental Health Awareness Month in May 2023 to support mental health and reduce stigma:

Educate themselves and others about mental health: Take the time to learn about mental health issues and how they affect individuals. Share this information with friends and family and encourage them to do the same.

Seek support: If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, seek support. This can include talking to a mental health professional, joining a support group, or confiding in a trusted friend or family member.

Challenge stigma: Speak out against the stigma surrounding mental health in South Asian communities. Challenge misconceptions and stereotypes, and encourage others to do the same.

Practice self-care: Take care of your own mental health by engaging in activities that promote well-being, such as exercise, mindfulness, and self-reflection.

Advocate for change: Get involved in efforts to improve mental health services and support in South Asian communities. This can include advocating for better access to mental health care, supporting mental health organizations, and participating in mental health awareness campaigns.

By taking these actions, South Asians can help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and promote a more supportive and compassionate society for all.

LGBTQIA+ Empowerment Day

May 17th is officially recognized as the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT). LGBT rights are not special rights and no one should be treated differently. This year’s theme is Together Always: United in Diversity. As members of the South Asian community, it is important for us to acknowledge and raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals. By educating ourselves and others about the experiences of our LGBTQIA+ peers, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and accepting society for all. Let us strive to be allies and advocates, and support efforts to end discrimination and promote equality for the LGBTQIA+ community within our own communities and beyond.

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South Asian Public Health Association

VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 4

Celebrating Dalit History Month!

On February 21st, Seattle became the first US city to add caste to their anti-discrimination laws. This historic ordinance, proposed and championed by Councilmember Kshama Sawant, prohibits caste based discrimination in hiring practices, workplace conditions, housing, and public accommodation (i.e. public transportation, hotels, restaurants, medical offices, etc.).

Caste apartheid is still prevalent within the South Asian countries of origin and in the South Asian American diaspora, particularly in the tech sector. According to a 2016 survey conducted by Equality Labs, 67% of the Dalit American respondents reported that they had experienced caste based discrimination at their workplace in the US, whilst 60% shared they had experienced caste based derogatory comments. Moreover, in 2020, the state of California filed a lawsuit against Cisco Systems Inc. for caste based workplace discrimination against a Dalit employee. These injustices are compounded when folks are experiencing both white-supremacy and caste based oppression.

The seeds for the caste equity movement in the United States were planted by Dalit activist and political leader, B.R. Ambedkar when he attended Columbia University in the early 1990s; read more about his work here. We hope that the passing of this bill and the momentum garnered by the Dalit Rights movement in the United States serve as a catalyst for initiating conversations on how we can check our privileges within our South Asian American communities and advocate for caste equity nationwide.

Recommended Reading: Works that center Dalit voices as sources of knowledge, agency and solutions:

• ‘The Trauma of Caste: A Dalit Feminist Meditation on Survivorship, Healing, and Abolition’ by Thenmozhi Soundararajan 
• Caste in the United States: A Survey of Caste Among South Asian Americans by Equality Labs 
• ‘Castes in India: Their Mechanism, Genesis and Development’ by B. R. Ambedkar

Folks to Follow: 

• Equality Labs: @ equalitylabs
• Seema Hari @ seemahari
• Ambedkar Association of North America @ dalitdiva

National Public Health Week

Here are some domestic violence resources for South Asians in the United States:

Sakhi for South Asian Women: Sakhi is a non-profit organization that provides support and resources to South Asian women who are survivors of domestic violence. They offer a helpline, advocacy, and counseling services.

Asian Pacific Institute on Gender-Based Violence (API-GBV): API-GBV is a national organization that addresses gender-based violence in Asian and Pacific Islander communities, including South Asians. They provide training, technical assistance, and resources to service providers and community members.

Here are some reproductive justice resources for South Asians living in the United States:

Narika: Narika is a non-profit organization that provides support and advocacy services for South Asian survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. They also offer educational resources and workshops on reproductive health and rights.

Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAAJ): AAAJ is a national civil rights organization that works to protect and promote the rights of Asian Americans, including reproductive justice. They provide legal services, advocacy, and community education programs.

Planned Parenthood: Planned Parenthood is a national organization that provides reproductive health care services, including contraception, abortion, and STI testing and treatment. They offer language-specific services and have resources available for South Asians and other immigrant communities.

This is by no means a comprehensive list, we are highlighting just a few organizations. More organizations and resources can be found on our website at sapha.org.

Research & News Highlights

COVID-19 vaccination disparities: South Asians in the US have lower COVID-19 vaccination rates compared to other racial and ethnic groups. A study found that language and technology barriers, as well as cultural beliefs and mistrust, may be contributing to this disparity. 

Diabetes risk: South Asians are at higher risk for type 2 diabetes compared to other racial and ethnic groups in the US. This increased risk may be due to genetic factors, as well as lifestyle and environmental factors.

Mental health: South Asians in the United States may be at increased risk for mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. A study found that acculturative stress, or stress related to adapting to a new culture, may be a contributing factor. 

Cardiovascular disease: South Asians are at increased risk for cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks and strokes. This increased risk may be due to a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors, including high rates of smoking, hypertension, and diabetes. 

Cancer risk: South Asians in the United States may be at increased risk for certain types of cancer, including breast and prostate cancer. A study published in the Journal of Global Oncology found that this increased risk may be due to genetic factors, as well as lifestyle factors such as diet and physical activity.

Celebrating Ramadan

More than 1.8 million Muslims across the world are currently observing Ramadan. Ramadan gives Muslims opportunities to feel sympathy for others who are deprived, develops self-control, improves willpower, strengthens their capability to endure overeating temptations and brings about a stronger feeling of modesty, spirituality and social involvement. Over 85% of individuals with diabetes practice fasting despite the risks. For many diabetics, they reported experiencing a pleasant feeling. 

Ramadan may pose challenges for individuals with eating disorders. The temptation to indulge in large quantities of food rapidly at Iftar, which is the meal eaten after sundown to break the fast, can lead to a sense of being out of control and feeling "ashamed." This may result in a "binge-purge cycle" that sets back the recovery of those with eating disorders. While individuals with physical conditions and illnesses certified by healthcare professionals are excused from fasting, individuals with mental health illnesses are often not granted the same leniency. Consequently, they may encounter further "guilt and shame" from their communities and society at large. Therefore, it is vital for faith leaders and family members to acknowledge the challenges that Muslims with mental health issues encounter. This recognition and acceptance can help break the cycle of shame and guilt that is prevalent across generations in society. You can read more about this here. 

It is important to note that COVID-19, increases in global food prices, and the war in Ukraine, can impact Eid-al-Fitr. The celebration of Eid-al-Fitr typically involves communal gatherings, feasting, and prayers, and these activities may be affected by the prevailing circumstances at that time. It is crucial to follow health and safety guidelines and regulations to prevent the spread of any potential outbreaks and to ensure the well-being of all individuals during the celebration.

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South Asian Public Health Association

VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 3

Celebrating International Women’s Day!

The theme of this year is #EmbraceEquity and to embrace this theme, President Biden and Vice President Harris introduced the National Strategy on Gender Equity and Equality. This strategy addresses barriers faced by historically marginalized groups including women of color, LGBTQIA+ people, those with disabilities, and everyone living with persistent poverty and inequality. 

This International Women’s Day, SAPHA recognizes the commendable work of South Asian female researchers in the US!

Research & News Highlights

• International Women’s Day 2023: When we embrace equity, we can embrace peace
• BMJ- Embrace Equality 
• Asian Voice- Embracing Equality
• The unraveling equity podcast

March is National Nutrition Month

In March we raise awareness of the benefits of having a healthy and nutritious diet. South Asians are four times more likely to develop heart disease than the general population. They can have serious cardiovascular diseases even with a normal BMI. Diet is a manageable risk factor which can help reduce the risks. Diet becomes an increasing concern with Ramadan starting soon. While intermittent fasting is actively being discussed, Ramadan poses no danger to healthy people. However, Muslim patients with acute or chronic medical conditions need to stay well-educated and informed of potential risk factors, as fasting may adversely affect their health if not addressed properly. There are nearly 90 million diabetic Muslims worldwide and estimates show that 79% of Type 2 diabetes patients fast during Ramadan. It is important to have a preRamadan medical assessment and let your primary care physician know that you are planning to fast so that you both are aware of risk factors and can closely monitor your health!

There is quite a bit of research on this topic:

Nutrition transition in South Asia: the emergence of non-communicable chronic diseases

The Association between Acculturation and Dietary Patterns of South Asian Immigrants

Diet quality and risk factors for cardiovascular disease among South Asians in Alberta

Interestingly, bright colors are a catalyst for our brain, exciting it with happy emotions. Our brain releases many endogenous opioids that give us that euphoric feeling. Furthermore, during this festival, running, jumping, and dancing are a great way to get in some high intensity exercises. Play is great for brain health and overall wellbeing! 

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South Asian Public Health Association