SEASON 1 | EPISODE 6

South Asian Public Health Association Spotlight Series

SAPHA continues its journey into the world of podcasts with our latest installment! Introducing the sixth episode of the South Asian Public Health Association Spotlight Series, where we dive deep into the extraordinary careers and journeys of public health pioneers, with a special focus on the South Asian community.

In commemoration of the 25th anniversary of the South Asian Public Health Association, each episode promises enlightening discussions, motivational narratives, and an intimate exploration of the impactful contributions made by former SAPHA board members, shaping the landscape of public health.

Episode 6

Dr. Amita Vyas, PhD, MHS

Our sixth episode features the esteemed Dr. Amita Vyas, a tenured Professor at the George Washington University School of Public Health and Co-Founder of the Global India Fund. Dr. Vyas has dedicated her career to addressing the health, education, and well-being of women, children, and families both locally and globally. Her inspiring journey began at the age of 20 when she worked alongside Mother Teresa in Calcutta, India, and has since led numerous large-scale intervention and research studies. Dr. Vyas' contributions to public health include co-producing the Girl Rising India film and campaign alongside Priyanka Chopra and Freida Pinto, launching media campaigns and grassroots-level interventions to address social inequities. She is also the Director of the GW Center of Excellence in Maternal & Child Health and has been recognized with several awards for her outstanding work in the field. Dr. Vyas served on the inaugural SAPHA Board and was also an editor for the SAPHA Brown paper.

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Learn more about Dr. Vyas below:

Dr. Amita N. Vyas is a tenured Professor at the George Washington University School of Public Health and Co-Founder of the Global India Fund. In 2014, she joined Girl Rising and co-produced the Girl Rising India film and campaign. Her journey into public health began at the age of 20 when she worked alongside Mother Teresa in Calcutta, India. This experience inspired her to pursue a career in public health, focusing on the health, education, and well-being of vulnerable populations.

Dr. Vyas earned her Master's in Demography and her doctorate in Population and Family Health Sciences at the Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health. She has received several awards for her academic achievements and is the Director of the GW Center of Excellence in Maternal & Child Health. Her research primarily focuses on the health and well-being of adolescent girls and women, and she has led countless intervention and research studies globally. She is also a Non-resident Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council, focusing on the intersection of health, violence, and women's economic empowerment.

In 2007, Dr. Vyas founded the Global India Fund, a non-profit organization committed to making a difference in India. She resides in McLean, Virginia, with her husband and three teenage children.

Listen to us on Youtube!

Listen to us on Spotify!

Subscribe to SAPHA’s Spotlight Series to hear more captivating discussions with trailblazers in public health.

YouTube

Spotify

Thanks for your interest in SAPHA!

We are continually striving to enhance the health and well-being of our diverse South Asian communities. Through advocacy, education, and meaningful community partnerships, we are dedicated to making a positive impact. Learn more about our mission or contribute to our cause by visiting sapha.org!

If you enjoyed this podcast and want to support our efforts in creating engaging content, please consider making a donation.

Subscribe to SAPHA’s Spotlight Series to hear more captivating discussions with trailblazers in public health.



Follow us on Youtube and Spotify to be the first to access our podcasts!

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Ask them to sign up for our email list here.

SEASON 1 | EPISODE 5

South Asian Public Health Association Spotlight Series

SAPHA is excited to expand its podcast offerings with our latest release! Introducing Episode 5 of the South Asian Public Health Association Spotlight Series, where we delve into the remarkable careers and journeys of public health pioneers, with a special focus on the South Asian community.

In celebration of SAPHA's 25th anniversary, each episode features enlightening discussions, motivational narratives, and an intimate exploration of the impactful contributions made by former SAPHA board members, who have shaped the landscape of public health.

Episode 5

Kalpana Bhandarkar, MPH, MBA

Our fifth episode features the esteemed Kalpana Bhandarkar, an accomplished leader in healthcare and civic engagement. With nearly 20 years of experience dedicated to improving access to quality healthcare for underserved populations, Kalpana's expertise in healthcare leadership and advocacy is invaluable. Currently, she owns and operates Spring Bhee Advisory, providing advisory services and leadership coaching for healthcare and nonprofits. Kalpana was a founding board member of SAPHA, contributing significantly to its incorporation, development and co-authored the Youth Health chapter of the "Brown Paper: Health of South Asians in the United States."

Listen to us on Youtube!

Listen to us on Spotify!

Learn more about Ms. Bhandarkar below:

Kalpana Bhandarkar has nearly 20 years of experience in health care and civic engagement. Within health care, Kalpana has dedicated her professional career to improving access to quality health care for people living in low-resource settings, having held leadership positions at three New York City hospitals (NYC Health + Hospitals, Maimonides Medical Center and Mount Sinai Adolescent Health Center) and having worked in health care consulting with safety net hospital clients. She has also long been engaged in advancing child and adolescent advocacy initiatives statewide and nationally. Currently, she owns and operates Spring Bhee Advisory focused on advisory services and leadership coaching for health care and non-profit organizations.

Kalpana is an active Board member of three non-profit organizations: ERASE Racism, a civil rights organization focused on fair housing and educational equity; Schuyler Center for Analysis and Advocacy, a statewide child advocacy organization working to advance policies for children and families in low-resource settings; and She Is the Universe, a global leadership development organization for girls. Kalpana also has a long history of participating in voter registration, voter outreach and canvassing related to local, state and presidential elections.

She was a founding Board member of SAPHA, assisted with the organization's incorporation, initial fundraising, and Board development, and co-authored the Youth Health chapter of the Brown Paper: A Health of South Asians in the United States. She served on the SAPHA Board from its incorporation in 2002 until 2004.

Listen to us on Youtube!

Listen to us on Spotify!

Thanks for your interest in SAPHA!

We are continually striving to enhance the health and well-being of our diverse South Asian communities. Through advocacy, education, and meaningful community partnerships, we are dedicated to making a positive impact. Learn more about our mission or contribute to our cause by visiting sapha.org!

If you enjoyed this podcast and want to support our efforts in creating engaging content, please consider making a donation.

Subscribe to SAPHA’s Spotlight Series to hear more captivating discussions with trailblazers in public health.



Follow us on Youtube and Spotify to be the first to access our podcasts!

Know someone who might enjoy these emails?

Ask them to sign up for our email list here.

VOLUME 3 | ISSUE 6

Celebrating Pride

June marks Pride Month, an opportunity to uplift the LGBTQ+ community in the United States and across the world. The LGBTQ+ community has seen great milestones throughout its vast history, and this month allows us to celebrate progress, while still acknowledging the continued struggles LGBTQ+ individuals still face today.

Compared to heterosexual counterparts, LGBTQ+ individuals in the US face disproportionate risk for living in poverty, lacking access to insurance and timely healthcare, and worsened mental and physical health symptoms. These disparities are heightened in severity for LGBTQ+ people of color.

Queer and transgender South Asians in the US are placed in a unique position: although they might live in a country with legal protections for marriage and affirming care, they also witness many of their home countries neglecting to recognize the rights of their community. Further, many LGBTQ+ South Asians across the world struggle to be open about their identity, due to the continued prevalence of homophobia/transphobia and stigma in our culture.

The health and human rights of the LGBTQ+ community is a public health issue, especially in today’s global political climate, where access to affirming care and other rights are continuously challenged. More work must be done to ensure equity and justice for this population, and it is our job as public health professionals to strengthen the health of the LGBTQ+ community as much as we can. 

We encourage you to uplift your queer and transgender community  and support them at Pride events near you. We also encourage you to check out the work of Queer Desi organizations working to tackle stigma and increase acceptance within our community, including the South Asian Sexual and Mental Health Alliance (SASMHA), Desi Rainbow, and Desi lgbtQ+ Helpline (DEQH). 

Mental Health in the South Asian Community

Here at SAPHA we are continuing the conversation about mental health, a topic critical to continuously uplift within the South Asian community. Mental health is often viewed as stigmatized within the South Asian community, making discussions around seeking mental health services aberrant and difficult to normalize. Many view mental health as a taboo topic, and our community sometimes regards conversations around the topic as unnecessary, which can lead to internalizing not needing to reach out for help (Psychology Today, 2023). 

Making the decision to seek help is even harder when community beliefs perpetuate stigma (NAMI, 2023). Organizations like SAKHI work to create conversation around mental health by destigmatizing the topic and providing a space where South Asians can be connected to resources. Once help is sought, however, some South Asians feel that therapists not of their background can’t fully understand what they’re going through, making it difficult to connect (Center for Mindfulness & CBT) with the care provider. Organizations like Brown Girl Therapy (NBC News, 2024) and Gaya (ABC7 News, 2024) are working to change this; these groups are sensitive to the stigma around mental health within South Asian culture, and the battle it takes to make the decision to seek help, whether a person’s community is supportive of it or not. 

We recommend you explore the resources below to help you begin conversations with family and friends about mental health:

3 Tips For South-Asian Individuals Seeking Mental Health Support

Reverse the silent mental health crisis in South Asian communities

How to Start (and Continue!) a Conversation About Mental Health

How to have conversations around mental health

How to Talk to Parents or Guardian

Addressing Health-Based Inequities: SAPHA Workshop on Caste-Based Discrimination

Last weekend, SAPHA Board and Committee members attended SAPHA's Health Equity Workshop on "Caste Based Discrimination- A Public Health Issue". Thank you to Dadasaheb Tandale for sharing his research on how caste discrimination results in health equities for Dalit women in the Indian context, as well as policy and advocacy call-ins to address caste discrimination within the South Asian diaspora at large in the US. Caste very much exists in South Asian communities in the US, and as health professionals, it is important to advocate for anti-caste based discrimination legislation and understand how caste impacts health and well-being.

Stay tuned for SAPHA's upcoming toolkit on 'Caste as a Public Health Issue in the US' that will uplift research, resources, talking points, policy + advocacy, and recommended reading lists!

Celebrating Juneteenth

Juneteenth highlights the importance of community well-being, equality, and justice. As South Asian Americans, it is  vital to engage in activities that promote understanding and collaboration with the Black community. Building strong, inclusive communities requires us to understand each other's journeys and work together towards common goals.

• Education and awareness are key. Learning about Juneteenth and the struggles faced by African Americans fosters empathy and helps address health disparities rooted in systemic injustices.

• Engage in dialogue and collaboration between South Asian and Black communities promotes public health. Attend cross-cultural events and join organizations focused on racial justice to build strong relationships and address health inequities.

• Support Black-owned businesses. Shopping, dining, and using services from these businesses uplift the Black community’s economic status, enhancing overall community well-being.

• Amplify voices and challenge stereotypes. Share stories, achievements, and art from the Black community on your platforms to promote understanding and dismantle stereotypes.

• Collaborate on public health initiatives. Support organizations working towards racial justice, equality, and improved health outcomes through donations, volunteering, or offering skills.

Research and News Highlights

Volunteers wanted for South Asian Alzheimer’s study

Utah South Asian Cardiovascular Health Initiative (U-SACHI), an intervention aimed at improving cardiovascular health among South Asian populations.

Study to Focus on Cardio Health in Asian American, Pacific Islander Communities

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) has launched a seven-year study called MOSAAIC to examine cardiovascular and other health conditions in a diverse cohort of 10,000 Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander adults across the U.S., aiming to address health disparities and advance health equity within these underrepresented groups. The study will involve six research institutions and focus on various health factors, including lung health, mental health, and social determinants of health.

Exploring the Health Benefits of Traditional Diets

Women Heroes in South Asia: Charting a New Course Against Plastics Pollution

The Colorado Lotus Project: A Statewide Look at the Strengths and Barriers Facing Colorado’s Asian American and Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander Communities. Read the full report here. 

Understand the Current Heat/ Environmental Crisis Affecting South Asia

Why Climate Finance is Crucial for Addressing South Asia's Extreme Heat Crisis

How heat waves form, and how climate change makes them worse

South East Asia records highest deaths due to climate change every year: WHO

Freak April heatwave in Southeast Asia ‘virtually impossible’ without climate crisis

Organizational Spotlight

Act To Change is a national organization working to end bullying for Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) youth. Starting in 2015 as a White House initiative, in partnership with the Sikh Coalition and the Coalition of Asian Pacifics in Entertainment, the campaign transitioned into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization led by actor and former White House AAPI Commissioner Maulik Pancholy. 

Act To Change accomplishments include   

• +10,000 anti-bullying pledges, +1,000 youth reached with anti-bullying workshops, and +40 youth trained and empowered through its ambassador program
• Engagements with national leaders and rallying the nation annually since 2019 to mark National AAPI Day Against Bullying and Hate 

Take the pledge and join the movement to stop AAPI bullying and hate. You can follow Act to Change and their work on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

Read about SAPHA’s commitment and support for ACT to Change.

South Asian Public Health Association Spotlight Series

Our Spotlight Series celebrates the remarkable careers and journeys of public health trailblazers within the South Asian community. In our sixth episode, we feature Dr. Amita N. Vyas, a tenured Professor at George Washington University and Co-Founder of the Global India Fund, whose career focuses on the health and well-being of women, children, and families worldwide.

Catch up on our fifth episode on Spotify or YouTube, and stay tuned for Dr. Vyas' spotlight next week!

Thank you for reading our newsletter!

Join SAPHA in our mission to advance health equity and well-being in the South Asian community. Your support fuels vital research, advocacy, and outreach initiatives addressing pressing public health challenges. Together, we can make a meaningful impact today.

Know someone who might enjoy these newsletters?

Ask them to sign up for our email list here.

VOLUME 3 | ISSUE 5

Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

May marks Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, a time to immerse ourselves in the rich tapestry of AANHPI cultures. Encompassing diverse heritages from across the Asian continent and Pacific Islands, this month serves as an opportunity to celebrate, learn, and reflect on our shared history. The White House Initiative on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders and Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center 2024 theme, "Bridging Histories, Shaping Our Future," emphasizes the interconnectedness of our past and present.

In this newsletter, we delve into the history of South Asian Americans (SAA) in the US, recognizing that understanding our past is crucial for shaping our future. From the earliest settlers from Punjab and Bengal integrating into communities across cities like New Orleans, Detroit, and New York, to overcoming legal discrimination and violence, SAA have made significant contributions in entrepreneurship, technology, and the arts. Political activism, especially post-9/11, has been instrumental in addressing racial and religious profiling.

As the South Asian American population continues to grow and diversify, it builds upon the legacies of its predecessors. Explore the South Asian American Digital Archive to uncover untold stories and deepen your understanding of SAA history.

Despite these achievements, SAA still faces persistent health inequities often overlooked by healthcare systems. With higher rates of heart disease, diabetes, and suicide compared to other groups, organizations like SAPHA are dedicated to promoting the health and well-being of South Asian communities through advocacy, collaboration, and communication.

Understanding South Asian American Mental Health Challenges

May marks mental health awareness month. Mental health is a complex issue often shrouded in silence and stigma within the community. Mental health discussions are often considered taboo or dismissed as non-issues. The direct and indirect pressure to maintain a facade of strength and success, along with adherence to traditional gender roles, exacerbates the silent crisis. This cultural norm can result in individuals suppressing emotions, leading to feelings of inadequacy, stress, and anxiety.

In addition to cultural expectations, South Asian Americans grapple with navigating their cultural identity, balancing assimilation and preservation, intergenerational conflicts, and trauma. Life stressors such as puberty, social circles, life transitions, relationships, financial struggles, and education-related stress further compound mental health challenges. Prevalence rates of diagnosed anxiety and mood disorders are higher among South Asian immigrants compared to all Asian Americans individuals, highlighting the magnitude of the issue.

The underutilization of mental health services is a significant barrier, with a considerable portion of the community not accessing necessary support. Religious followers often turn to prayer and counsel from religious leaders to cope with mental distress. While organizations strive to provide holistic mental health services tailored to the community's needs, addressing social interventions alongside traditional therapy is crucial. Destigmatizing mental health within the community is paramount to improving SAA mental health outcomes.

Research Highlights and Opportunities

Our Board Member , Dr. Mushira Khan, a senior researcher at the Mather Institute, focuses on healthcare access, caregiving dynamics, and health promotion interventions among ethnic minority older adults, particularly within immigrant South Asian families.

Dr. Khan's recent work sheds light on the challenges encountered by limited English-speaking South Asian seniors in accessing adequate healthcare. She examines how linguistic barriers, cognitive impairment, and cultural differences intersect, often resulting in adverse outcomes in their healthcare journey. Through real-life examples, the research underscores the significance of interpreter services, culturally appropriate materials, and healthcare providers' need for additional time and precautions to ensure equitable care for this demographic.Explore her research here!

In addition, Dr. Khan delves into the evolving landscape of aging among Asian Indian immigrants in America. Her research highlights how older adults are redefining aging by integrating traditional values with a more individualistic Western perspective. They engage in physical activities and spiritual pursuits while staying connected to their cultural heritage. Striving for independence from their children, they nevertheless maintain strong intergenerational bonds and pass on cultural wisdom and values. Scholars observe a shift towards a cosmic worldview and a graceful acceptance of death among older South Asian adults, underscoring the importance of leaving behind a legacy of cultural richness. Read more about this important research here.

The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute is offering a select number of scholarships for patients, caregivers and community-based organizations to attend the 2024 PCORI Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C., October. 22-23, 2024. 

The PCORI Annual Meeting is an immersive, two-day experience where innovation meets collaboration. Each year, clinicians, patients, caregivers and other members of the healthcare community meet to learn about the latest PCORI-funded research and research-related projects, network with like minded individuals and share in rich discussions to advance patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research. 

Scholarship recipients will receive financial support to cover all domestic travel and lodging expenses incurred by attending the 2024 PCORI Annual Meeting. They will also be able to participate in both the full Annual Meeting and the optional programming held on Oct. 21.  

Apply Now! The application deadline for the chance to receive complimentary housing and travel is June 17. Questions? Contact ambassadors@pcori.org.  

Books To Educate, Celebrate Asian American And Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Celebrating Asian Pacific American Heritage Month: 2024

Read about Chandra Chouhan, a University of Wisconsin–Madison student who founded "Chup! Go Vote," a nonpartisan organization dedicated to mobilizing South Asian voters and fostering community engagement through civic education initiatives.

Indian Americans now largest Asian American group in U.S.

Taz Ahmed explored the radical history and significant contributions of South Asians in Los Angeles, highlighting key historical moments, civic engagement, and resistance, culminating in the creation of an interactive map documenting these impactful narratives. Read the article here.

'Brown Girl Therapy' founder tackles South Asian mental health stigma in her new book, But What Will People Say?

Dr. Latha Palaniappan's Groundbreaking Work on Heart Health Disparities in Asian Americans - Explore how Dr. Palaniappan's personal loss drives her pioneering research at Stanford, uncovering critical differences in cardiovascular disease among underrepresented groups, particularly Asian Americans.

SAPHA's Statement on Student Encampments in Support of Palestine

SAPHA has been gravely concerned as we've observed an increase in violence & suppression against students participating in encampments for Palestine over the past few weeks. Our solidarity with those advocating for justice & human rights remains steadfast. Read our full statement on our website.

During AANHPI Heritage Month and Mental Health Awareness Month, SAPHA was prominently involved in several high-level discussions, reinforcing our commitment to advocating for South Asian health priorities. On April 23, Vice President Ayesha Azam represented SAPHA at the White House for the unveiling of the 2024 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention. The event featured keynotes from figures like US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy and advocates Ashley Judd and Aloe Blacc. Just a week later, Ayesha brought her insights to the “Diabetes & Cardiovascular Health Equity Data Dilemma” panel at the National Minority Quality Forum Leadership Summit, addressing significant data gaps in healthcare affecting our community. On May 6, SAPHA President Samira Khan engaged in a critical roundtable with HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra, discussing a spectrum of issues from mental health equity to language access and data disaggregation. Ayesha Azam continued our advocacy at a White House briefing for AANHPI leaders on May 10, discussing administrative priorities and community concerns with senior officials. Further emphasizing mental health, Samira participated as a panelist at the APAICS Legislative Leadership Summit, focusing the discussion on the need for dismantling linguistic barriers, enhancing cultural competency, and addressing mental health stigmas within the AA & NH/PI community. These engagements underscore SAPHA’s active role in shaping health policy and ensuring our community’s needs are prioritized at the federal level.

HHS Roundtable. Pictured Left to Right: Juliet Choi (APIAHF); Clayton Fong (NAPCA); Krystle Canare (NAAPIMHA); Marielle Reataza (NAPAFASA); Samira Khan (SAPHA); Nia Aitaoto (NAOPO); Sung Yeon Choimorrow (NAPAWF); Secretary Becerra (HHS); Rod Lew (APPEAL); Quyen Dinh (SEARAC); Sheri Daniels (POL); Gloria Lamela Beriones (PNAA) ; Karla Thomas (EPIC); Martina Kamaka (NCAPIP); Jeff Caballero (AAPCHO); Krystal Ka’ai (WHIAANHPI)

White House Briefing for AANHPI Leaders: Back row starting on left: Bob Sakaniwa (APIAVote), John Yang (AAJC), Sina Uipi (EPIC), Ayesha Azam (SAPHA), David Inoe (JACL), Adam Carbullido (AAPCHO) Front Row from left: TK Tran (BPSOS), Mai-Thy Tyler (NCAPA) Thu Nguyen (OCA), Krystle Canare (NAAPIMHA), Gabby DeBelen (API-GVP)

Organizational Spotlight

With May being Mental Health Awareness Month, we want to feature the National Asian American Pacific Islander Mental Health Association (NAAPIMHA). NAAPIMHA promotes the mental health and well-being of AANHPI communities with a particular focus on youth. NAAPIMHA is involved in suicide prevention, centering individuals with lived experience and improving access to high quality and affordable mental health services that account for both culture and language. NAAPIMHA’s highlights include: 

• Nearly 60 organizations trained in its Achieving Whole Health Program
• Presenting the first-ever resolution to congress introducing May 10 as National AANHPI Mental Health Day in 2021 and having 31 new cities and states submit proclamations in 2023.
• Hosting the National AANHPI Providers Directory including more than 150 identified AANHPI-serving behavioral health providers
• Establishing 20 county and region-wide mental health interpreter training sites

You can follow NAAPIMHA and their work on X (formerly Twitter),  Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

South Asian Public Health Association Spotlight Series

Our Spotlight Series shines a light on the extraordinary careers and paths of public health trailblazers, with a focus on the South Asian community. In our forthcoming fifth episode, we highlight  Kalpana Bhandarkar, an accomplished leader in healthcare and civic engagement. 

Check our fourth episode on Spotify or YouTube and don't miss Ms. Bhandarkar’s feature coming up next week!

Thanks for checking out SAPHA!

Join SAPHA in our mission to promote health equity and well-being in the South Asian community. Your support drives essential research, advocacy, and outreach initiatives addressing urgent public health issues. Together, let's create a significant impact today.

Know someone who might enjoy these newsletters?

Ask them to sign up for our email list here.

VOLUME 3 | ISSUE 5

Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

May marks Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, a time to immerse ourselves in the rich tapestry of AANHPI cultures. Encompassing diverse heritages from across the Asian continent and Pacific Islands, this month serves as an opportunity to celebrate, learn, and reflect on our shared history. The White House Initiative on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders and Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center 2024 theme, "Bridging Histories, Shaping Our Future," emphasizes the interconnectedness of our past and present.

In this newsletter, we delve into the history of South Asian Americans (SAA) in the US, recognizing that understanding our past is crucial for shaping our future. From the earliest settlers from Punjab and Bengal integrating into communities across cities like New Orleans, Detroit, and New York, to overcoming legal discrimination and violence, SAA have made significant contributions in entrepreneurship, technology, and the arts. Political activism, especially post-9/11, has been instrumental in addressing racial and religious profiling.

As the South Asian American population continues to grow and diversify, it builds upon the legacies of its predecessors. Explore the South Asian American Digital Archive to uncover untold stories and deepen your understanding of SAA history.

Despite these achievements, SAA still faces persistent health inequities often overlooked by healthcare systems. With higher rates of heart disease, diabetes, and suicide compared to other groups, organizations like SAPHA are dedicated to promoting the health and well-being of South Asian communities through advocacy, collaboration, and communication.

Understanding South Asian American Mental Health Challenges

May marks mental health awareness month. Mental health is a complex issue often shrouded in silence and stigma within the community. Mental health discussions are often considered taboo or dismissed as non-issues. The direct and indirect pressure to maintain a facade of strength and success, along with adherence to traditional gender roles, exacerbates the silent crisis. This cultural norm can result in individuals suppressing emotions, leading to feelings of inadequacy, stress, and anxiety.

In addition to cultural expectations, South Asian Americans grapple with navigating their cultural identity, balancing assimilation and preservation, intergenerational conflicts, and trauma. Life stressors such as puberty, social circles, life transitions, relationships, financial struggles, and education-related stress further compound mental health challenges. Prevalence rates of diagnosed anxiety and mood disorders are higher among South Asian immigrants compared to all Asian Americans individuals, highlighting the magnitude of the issue.

The underutilization of mental health services is a significant barrier, with a considerable portion of the community not accessing necessary support. Religious followers often turn to prayer and counsel from religious leaders to cope with mental distress. While organizations strive to provide holistic mental health services tailored to the community's needs, addressing social interventions alongside traditional therapy is crucial. Destigmatizing mental health within the community is paramount to improving SAA mental health outcomes.

Research Highlights and Opportunities

Our Board Member , Dr. Mushira Khan, a senior researcher at the Mather Institute, focuses on healthcare access, caregiving dynamics, and health promotion interventions among ethnic minority older adults, particularly within immigrant South Asian families.

Dr. Khan's recent work sheds light on the challenges encountered by limited English-speaking South Asian seniors in accessing adequate healthcare. She examines how linguistic barriers, cognitive impairment, and cultural differences intersect, often resulting in adverse outcomes in their healthcare journey. Through real-life examples, the research underscores the significance of interpreter services, culturally appropriate materials, and healthcare providers' need for additional time and precautions to ensure equitable care for this demographic.Explore her research here!

In addition, Dr. Khan delves into the evolving landscape of aging among Asian Indian immigrants in America. Her research highlights how older adults are redefining aging by integrating traditional values with a more individualistic Western perspective. They engage in physical activities and spiritual pursuits while staying connected to their cultural heritage. Striving for independence from their children, they nevertheless maintain strong intergenerational bonds and pass on cultural wisdom and values. Scholars observe a shift towards a cosmic worldview and a graceful acceptance of death among older South Asian adults, underscoring the importance of leaving behind a legacy of cultural richness. Read more about this important research here.

The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute is offering a select number of scholarships for patients, caregivers and community-based organizations to attend the 2024 PCORI Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C., October. 22-23, 2024. 

The PCORI Annual Meeting is an immersive, two-day experience where innovation meets collaboration. Each year, clinicians, patients, caregivers and other members of the healthcare community meet to learn about the latest PCORI-funded research and research-related projects, network with like minded individuals and share in rich discussions to advance patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research. 

Scholarship recipients will receive financial support to cover all domestic travel and lodging expenses incurred by attending the 2024 PCORI Annual Meeting. They will also be able to participate in both the full Annual Meeting and the optional programming held on Oct. 21.  

Apply Now! The application deadline for the chance to receive complimentary housing and travel is June 17. Questions? Contact ambassadors@pcori.org.  

Books To Educate, Celebrate Asian American And Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Celebrating Asian Pacific American Heritage Month: 2024

Read about Chandra Chouhan, a University of Wisconsin–Madison student who founded "Chup! Go Vote," a nonpartisan organization dedicated to mobilizing South Asian voters and fostering community engagement through civic education initiatives.

Indian Americans now largest Asian American group in U.S.

Taz Ahmed explored the radical history and significant contributions of South Asians in Los Angeles, highlighting key historical moments, civic engagement, and resistance, culminating in the creation of an interactive map documenting these impactful narratives. Read the article here.

'Brown Girl Therapy' founder tackles South Asian mental health stigma in her new book, But What Will People Say?

Dr. Latha Palaniappan's Groundbreaking Work on Heart Health Disparities in Asian Americans - Explore how Dr. Palaniappan's personal loss drives her pioneering research at Stanford, uncovering critical differences in cardiovascular disease among underrepresented groups, particularly Asian Americans.

SAPHA's Statement on Student Encampments in Support of Palestine

SAPHA has been gravely concerned as we've observed an increase in violence & suppression against students participating in encampments for Palestine over the past few weeks. Our solidarity with those advocating for justice & human rights remains steadfast. Read our full statement on our website.

During AANHPI Heritage Month and Mental Health Awareness Month, SAPHA was prominently involved in several high-level discussions, reinforcing our commitment to advocating for South Asian health priorities. On April 23, Vice President Ayesha Azam represented SAPHA at the White House for the unveiling of the 2024 National Strategy for Suicide Prevention. The event featured keynotes from figures like US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy and advocates Ashley Judd and Aloe Blacc. Just a week later, Ayesha brought her insights to the “Diabetes & Cardiovascular Health Equity Data Dilemma” panel at the National Minority Quality Forum Leadership Summit, addressing significant data gaps in healthcare affecting our community. On May 6, SAPHA President Samira Khan engaged in a critical roundtable with HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra, discussing a spectrum of issues from mental health equity to language access and data disaggregation. Ayesha Azam continued our advocacy at a White House briefing for AANHPI leaders on May 10, discussing administrative priorities and community concerns with senior officials. Further emphasizing mental health, Samira participated as a panelist at the APAICS Legislative Leadership Summit, focusing the discussion on the need for dismantling linguistic barriers, enhancing cultural competency, and addressing mental health stigmas within the AA & NH/PI community. These engagements underscore SAPHA’s active role in shaping health policy and ensuring our community’s needs are prioritized at the federal level.

HHS Roundtable. Pictured Left to Right: Juliet Choi (APIAHF); Clayton Fong (NAPCA); Krystle Canare (NAAPIMHA); Marielle Reataza (NAPAFASA); Samira Khan (SAPHA); Nia Aitaoto (NAOPO); Sung Yeon Choimorrow (NAPAWF); Secretary Becerra (HHS); Rod Lew (APPEAL); Quyen Dinh (SEARAC); Sheri Daniels (POL); Gloria Lamela Beriones (PNAA) ; Karla Thomas (EPIC); Martina Kamaka (NCAPIP); Jeff Caballero (AAPCHO); Krystal Ka’ai (WHIAANHPI)

White House Briefing for AANHPI Leaders: Back row starting on left: Bob Sakaniwa (APIAVote), John Yang (AAJC), Sina Uipi (EPIC), Ayesha Azam (SAPHA), David Inoe (JACL), Adam Carbullido (AAPCHO) Front Row from left: TK Tran (BPSOS), Mai-Thy Tyler (NCAPA) Thu Nguyen (OCA), Krystle Canare (NAAPIMHA), Gabby DeBelen (API-GVP)

Organizational Spotlight

With May being Mental Health Awareness Month, we want to feature the National Asian American Pacific Islander Mental Health Association (NAAPIMHA). NAAPIMHA promotes the mental health and well-being of AANHPI communities with a particular focus on youth. NAAPIMHA is involved in suicide prevention, centering individuals with lived experience and improving access to high quality and affordable mental health services that account for both culture and language. NAAPIMHA’s highlights include: 

• Nearly 60 organizations trained in its Achieving Whole Health Program
• Presenting the first-ever resolution to congress introducing May 10 as National AANHPI Mental Health Day in 2021 and having 31 new cities and states submit proclamations in 2023.
• Hosting the National AANHPI Providers Directory including more than 150 identified AANHPI-serving behavioral health providers
• Establishing 20 county and region-wide mental health interpreter training sites

You can follow NAAPIMHA and their work on X (formerly Twitter),  Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

South Asian Public Health Association Spotlight Series

Our Spotlight Series shines a light on the extraordinary careers and paths of public health trailblazers, with a focus on the South Asian community. In our forthcoming fifth episode, we highlight  Kalpana Bhandarkar, an accomplished leader in healthcare and civic engagement. 

Check our fourth episode on Spotify or YouTube and don't miss Ms. Bhandarkar’s feature coming up next week!

Thanks for checking out SAPHA!

Join SAPHA in our mission to promote health equity and well-being in the South Asian community. Your support drives essential research, advocacy, and outreach initiatives addressing urgent public health issues. Together, let's create a significant impact today.

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SEASON 1 | EPISODE 4

South Asian Public Health Association Spotlight Series

SAPHA expands its podcast offerings with our latest release! Introducing Episode 4 of the South Asian Public Health Association Spotlight Series, where we explore the exceptional careers and journeys of public health pioneers, focusing on the South Asian community.

In commemoration of the 25th anniversary of the South Asian Public Health Association, each episode promises enlightening discussions, motivational narratives, and an intimate exploration of the impactful contributions made by former SAPHA board members, shaping the landscape of public health.

Episode 4

Sharmila Rao Thakkar, MPH, MPA, CAP^®

Our fourth episode features the esteemed Sharmila Rao Thakkar, an accomplished nonprofit and philanthropic advisor specializing in leadership development, program implementation, and resource development. With a background in health communications and public health, she has transitioned into a multifaceted role focused on fostering equity, social impact, and leadership within communities. Sharmila's dedication to public health and social impact is underscored by her leadership in crisis preparedness, community engagement, and collaborative partnerships, making her a respected thought leader in the nonprofit sector. Sharmila is also one of the co-founders and founding board members of SAPHA, where her contributions to SAPHA have been invaluable.

Listen to us on Youtube!

Listen to us on Spotify!

Learn more about Ms. Thakkar below:

Sharmila Rao Thakkar, a seasoned philanthropy and nonprofit consultant based in New York City, brings over 25 years of experience to her work. She specializes in advising philanthropic leaders on strategic resource deployment, emphasizing alignment with values and interests. Holding the Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy® (CAP®) designation, Sharmila's expertise spans leadership development, program implementation, and equity & inclusion initiatives.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Sharmila demonstrated her leadership as the executive director of the Staten Island Not for Profit Association, overseeing strategic direction, resource allocation, and partnership development to strengthen the nonprofit sector's response. Her background includes serving as the first non-family executive director of the Siragusa Family Foundation in Chicago, where she led operational and grantmaking efforts, fostering board professionalism and next-generation engagement.

As a consultant, Sharmila facilitates board development programs, guides leadership transitions, and advises on operational and programmatic enhancements. Recent projects include training on nonprofit governance, facilitating racial equity initiatives, and advising donors/foundations on strategic shifts and COVID-19 response efforts with an equity lens. Her commitment to social justice is evident through her involvement in DEI training programs and board service for various nonprofits.

Holding a Master of Public Health from Columbia University and a Master of Public Administration from the Columbia University School of International & Public Affairs, her academic background complements her extensive practical knowledge. Additionally, she holds a BA in International Relations from Brown University.

Listen to us on Youtube!

Listen to us on Spotify!

Thanks for your interest in SAPHA!

We are always seeking innovative ways to improve the health and well-being of our diverse South Asian communities. Through advocacy, education, and fostering meaningful community partnerships, we are dedicated to making a positive impact! Learn more about our mission or contribute to our cause by visiting sapha.org!

If you enjoyed this podcast and would like to support our efforts in creating engaging content, please consider making a donation.

Subscribe to SAPHA’s Spotlight Series to hear more captivating discussions with trailblazers in public health.



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VOLUME 3 | ISSUE 4

Public Health for South Asian Americans

Last week marked National Public Health Week in the US, where organizations, including SAPHA, highlighted critical public health issues such as civic engagement, healthy neighborhoods, climate change, new tools and innovations, reproductive and sexual health, emergency preparedness, and the future of public health. You can check out the posts on our social media platforms.

Additionally, over the past year, our board conducted a thorough review of research within the South Asian American (SAA) population and the South Asian Diaspora. Despite the significant presence of multiple focused organizations, SAAs remain among the most understudied groups, disproportionately impacted by preventable diseases.

We plan to publish our findings in a report later this year, which will shine light on the health disparities experienced by SAAs, the influence of social determinants of health (SDOH), and provide research and policy recommendations.

Notably, national databases often fail to capture a representative sample of SAAs, limiting data on crucial health conditions like cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, mental health, infectious diseases, and cancer. To bridge this gap, researchers are initiating studies tailored for the SAA population, such as the OurHealth Study and the Rutgers-led South Asian Diet Study. However, there's still a pressing need for more research with underrepresented groups like Indo-Caribbeans.

We at SAPHA are dedicated to uplifting work that addresses these health disparities amongst SAAs, especially in the areas of cardiovascular diseases, mental health, and social determinants of health.

By advocating for more research and tailored interventions, SAPHA aims to reduce health inequities and address the unique needs of the SAA community. You can help support our goal participating in the previously mentioned study and reaching out to us to share your work!

Indian American Impact 2024 Summit & Gala

We are thrilled to share that Indian American Impact's 2024 Summit & Gala: Desis Decide will take place on May 15-16 in Washington, D.C.!

This isn't just another gathering; it's a rallying cry for Indian and South Asian Americans to recognize the pivotal role we play in shaping the political landscape of our nation. In the upcoming 2024 election, our community has the potential to be the margin of victory, influencing outcomes and determining who represents us on the national stage. 

Don’t miss it — RSVP today at iaimpact.org/summit!

Seizing the Moment: Environmental Action for South Asian Americans

As we approach Earth Day on April 22, it's essential to reflect on our collective responsibility towards environmental protection, particularly as South Asians. Throughout history, Asians and those within the Asian diaspora have been at the forefront of the environmental justice movement. Our home countries in South Asia face some of the most severe impacts of climate change, including intensified heat waves, cyclones, droughts, and floods. With our rich landscapes of mangrove forests, coral reefs, and diverse ecosystems, these environmental challenges hit close to home. With an increase in environmental disasters, the urgency for action is palpable.

However, as South Asian Americans, we face another layer of concern, considering the United States' historical role as the largest emitter of greenhouse gasses. This reality poses significant risks to sea levels, extreme weather events, and overall climate stability, impacting both our homeland and adopted country.

In response to these challenges, SAPHA has taken proactive steps by participating in the Climate Health Organizing Fellows Program. This educational initiative aims to empower health professionals to develop and advocate for climate solutions. Through this program, our team, "Desis for Environmental Safety Interventions (DESI)," consisting of President Samira Khan, Communications Co-chair Thoin Begum, and Research Co-chair Anto Paul, is working towards establishing a South Asian Climate Health Justice coalition. Our goal is to advocate for health equity and justice within the South Asian community.

This initiative is especially crucial as many South Asian ethnic enclaves across the United States, such as those in Jackson Heights, Queens, face environmental challenges such as limited green spaces and high air pollution. Through interviews conducted with South Asians in Queens, New York, the DESI team discovered that many individuals do not connect their living environments with their health outcomes, while others feel they lack the time to address environmental concerns.

In response, SAPHA is collaborating with community and faith-based organizations to identify and address the environmental and health priorities of South Asian Americans. We invite you to join our efforts by becoming part of our working group, as we strive to create healthier living and working environments for all South Asians. 

Now is the time for South Asian Americans to unite in the fight for environmental justice, ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.

Casteism in the US

Casteism, characterized by actions or structures that aim to constrain, impede, or categorize individuals based on their perceived caste, predominantly traces its roots to India. Its impact on public health is profound, fostering social exclusion and perpetuating health disparities among marginalized groups, notably the Dalit community, which comprises those formerly labeled as "untouchables" or "Scheduled Castes." April marks Dalit History Month, a period dedicated to spotlighting the history, culture, and contributions of Dalits, fostering awareness about their struggles, achievements, and resilience, while also combating caste-based discrimination and advocating for social justice and equality.

However, casteism transcends borders, emerging as a global issue that affects marginalized communities worldwide, including within the United States. Here, casteism mirrors racism, contributing to disparities and marginalization, particularly among Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) populations, whose experiences are often sidelined, resulting in substandard palliative care and inadequate pain management. Within the US healthcare system, entrenched structural inequities further compound disparities in access to care, posing a pressing concern for South Asians who are frequently overlooked due to the pervasive model minority myth.

Casteism's influence extends beyond India to South Asia and its diaspora, shaping attitudes within public health systems and perpetuating inequalities in healthcare access and treatment based on perceived social hierarchies. In the US, manifestations of casteism and social segregation manifest in disparities in end-of-life care, lower rates of hospice utilization, and the neglect of complementary and alternative medicine practices favored by specific cultural and ethnic groups.

Although the specific expressions of casteism may vary across regions, such as social segregation in countries with religious or cultural majorities like Bangladesh, the underlying issues of marginalization, discrimination, and inequitable healthcare access remain pervasive across contexts.

In March 2023, Equality Labs initiated a groundbreaking campaign for SB-403, a bill introduced by Senator Aisha Wahab to ban caste-based discrimination in California. Despite Governor Gavin Newsom's veto, the bill's journey through the legislature marks a crucial step in addressing caste-based discrimination in the US.

Research Opportunities

A Proclamation on National Public Health Week, 2024

Meet 13 Asian and Asian Diasporic Nature and Environment Writers

Find something to do this Earth Day

SAPHA mourns the life of 19-year old Bangladeshi youth, Win Rozario, who was killed by the New York City Police Department (NYPD). Read our complete statement on our website.

The recent update of Statistical Policy Directive No.15 (SPD-15) by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) marks a significant shift in how federal agencies handle race and ethnicity data, the first update since 1997. Read about it on our website.

Last month, SAPHA hosted a virtual Town Hall in partnership with the OurHealth Study team to discuss cardiovascular health and the need for additional research amongst South Asians. You can catch the full event on youtube. Additionally, our town hall was featured in NRI Pulse, you can read the article on their website. Finally, for more information on the OurHealth study and to enroll, check out their website.

Organizational Spotlight

Equality Labs is a transnational South Asian feminist organization working to end caste apartheid, gender-based violence, Islamophobia, white supremacy and religious intolerance. Co-founded in 2015 by Dalit artist and activist Thenmozhi Soundararajan to address the global need for healing and reconciliation from the trauma of caste, the organization has made numerous impacts in the areas of civil rights, digital security, and leadership development. Examples include conducting the first ever U.S. survey on caste in the diaspora, providing leadership training to over 350 organizations and companies, and the addition of caste protections at many institutions including all 23 California State University campuses. You can also check out their podcast series “Caste in the USA” hosted on all forums. 

Follow Equality Labs and their work on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, YouTube and Facebook. 

South Asian Public Health Association Spotlight Series

Our Spotlight Series delves into the remarkable careers and journeys of public health pioneers, with a special emphasis on the South Asian community. In our upcoming fourth episode, we feature Sharmila Rao Thakkar, an independent nonprofit and philanthropic advisor and consultant based in NYC.

Check out our third episode on Spotify or YouTube and stay tuned for Ms. Thakkar’s feature next week!

Thanks for checking out SAPHA!

Support SAPHA as we work towards advancing health equity and well-being within the South Asian community. Your contribution fuels vital research, advocacy, and outreach efforts aimed at tackling pressing public health challenges. Join us in making a meaningful difference today.

Know someone who might enjoy these newsletters?

Ask them to sign up for our email list here.