VOLUME 3 | ISSUE 12

As we close out 2024, SAPHA reflects on a year of progress, resilience, and community-driven impact. This year, we have continued our mission to advance public health within South Asian communities through advocacy, education, and collaboration. From tackling health disparities to empowering the next generation of public health leaders, we have witnessed meaningful strides toward creating a healthier, more equitable future for all.

In this final edition of the year, we celebrate our achievements, highlight ongoing initiatives, and look ahead to the opportunities and challenges that 2025 will bring. As we work together to address the unique health needs of South Asian populations, we remain committed to driving transformative change, fostering partnerships, and building a stronger, more inclusive public health infrastructure.

Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to another year of collective progress in advancing health equity for South Asians across the globe.



— The SAPHA Team

Franklin Fires

The Franklin Fire in Malibu has threatened homes and natural areas in the Malibu region of California. Driven by dry conditions and strong winds, the fire caused evacuations, damaged properties, and placed pressure on firefighting resources. Efforts to contain the blaze have involved coordinated responses from local, state, and federal agencies. Community members have been displaced, and recovery efforts are underway as the area works to rebuild and address the environmental impact of the fire.

Wildfire smoke is the cause of 11,000 deaths across the United States every year.

To our Malibu Community:

Our hearts are with you during this difficult time as the Franklin fires continue to impact lives and homes. Please know that we are thinking of you and prioritizing your safety, well-being, and the challenges you may be facing. 💟

Stress Management Tips for the Holiday Season

Organization Spotlight: South Asian SOAR

South Asian SOAR was established in 2021 to address the alarming issue of gender-based violence (GBV), with 48% of South Asian men and women reporting experiencing at least one form of it.

 The COVID-19 pandemic, racial protests, and increasing anti-Asian hate in 2020 heightened these challenges, prompting grassroots advocates and leaders to unite. With a shared commitment to innovation and collective action, these leaders aimed to strengthen collaboration and respond to the urgent needs of survivors through unified, life-saving support services.

In 2022, SOAR launched the "Their Light Remains" series to provide the community with a space to honor and remember lives lost to gender-based violence (GBV). This series was created as a means to acknowledge and process the profound grief and losses experienced during a time marked by global crises impacting communities worldwide.

✅ Check out the 2024 Their Light Remains Series here

Recent Publications

Psychiatric Healthcare Experiences of South Asian Patients with Severe Mental Illness Diagnoses and Their Families in New York City:

A Qualitative Study

The study, “Psychiatric Healthcare Experiences of South Asian Patients with Severe Mental Illness Diagnoses and Their Families in New York City: A Qualitative Study”, explored the psychiatric healthcare experiences of South Asian (SA) individuals with severe mental illness (SMI) in New York City through semi-structured interviews with 36 participants, including patients, family members, and clinicians.

 Findings revealed that limited mental health knowledge and a low perceived need for help contributed to delayed care. Factors such as accessibility, language resources, patient-provider relationships, and family involvement influenced experiences with mental health services. Additionally, prescribed medications, self-motivation, communication, and religious practices were identified as helpful in managing symptoms and supporting recovery. 

The study underscores the importance of improving mental health service access and providing culturally sensitive mental health education for SA communities.

✅ Click here to check out the study feature on NBC4 Los Angeles

Exploring the Relationship Between Birth Weight and Diabetes Among South Asian-American Women

Excited to share the latest collaborative research at GW's Milken Institute School of Public Health, published in the European Society of Medicine: Medical Research Archives!  

The study, "Exploring the Relationship Between Birth Weight and Diabetes Among South Asian-American Women," is a joint effort with Public Health/Physician Assistant student Anisa Amiji, Dr. Nitasha Nagaraj, and

Dr. Amita Vyas.

Key findings include:

--> South Asian-American women born with very low birth weight (VLBW) are 6.54 times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes.

--> Those born with low birth weight (LBW) have 4.25 times higher odds of developing type 2 diabetes.

--> VLBW and LBW also significantly increase the odds of gestational diabetes (2.59x and 2.5x, respectively).

These results highlight the critical importance of culturally relevant diabetes prevention strategies tailored to South Asian-American women. By addressing unique risk factors, we aim to advance health equity and promote inclusive care.

✅ Check out the full article here:  https://esmed.org/MRA/mra/article/view/5907/99193548550

Opportunity: Get Involved with SAPHA!

As a growing organization dedicated to improving public health outcomes and addressing health disparities within the South Asian community, we are always seeking passionate and committed individuals to help lead and guide our efforts. 

We are looking for individuals with diverse skills and experiences, including but not limited to:



• Expertise in public health, healthcare policy, or health disparities.
• Leadership or board experience with nonprofit organizations.
• A commitment to advancing equity and health access for underserved communities.
• A passion for making a positive impact in the South Asian community.

How to Apply

✅ If you are interested in learning more and joining us,

complete the interest form here.

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