This month, we’re celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month! A time to recognize the diverse cultures, rich histories, and meaningful contributions of AAPI communities across the country. From food and film to public health and policy, AAPI voices have helped shape the world we live in today and continue to inspire change every day. We encourage you to read the South Asian Coalition’s community explainer on the first 100 days of the new administration and how the policies and priorities impact South Asian communities.
Throughout May, we’ll be sharing stories, events, and resources that highlight AAPI heritage and uplift the voices making a difference. Whether you’re learning something new or honoring your own roots, we hope this month sparks connection, reflection, and celebration. And speaking of celebration…
🎓 Congratulations, Class of 2025! 🎉
We want to give a big shoutout to all of the graduates this month! From high school, to undergrad, to post-grad, to clinical graduates - Congratulations! We’re so proud of everything you’ve accomplished and wish you the best of luck in your next chapter. We look forward to being a continued resource and community for you as you move forward in your careers.
We’d love to celebrate with you—tag us in your graduation posts or share your accomplishments with us so we can highlight your success in our community!
Let’s dive in!
SAPHA Gala and Conference
We want to hear from you! What do you want to see at the first
In honor of AAPI Heritage Month, SAPHA is proud to celebrate South Asian public health professionals who are making an impact across the country. From conducting vital research to leading teams and driving change in their communities, these individuals exemplify excellence in public health.
Follow us on social media throughout the month as we spotlight their inspiring work and contributions.
How does economic justice shape the health of South Asian communities?
Join usfor The Hidden Costs of the Model Minority Myth: Advocating for Economic Justice in South Asian Communities, a powerful conversation on the ties between opportunity, income, and wellbeing.
Sydelle Barreto is a dedicated and creative policy and advocacy professional who is committed to moving the needle a little closer to collective liberation each and every day. Sydelle began her career in education policy, where they worked on issues such as diversifying the educator pipeline and fighting for a thriving wage for child care workers.
Prior to joining NAPAWF, they served as the Assistant Director of Federal Policy at SIECUS: Sex Ed for Social Change, where they championed inclusive and evidence-based sex education. Sydelle is deeply passionate about fighting for a world where the marginalized are affirmed in their identities and have the power, information, and resources to make decisions about their own health, pleasure and wholeness. Sydelle is a proud 1.5 generation Indian American who was born in Mumbai and raised in New Jersey. They received a B.A. in Political Science and Economics from Northeastern University and an M.A. in Philosophy and Social Policy from George Washington University.
Educate to Empower (E2E) is a nonprofit initiative dedicated to improving breast cancer screening awareness and access across Philadelphia. E2E recognizes that too many women face barriers to breast cancer screening and follow-up care, whether due to lack of information, financial constraints, or cultural and language barriers.
E2E strives to change that by bringing breast health education, screening opportunities, and personalized support directly into the community. E2E offers a variety of programming options of varying length to meet the needs of your community including on-site mammogram registrations, risk assessments, interactive education sessions, and even empowerment and wellness workshops for teens and young women.
🚨New Publication: Nature, prevalence and determinants of mental health problems experienced by adolescents in south Asia: a systematic review
A recent systematic review published in The Lancet Regional Health – Southeast Asia examined the nature, prevalence, and determinants of mental health problems (MHPs) among adolescents in South Asia, encompassing Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. The review included 117 studies, with 87 being school-based, and highlighted significant variability in the prevalence of MHPs across the region.
The review underscores the high prevalence of MHPs among South Asian adolescents and the multifaceted determinants influencing mental health. It highlights the need for culturally appropriate mental health policies and programs that address these social determinants and fill existing evidence gaps.
If you are interested in South Asian cardiovascular disparities, this is a must see.
In an effort to disseminate what the medical/public health community has learned to a lay audience, Drs. Nirmal and Renu Joshi tell their own story and those of many other South Asian men and women from around the world.
Dr. and Dr.Joshi interviewed several public health/medical/scientific professionals from India, Pakistan, the UK, and the US on this journey. They showcase the newest evidence, including several results from the MASALA Study, answering the “Why” and “How” questions in an engaging and thought-provoking way.
The end result is a 2 hour docudrama called The Brown Heart.
The Brown Heart is now streaming on JioHotstar in India.
Want to know what the buzz is about? Check out this review from the Times of India: Read the review to see what critics are saying.
Welcome to our April Newsletter! With Eid recently celebrated and the New Year observed across many parts of South Asia, we embrace the season of renewal and growth. As spring blooms across the U.S., we’re also witnessing shifts in government policies that impact public health. In this edition, we reflect on those committed to public health and the opportunities they bring, while staying committed to advocating for better health outcomes for our communities.
We’re excited toshare evidence of how South Asians are driving positive changeacross various spaces, from grassroots initiatives to impactful work in key public health areas affecting South Asian populations. Join us as we highlight the continued efforts to improve health outcomes and strengthen our communities.
Save the Date!
🎉 Two South Asian–Centered Events at APHA 2025! 🎉
Join us as we come together to celebrate, connect, and shape the future of South Asian public health!
📣 Don’t miss this powerful double feature!
🌟 Formal invitations and registration details coming soon.🌟
Recap! From Awareness to Action: Advancing Cancer Prevention in South Asian Communities
On April 9, 2025, SAPHA hosted a panel discussion titled “From Awareness to Action: Advancing Cancer Prevention in South Asian Communities.” This event, held during Cancer Control Month and National Public Health Week, brought together experts to address cancer disparities affecting South Asian populations.
Panelists explored the prevalence of certain cancers—such as oral cavity, thyroid, and uterine cancers—in South Asian communities, and examined factors contributing to low screening and vaccination rates. They emphasized the need for culturally tailored interventions, community engagement, and education programs that address social determinants of health and mental health support.
🗣️ Nominate a Public Health Researcher for SAPHA's AAPI Heritage Month Spotlight!
🌟In honor of AAPI Heritage Month in May 2025, the SAPHA Research Committee aims to spotlight and elevate the research workand efforts of master's and doctoral students, as well as early career faculty and professionals, who are conducting public health-related research within South Asian communities.
We will feature selected researchers on our SAPHA social media channels, providing valuable visibility for your work within the public health community.
SAPHA wants to feature you and your research for this initiative if you fit the above criteria!
Our Caste-Based Discrimination Toolkit is almost here, and we're putting the finishing touches on it for an official release at the end of this month!
Stay tuned for this essential resource to help raise awareness and drive change. Once it's live, you'll be able to find it on our website—ready to empower your advocacy efforts.
👀 Keep an eye out!
Organization Spotlight: India Home
India Homeis a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for South Asian and Indo-Caribbean immigrant older adults in New York City through culturally competent services that foster community, dignity, and joy.
Since 2007, India Home has empowered seniors across five centers with programs that include congregate and home-delivered meals, creative aging, health and wellness activities, case management, dementia respite care, housing, and advocacy. From garba and yoga classes to trips, language support, and civic engagement, India Home celebrates the vibrant diversity of immigrant elder experiences while tackling the challenges of aging with compassion and culturally rooted care. SAPHA recently partnered with India Home to recruit participants for the
UCLA Health has launched a new South Asian Heart Program to address the higher risk of heart disease within this community. With South Asians being three to four times more likely to develop heart conditions at a younger age, this program offers tailored care, early diagnosis, and culturally sensitive treatment.
The initiative aims to reduce cardiovascular risks through proactive, personalized health education and expert clinical care, ensuring a long-term approach to heart health in this high-risk group.
In a heartfelt reflection, Shivani Mishra explores lessons on longevity, loss, and legacy from her late grandfather, Dr. Musafir Mishra. His life of service and sustainability offers profound insights into aging well—not just through diet or genes, but through meaningful connections, community, and purposeful living.
Mishra emphasizes the importance of caregiving as a shared responsibility and the wisdom our elders pass down through lived experiences. As we face a growing aging population, this piece challenges us to rethink how we care for the elderly and the invaluable lessons they offer.
"Flood Sensor Aunty," a playful yet poignant theater production by Sabina Sethi Unni, uses humor, Bollywood dance, and a quirky flood sensor character to tackle the serious topic of flood preparedness. Set against the backdrop of New York’s South Asian community, the play creatively addresses the intersection of disaster response, housing inequalities,
and racial justice.
With free outdoor performances across Manhattan this April, it's a unique and accessible way to engage diverse audiences on the importance of disaster preparedness in an increasingly flood-prone world.
How does economic justice shape the health of South Asian communities?
Join us
for
Let’s Talk Justice: Creating Strong Economic Futures for South Asians, a powerful conversation on the ties between opportunity, income, and wellbeing. Hear from Sydelle Barreto from National Asian Pacific American Women's Forum (NAPAWF) as she shares insights and strategies for change.
📅 Date & Time:
• 5/29 at 5:30pm ET
• 5/29 at 4:30pm CT
• 5/29 at 3:30pm PT
Sydelle Barreto is a dedicated and creative policy and advocacy professional who is committed to moving the needle a little closer to collective liberation each and every day. Sydelle began her career in education policy, where they worked on issues such as diversifying the educator pipeline and fighting for a thriving wage for child care workers.
Prior to joining NAPAWF, they served as the Assistant Director of Federal Policy at SIECUS: Sex Ed for Social Change, where they championed inclusive and evidence-based sex education. Sydelle is deeply passionate about fighting for a world where the marginalized are affirmed in their identities and have the power, information, and resources to make decisions about their own health, pleasure and wholeness.
Sydelle is a proud 1.5 generation Indian American who was born in Mumbai and raised in New Jersey. They received a B.A. in Political Science and Economics from Northeastern University and an M.A. in Philosophy and Social Policy from George Washington University.
As we step into March, a month that celebrates both Women's History and Public Health, we continue our commitment to raising awareness about health challenges facing South Asian communities.
This month, we focus on equipping individuals with knowledge and resources to address pressing issues such as South Asian human rights, reproductive health, and events that SAPHA is involved in ensuring South Asian voices are included in public health discussions.
With a range of new research, events, and initiatives, let's continue to stay informed, advocate for change, and prioritize wellness in our communities.
In honor of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, learn more about the importance of early detection and prevention in the South Asian community through our dedicated Colorectal Cancer Awareness post.
Additionally, be sure to explore the South Asian Research Hub’s
March is also Endometriosis Awareness Month. Explore resources, stories, and insights on this often-overlooked condition in our Endometriosis Awareness post.
Stay connected, stay involved, and let's build a healthier future for all.
🆕 New on SAPHA.org: Disaggregating Diversity
🧠 As many of you know, Asian Americans are often grouped together as a racial category in health-related research, despite “Asian American” encompassing dozens of different ethnic groups. Without disaggregated data, unique health risks go unnoticed, leading to inadequate healthcare policies, misinformed research, and disparities in treatment.
📊 By breaking down data by ethnicity, researchers and policymakers can better identify health inequities, develop targeted interventions, and ensure all South Asian communities receive the care and resources they need.
🙌🏽 In an effort to begin to fill the gap in data, SAPHA has compiled a working list of health outcomes datasets disaggregated to varying degrees of specificity in regard to ethnicity.
Recap: CEAL Community Health Advisory Council Kickoff Meeting
As part of NIH’s Community Engagement Alliance (CEAL) grant, SAPHA is proud to join as a community partner with the College of Public Health at The University of North Texas Health Science Center in developing a Community Health Ambassador program to address the high prevalence of type II diabetes in the South Asian community in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Last month, Partnerships Coordinator Amish Doshi and Treasurer Malinee Neelamegam attended the kickoff meeting in Fort Worth and had a chance to meet fellow community partners and learn about the work ahead.
The CEAL Advisory Council, including our Partnerships Coordinator
Amish Doshi, MPH (far right of photo).
As a member of the Community Health Ambassador Council (CHAC), SAPHA’s role will be to attend quarterly council meetings, provide culturally-relevant feedback, assist in recruitment, participate in the co-creation of survey tools, interview guides, and program development.
We look forward to providing future updates on this exciting project!
Organization Spotlight: SHAHI
The South Asian Health and Harmony Initiative(SHAHI) is a non-profit organization with the mission to improve health literacy and mitigate health inequities for South Asians by generating community through storytelling, research, and education.
SHAHI seeks to understand how identity impacts decisions about our health and the health of our loved ones. SHAHI is generating a platform where people can find beacons of hope in managing their illness and provide resources for South Asians looking to improve the quality of life for themselves or their loved ones. SHAHI has published interview-write ups (including physicians) and newsletters, each presenting a different theme of South Asian health.
✅ To be featured on SHAHI’s stories, please feel free to complete the following interest form: SHAHI Stories Interest Form.
🚨New Publications on Reproductive Health🚨
Infertility Among South Asian Women in the U.S.: Gynecologic Diagnosis and Future Risk of Chronic Disease
A new publication titled "Infertility Among South Asian Women in the U.S.: Gynecologic Diagnosis and Future Risk of Chronic Disease" by Shreya Bhatia, BS, Vanderbilt University, Nitasha Nagaraj, DrPh, George Washington University, and Amita Vyas, PhD at George Washington University, explores the link between infertility, gynecologic disorders, and the increased risk of chronic diseases among South Asian women in the U.S.
The study finds high rates of conditions like uterine fibroids, endometriosis, and PCOS, which are associated with a greater likelihood of developing chronic diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and hypertension. The authors emphasize the need for more targeted research and healthcare strategies to address these health disparities in the South Asian community.
Sexual and Reproductive Health Care in the AANHPI Community: Understanding Barriers to Access in Georgia
The report "Sexual and Reproductive Health Care in the AANHPI Community: Understanding Barriers to Access in Georgia" from theNational Asian Pacific American Women's Forum (NAPAWF) highlights significant barriers to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) care faced by Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities in Georgia.
Conducted in partnership with Emory University's Center for Reproductive Health Research in the Southeast, the study identifies challenges such as financial constraints, negative experiences with SRH providers, and a lack of knowledge about abortion. Despite having access to healthcare, many AANHPI individuals face difficulties in accessing care due to cultural stigma, language barriers, and limited family discussions around SRH.
The report calls for improved community-based resources and healthcare services tailored to the specific needs of these communities.
3/27 - South Asian Health Research and Rights Panel
🗓️ On Thursday, March 27th at Noon-1pm ET/9am-10am PT, join the second panel in a timely series exploring what's at stake for Indian Americans under the new administration.
In a time when trust in mainstream news is increasingly questioned, the series offers a space for thoughtful and expert-driven discussion to educate and empower the South Asian community with actionable insights.
MODERATOR
🎤 Sital Kalantry, Founding Director Roundglass India Center, Associate Dean and Professor of Law at the Seattle University Law School
SPEAKERS
🎤 Vin Gupta, American pulmonologist and medical analyst for NBC News and MSNBC. He also serves as an affiliate professor at University of Washington's Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation
🎤 Samira Khan, President, South Asian Public Health Association (SAPHA), a national nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the health and well-being of South Asian communities in the United States through advocacy, partnerships with public health professionals, and communicating relevant knowledge about South Asian health.
🎤 Seema Mohapatra, MD Anderson Foundation Endowed Professor in Health Law and Professor of Law, Southern Methodist University; Expert in health law, bioethics, racial and gender equity, assisted reproduction & reproductive justice.
This event brings together healthcare leaders, community advocates, and policymakers to discuss critical issues such as healthcare access, representation in healthcare research, and disparities affecting Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (AA & NH/PI) communities.
The summit will feature discussions on topics like mental health, the Affordable Care Act’s impact, and the need for disaggregated health data.
Key elected officials, including Reps. Judy Chu and Pramila Jayapal,
will also participate.
APAICS is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the participation of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) in the political process, including through leadership development, advocacy, and increasing AAPI representation in government.
Graduate students at GWU are looking for participants for public health research to help better understand the health and well-being of South Asian women.
If you identify as a South Asian Woman attending a college in the U.S. and are over the age of 18, click the link below to take the survey and enter for a chance to win a $50 gift card.
The CEAL Advisory Council, including our Partnerships Coordinator Amish Doshi, MPH (far right of photo).
As part of NIH’s Community Engagement Alliance (CEAL) grant, SAPHA is proud to join as a community partner with the College of Public Health at The University of North Texas Health Science Center in developing a Community Health Ambassador program to address the high prevalence of type II diabetes in the South Asian community in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.
The CEAL project is a nationwide NIH-funded initiative emphasizing community engagement to address health disparities. A key project within the Texas CEALConsortium focuses on the South Asian community titled: "Community-Engaged Development and Implementation of the South Asian Community Health Ambassador Program for Type II Diabetes Prevention and Management."
By training Community Health Workers (CHWs) as trusted educators and advocates, CEAL strengthens community-driven efforts to prevent and manage Type II diabetes. Through collaboration, engagement, and culturally relevant strategies, this project aims to create lasting, sustainable health solutions.
Last month, Partnerships Coordinator Amish Doshi and Treasurer Malinee Neelamegam attended the kickoff meeting in Fort Worth and had a chance to meet fellow community partners and learn about the work.
As a member of the Community Health Ambassador Council (CHAC), SAPHA’s role will be to attend quarterly council meetings, provide culturally-relevant feedback, assist in recruitment, participate in the co-creation of survey tools, interview guides, and program development.
This research is being performed at UCSF, UCD, UCI, UH, CSUEB or ICAN and other institutions/organizations with Institutional Review Board approvals for research with Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) populations. All collected information will be de-identified and your participation is voluntary.
To be eligible for the CARE study, you must:
Self-identify as Asian, Asian American, Native Hawaiian and/or Pacific Islander (AANHPI)
Be 18 years old or older
Be able to read and speak one of the following languages: English, Chinese (Mandarin, Cantonese), Hawaiian, Hindi, Ilocano, Japanese, Korean, Samoan, Tagalog or Vietnamese
Reside in the United States (US) or U.S. Associated Pacific Islands (USAPI)
Have an interest in participating in potential research
SAPHA is eager to support this important data collection effort, which will contribute to meaningful research on aging-related diseases and health in AANHPI communities.
