WHY SOUTH ASIAN HEALTH?
Advocating for the cardiovascular health of South Asians is imperative due to the disproportionate burden of heart disease in this community. South Asians have a higher predisposition to cardiovascular diseases (CVD) compared to other ethnic groups, often due to a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. This population tends to develop heart disease at a younger age and with lower body mass indexes, often accompanied by unique risk factors such as higher rates of diabetes, central obesity, and metabolic syndrome. Effective advocacy involves raising awareness about these heightened risks and promoting culturally tailored preventive measures. It is crucial to encourage regular health screenings and foster an understanding of healthy dietary practices, including the reduction of refined carbohydrates and unhealthy fats prevalent in traditional South Asian diets. Additionally, promoting physical activity and stress management within this community can play a significant role in mitigating CVD risks. By addressing these specific needs through targeted public health campaigns, community engagement, and healthcare provider education, we can improve cardiovascular outcomes and enhance the overall well-being of South Asians.
MY RESEARCH
My research focuses on assessing the awareness of cardiac disease risk factors among South Asian populations, including individuals from India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Bhutan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. South Asians have a higher predisposition to cardiovascular conditions due to genetic, dietary, and lifestyle factors. However, awareness of these risks remains limited, potentially leading to delayed prevention and intervention efforts. By evaluating the current knowledge and perceptions within this population, my study aims to identify gaps in awareness and highlight areas where targeted education and lifestyle interventions can be most effective. The findings will inform culturally relevant health initiatives designed to reduce the prevalence of cardiac disease and promote heart health within the South Asian community.
WHAT IS THE MASALA STUDY?
The Mediators of Atherosclerosis in South Asians Living in America (MASALA) Study is the first comprehensive longitudinal study designed to investigate the unique risk factors contributing to heart disease among South Asians in the United States. Established in 2010, the MASALA Study aims to address the growing concern that South Asians experience disproportionately high rates of cardiovascular disease compared to other ethnic groups, often at younger ages and with lower body mass indices.
By following a cohort of South Asian participants over time, the study examines a wide range of factors influencing heart disease, including genetics, diet, physical activity, metabolic health, and psychosocial stress. The research also explores how lifestyle behaviors, cultural influences, and migration-related changes impact cardiovascular health within this population.
Findings from the MASALA Study have already shed light on key health disparities, such as a higher prevalence of diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and early coronary artery disease among South Asians. These insights help guide tailored prevention strategies, improve early detection, and shape public health policies aimed at reducing the burden of heart disease within this community.
For more information about the MASALA Study and its latest findings, visit MASALA Study Website.
