The Asian American Commission's Health and Human Services Committee Community Advisory Group met with groups focused on providing health services to the Asian American Community to discuss issues that face the community on Wednesday, April 5 2017. 

Dr. Elisa Choi, Chairperson for the AAC, outlined several health issues that are facing the Asian American Commission.  Diabetes is a big challenge in the community that has required special attention. While in the general populace a BMI of 25 is considered the point for screening for diabetes, in the Asian American Population it should be 23. Screen at 23 is a big movement to help the community. Mental health is another huge issue in the community. The taboo against seeking help makes it even more difficult to address. 

Attendees brought up several other issues. Asian Americans are often viewed as a monolithic unit which is far from the truth. Finding health data that is specific to each Asian group is hard to find.  Informational material in different languages and availability of interpreters continues to be a challenge. In the Cambodian communities, where first generation immigrants have unresolved mental health issues caused by the horrors of the Kymer Rouge regime, it is impacting the second generation that does not understand it.

The AAC decided to reflect on the issues that were brought up, prioritize and work on addressing top few challenges. To learn more about the commission check out their website at http://www.aacomission.org.