A new report from the University of California, Irvine reveals alarming health disparities hidden by aggregated data within Pacific Islander and Asian American communities in California. The study, titled “Invisibility Is Killing Us,” highlights the urgent need for disaggregated data to accurately represent the diverse health experiences of these populations.
Researchers surveyed nearly 40 health departments across California, uncovering a lack of standardized practices for collecting race and ethnicity data. Only six departments reported creating their own standards, while 11 followed federal guidelines. Shockingly, Solano County stood alone in disaggregating Pacific Islander and Asian American data by subgroups.
This data aggregation has led to significant health inequities, including underfunded public health initiatives for specific chronic diseases, mental health challenges, and barriers to healthcare access among various subgroups.
Cevadne Lee, principal investigator of the study, emphasizes the importance of data equity and visibility for Pacific Islander and Asian American contributions in public health data. The report’s findings were presented to 400 community leaders, policymakers, and healthcare professionals at two in-person events, demonstrating a commitment to community-centered approaches.
The researchers call for immediate action, recommending that the California Department of Public Health create a statewide standard for collecting and reporting race and ethnicity data. They also urge increased investment in community-centered approaches when developing policies, collecting data, and reporting health outcomes.
“Invisibility Is Killing Us” serves as a crucial wake-up call, highlighting the dire consequences of overlooking the diverse health experiences within these communities. As Dr. Sora Park Tanjasiri, co-author of the report, states, “The health of entire communities is at stake.”
