South Asian Professional Network for Health Awareness (SAPNA)
SAPNA is a volunteer-run, not-for-profit organization with the mission to raise awareness of health issues facing Canadians of South Asian descent and provide an opportunity for personal growth of its members. What makes us unique is that we bring these two elements together in a way that people can feel great about developing as an individual; for example, through novel networking events and other offerings whilst improving the lives of fellow South Asians through a variety of health related programs. The primary health issues that are the focus of our efforts include: Heart Disease, Diabetes, Obesity, Healthy Eating and Fitness. SAPNA's mission will be realized through it's own events and programs and through partnership with other like-minded organizations.
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SAPNA LAUNCH OF ACTION PLAN TO ADVANCE THE HEALTH OF SOUTH ASIAN CANADIANS A HUGE SUCCESS
The South Asian Professional Network for Health Awareness (SAPNA) launched its Action Plan to Advance the Health of South Asian Canadians on February 21, 2012 at the MaRS Centre in Toronto, ON. This Action Plan was developed through the SAPNA Institute for Policy & Research – a Canadian not-for-profit think-tank focused on raising awareness and informing policy/decision-making to advance South Asian health.
“We’re here to launch the first output from the SAPNA Institute for Policy and Research which has resulted from the bringing together of stakeholders from government, industry, healthcare and community groups to help us identify key issues and barriers to healthy living within the South Asian community,” said Dr. Rav Kumar, President of SAPNA.
According to the report, South Asians represent the largest and fastest-growing visible minority group in Canada and are three to five times more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes than the general population. Of all expatriate ethnic groups, South Asians have the highest rates of death and illness from diabetes-related cardiovascular disease.
Dr. Colin Saldanha, Chair of the SAPNA Advisory Board, provided an overview of the Action Plan, which addresses the role of public policy, partnerships, culture-focused strategies, and behaviour modification in improving South Asian health.
An important feature of the night also included a cheque presentation by SAPNA to the Canadian Diabetes Association and the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
“SAPNA’s contribution to the Canadian Diabetes Association and the Heart and Stroke Foundation will help implement programs for South Asian Canadians. Programs that will create new tools and resources to educate South Asian Canadians on their risks and actions for healthy living,” said Dr. Rav Kumar.
Some of the horoured guests in attendance at the launch included, Mr Saad Rafi, Deputy Minister of Health for Ontario and Mrs Preeti Saran, Consul-General of India
Click here to download a pdf copy of the report
About the South Asian Professional Network for Health Awareness (SAPNA)
SAPNA, meaning “dream” in Hindi, is a non-profit organization committed to improving the health and well-being of South Asian Canadians. SAPNA members dream of the day when South Asian Canadians are aware, empowered, motivated and supported in living longer, healthier lives.
SAPNA tweets
Health Awareness
SAPNA targets health issues that seriously affect people of South Asian descent. They include:
Heart Disease:
South Asians are more prone to heart disease than other ethnic groups in Canada. Learn more from the Heart & Stroke Foundation website.
South Asians are 4-5x more likely to develop type-2 diabetes. Learn more from the Canadian Diabetes Association website
Obesity:
Obesity is a major indicator for many chronic and lifestyle diseases including heart disease and diabetes. Read more>
Healthy Eating:
Unhealthy aspects of traditional South Asian diets can be addressed with awareness and recommendations for a healthy lifestyle. Read more>
An improved level of physical fitness is a key strategy for South Asians for combating potential and current health issues. Read more>
Social Networks
Follow us on Twitter, expand your Personal network by joining the SAPNA Facebook Page and expand your Professional network by joining the SAPNA LinkedIn Group.