University of Utah Scientists Co-Host First Utah Pacific Islander Health Symposium with Community Partners
In an inspiring event this past November, Kalani Raphael, MD, MS, a Professor in the Division of Nephrology & Hypertension, brought together community members and experts to discuss the unique health challenges faced by the Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities. The event featured talks from Dr. Raphael, Marcus Pezzolesi, PhD, MPH, and others, highlighting research efforts to improve health outcomes for these underserved populations.
The event aimed to highlight these challenges while also shining a light on the University of Utah's ongoing efforts to tackle them through research, education, and collaboration.
Keynote speakers included Dr. Raphael and Dr. Pezzolesi, whose work has been pivotal in advancing understanding of the genetic and environmental factors affecting Pacific Islander health. Both speakers discussed the complex relationship between genetics, lifestyle, and chronic diseases, particularly those that disproportionately affect the Pacific Islander population, such as diabetes and kidney disease.
The symposium also featured presentations by Dr. Mary Playdon, Dr. Jenny Majersik, and a group of dedicated Haumana' O Pasifika Program students. These presentations explored the importance of culturally competent care and the need for more inclusive healthcare systems to serve diverse populations better.
The Haumana' O Pasifika Program, a community-driven initiative, brought student voices into the conversation, emphasizing the value of educational programs that empower Pacific Islanders to engage in health advocacy and research. The students' participation demonstrated the importance of giving young people from the community a platform to share their experiences and insights.
Dr. Raphael emphasized the importance of research and collaboration in closing the health disparities gap for Pacific Islanders. "This symposium is not just about awareness," he said. "It's about creating actionable solutions through research, education, and community involvement. We're working to ensure Pacific Islanders have access to the care and resources they need to live healthier lives."
The symposium was a significant step forward in the University of Utah's ongoing commitment to addressing health inequities. By gathering experts and community members together, the event highlighted the importance of collaboration and cultural understanding in tackling the unique health challenges faced by the Pacific Islander community.
The success of the inaugural Utah Pacific Islander Health Symposium sets a promising foundation for future events aimed at advancing health equity for Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander populations in Utah and beyond.