Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month 2024 Reading List

Social Determinants of Health and Health Disparities in Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders Reading List

This reading list developed by the HHS Office of Minority Health (OMH) Knowledge Center contains resources focused on the social determinants of health (SDOH) that shape health outcomes for Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (AA and NHPI). It aims both to provide a snapshot of the unique and shared health disparities facing AA and NHPI communities and to highlight how addressing SDOH factors can mitigate health disparities and improve health equity for this population.

The reading list highlights the five SDOH domains: 

  1. Economic Stability
  2. Education Access and Quality
  3. Health Care Access and Quality
  4. Neighborhood and Built Environment
  5. Social and Community Context 

The resources in this list are available to read and download for free. For more resources on the health of racial and ethnic minority populations, please visit the OMH Knowledge Center online catalog.  

Economic Stability

Economic stability is a major social determinant of health. It refers to having a steady income and enough resources to meet basic needs such as food, housing, healthcare, and transportation. People with economic stability are more likely to have good health outcomes, while those who are struggling financially are more likely to experience health problems. 

Asian Americans experience a wider range of economic outcomes than any other racial group in the United States.

Research indicates that economic instability among NHPIs may be correlated with a range of health complications, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and tooth loss.

Education Access and Quality

Access to educational resources and quality education plays a significant role in health. Education equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to understand health information and make informed decisions about their health and the healthcare system.

The COVID-19 pandemic had a noticeable impact on education in Asian American families, from racism on college campuses to the challenges of homeschooling.

These resources highlight the interplay between quality education and health for NHPIs and the importance of supporting and strengthening NHPI-serving educational institutions.

Health Care Access and Quality

Health care access and quality of care is a fundamental social determinant of health. Geographic proximity, affordability, and availability of healthcare providers all influence how easily people can get the care they need. Approximately 10% of the U.S. population does not have health insurance, which can prevent individuals from seeking out healthcare services. Difficulty navigating the healthcare system and lack of culturally and linguistically appropriate care providers can also affect access to quality care.

Acculturation among Asian immigrants can affect health outcomes, from an increase of chronic medical conditions such as diabetes and breast cancer to an increase in leisure physical activity.

Due to a constellation of factors that include providers’ deficits in cultural and linguistic understanding, racial discrimination, historical health policy, and underrepresentation in health research, the NHPI population experiences significant health disparities and access barriers.

Neighborhood and Built Environment

Neighborhoods play a key role in health. Where you live can significantly impact your health and well-being. Unfortunately, racial and ethnic minority populations and low-income residents are more likely to live in neighborhoods with higher health risks. Creating neighborhoods and environments that promote health and safety, like walkable communities and accessible greenspaces, can help improve health outcomes and quality of life.

Studies show that Asian American communities within cities face poorer health conditions due to social factors like lack of health insurance and higher poverty rates.

Studies show that NHPI populations view neighborhood factors such as social cohesion and access to healthy foods as integral to their health and well-being.

Social and Community Context

Social connections matter. Relationships with family, friends, and community provide support, reduce stress, and influence healthy behaviors. Strong social connections and a sense of belonging within a community foster well-being. Discrimination, unsafe neighborhoods, and lack of resources can hinder getting the social support needed for good health.

Family communication is essential for Asian American families due to the complex interplay between cultural values and mental and physical health.

The stress of racism and discrimination has been shown to impact the mental health of NHPI individuals. Strong social support systems can be a mitigating factor for adverse health outcomes.


Last Edited: 09/11/2024