RWJMS SATHI Support Fund
Gifts to the South Asian Total Health Initiative Support Fund will be used to support community-based research and health education for South Asians living in NJ.
South Asian Total Health Initiative (SATHI)
The South Asian Total Health Initiative (SATHI) is dedicated to improving the total health of South Asians by empowering healthcare consumers, promoting culturally competent healthcare, and reducing health disparities. Through research, education, and community engagement, SATHI strives to address critical health challenges affecting South Asian populations.
Our Mission
SATHI is committed to conducting and promoting research on South Asian health while working to reduce healthcare disparities and improve the delivery of culturally competent medical care. The initiative focuses on educating, engaging, and empowering the South Asian community to promote wellness and enhance health literacy. Additionally, SATHI provides technical assistance and consultation to policymakers, healthcare providers, and other key stakeholders to ensure that healthcare services are tailored to meet the unique needs of South Asians.
Research & Projects
SATHI’s research initiatives aim to deepen the understanding of health concerns within South Asian communities and develop effective, culturally tailored health awareness and prevention programs. Projects such as Project SAHAS (South Asian Health Awareness about Stroke) have contributed significantly to stroke awareness, while other initiatives have addressed the historically low testing rates for HIV/AIDS in South Asian populations. These projects, along with ongoing research efforts, continue to provide valuable insights into health determinants and inform the development of targeted interventions that improve community health outcomes.
Community Based Projects & Research
SATHI & Cancer Awareness Initiative
In collaboration with The Cancer Institute of New Jersey (CINJ), SATHI is actively working to improve cancer awareness and screening opportunities for South Asian communities. This partnership focuses on educating South Asians about their cancer risks and increasing access to early detection and preventive care. By hosting screening events at temples and cultural centers, SATHI ensures that these essential health services are accessible to community members in familiar and trusted environments.
Additionally, SATHI and CINJ are committed to enhancing cultural competency among healthcare professionals, equipping them with the necessary knowledge and training to better serve South Asian patients. As part of this initiative, healthcare providers are being educated on the unique challenges South Asians face in preventive care, including cultural barriers that may discourage routine cancer screenings.
SATHI is dedicated to providing essential health and wellness resources for South Asian communities, offering access to support services related to disabilities, domestic violence, and mental health. By connecting individuals with these vital resources, SATHI fosters a supportive network that addresses the diverse health needs of South Asians and enhances overall community well-being.
SATHI’s contributions to public health have been widely recognized. In 2009, it was named a finalist for the NJ BIZ Health Care Heroes Award. The following year, the New Jersey State Assembly issued a proclamation in recognition of SATHI’s work in addressing health disparities and health literacy in the South Asian community. That same year, SATHI received an award from the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin Health Council for its impact on South Asian healthcare through charitable and social service efforts.
Since its establishment in 2008, SATHI has made significant strides in research, education, and community outreach. The initiative has successfully conducted 11 community-based research projects, resulting in multiple scholarly publications that have contributed to the field of South Asian health. It has organized two major continuing medical education conferences and hosted seven Global Crossroads scholarly seminars, furthering the conversation on health disparities and culturally competent care.
SATHI has secured over $400,000 in external funding, strengthening its ability to expand research and outreach efforts. Collaborations with over 15 community-based organizations, as well as academic partnerships with Albert Einstein School of Medicine and Northwestern School of Medicine, have reinforced its role as a leader in South Asian health initiatives. The initiative’s multimodal approach to community-based health outreach—through health fairs, temple outreach, and South Asian radio programming—has helped disseminate vital health information to at-risk populations.
Contact Us
For more information about SATHI, its research, or community initiatives, please reach out to us:
South Asian Total Health Initiative
Robert Wood Johnson Medical School
Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Infectious Diseases
89 French Street, PCRC
New Brunswick, NJ
Phone: 732-235-6132 | Fax: 732-235-9060
Email: gaursu@rwjms.rutgers.edu
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM