DISAGGREGATED DATA: IDENTIFYING INEQUITIES AND IMPROVING HEALTH OUTCOMES FOR ASIAN AMERICAN, NATIVE HAWAIIAN, AND PACIFIC ISLANDER (AANHPI) POPULATIONS

Abstract

The Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) population is composed of more than 50 unique subgroups, yet they have historically all fallen under a single umbrella category in data. This aggregate data masks disparities experienced by these diverse populations and contributes to the misconception that AANHPI is a homogenous population. By analyzing cervical cancer incidence rates across different AANHPI subgroups, the critical need for disaggregated health data is highlighted. As a whole, AANHPI are less likely to have cervical cancer compared to other racial/ethnic groups but Vietnamese and Cambodian women are significantly more likely to have cervical cancer. Each subgroup has unique cultural values, barriers to care, risk factors, and health outcomes that must be reflected in data in order to direct resources where needed. Disaggregated data also reveals the differences in risk factors, such as lower rates of cervical cancer screenings and HPV vaccinations in AANHPI subgroups. Understanding these differences highlights the importance of community initiatives to address disparities. To support the shift towards disaggregated data and health equity, education, outreach, and advocacy efforts are essential. Along with this research paper, a presentation targeted to pre-health students and healthcare professionals was created. It introduces the concept of disaggregated data and the implications on health equity as well as offers resources to learn more and advocate for change.