25 LC 129 0115 Senate Resolution 290 By: Senators Islam Parkes of the 7th, Jones II of the 22nd, Jackson of the 41st, Mallow of the 2nd, Esteves of the 35th and others A RESOLUTION Recognizing the need for culturally competent risk assessment tools, targeted public health 1 initiatives, and enhanced healthcare interventions; and for other purposes.2 WHEREAS, South Asian Americans are disproportionately affected by atherosclerotic3 cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), commonly known as heart disease, which manifests earlier4 in life, often before the age of 50, and in a more aggressive manner than in other populations;5 and6 WHEREAS, this increased risk of ASCVD is closely linked to a higher prevalence of type-27 diabetes among South Asian Americans, underscoring the urgent need for targeted research8 and intervention within the State of Georgia; and9 WHEREAS, risk assessment plays a fundamental role in reducing the incidence of heart10 disease, yet existing risk assessment algorithms are not developed based on data from South11 Asian Americans, failing to differentiate between native and migrant populations and12 masking critical health disparities among South Asian subgroups; and13 S. R. 290 - 1 - 25 LC 129 0115 WHEREAS, the absence of population-specific risk assessment tools results in inaccurate 14 estimations of cardiovascular disease risk for South Asian Americans, leading to gaps in15 prevention, early detection, and treatment; and16 WHEREAS, it is essential to develop and implement appropriate screening and management17 strategies for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in South Asian Americans, taking into18 account hereditary predisposition, established coronary risk factors, and the impact of19 lifestyle choices such as diet and physical activity; and20 WHEREAS, there is a demonstrable need for structured interventions at the state level to21 promote increased physical activity, encourage healthier dietary habits, and advance early22 recognition tools to improve cardiovascular outcomes for South Asian Americans; and23 WHEREAS, improved standards of care, including the incorporation of advanced imaging24 and other diagnostic tools, are necessary to enhance the identification and management of25 heart disease within the South Asian American community.26 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body27 recognize the urgent need for culturally competent risk assessment tools, targeted public28 health initiatives, and enhanced healthcare interventions to improve outcomes and save lives.29 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed30 to make appropriate copies of this resolution available for distribution to the public and the31 press.32 S. R. 290 - 2 -