Meet the Team: Mukta Deia, Program Coordinator, Infectious Diseases

Welcome to our blog series, “Meet the AAPCHO Team,” where you’ll have a chance to get to know our staff! Meet Mukta Deia, as she answers some questions.

What’s your role at AAPCHO?

I am the Program Coordinator of Infectious Diseases, focusing primarily on the Tuberculosis Elimination Alliance. I am responsible for providing assistance in coordinating programs related to maintaining and strengthening current tuberculosis control, COVID-19, and Hepatitis B priorities.

What are three Asian American, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific Islander health topics that you think people should know about?

Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders face tremendous disparities in health outcomes and indicators, similar to other communities of color. Some of the more prevalent health conditions among these groups include cancer, diabetes and substance use. Cancer continues to be the number one cause of death among Asian Americans. Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders are disproportionately affected by type 2 diabetes. Substance abuse/dependence is a prominent health concern for Native Hawaiians. Solutions to eliminate the disparities in these heterogeneous groups are complicated by various complex and interconnected social determinants of health, such as historical trauma, environmental conditions, and health literacy. However, community-based health centers and organizations are an example of a mechanism designed to reduce gaps and improve health equity among these populations.

How would you describe what community health centers do and why they should support them to someone who may not be familiar with them?

Community health centers are clinics that provide primary healthcare services to serve populations with limited access to healthcare. They play an important role in addressing health disparities by ensuring equitable access to resources, ultimately improving health outcomes on a community-wide basis.

What are you most looking forward to in your new position at AAPCHO?

I am looking forward to the opportunity to work with a team with diverse experiences and skill sets at AAPCHO. I believe it will push me to continue learning and be adaptable, and it means that I will always have a wonderful group of intelligent people who can help me gauge and refine my own work.

What is your favorite or go-to childhood comfort food?

Potato smiles! :)