Focusing on Brain Health: Phoenix Community Event Promotes Alzheimer’s Awareness and Education
The “Brain Health is Community Health” professional and community development program, hosted by OCA Greater Phoenix Chapter (OCA GPC) and co-sponsored by Eli Lilly and Company, was successfully held on April 24 at Arizona State University’s Mercado campus. Centered on the theme “Your Brain Matters: Start Prioritizing Your Brain Health Today,” the event brought together approximately 100 attendees, including community members, healthcare professionals, and individuals interested in brain health and wellness. The program received strong engagement and an enthusiastic response throughout.
Registration began at 10:00 a.m., followed by the keynote session at 11:00 a.m. The program opened with welcome remarks by Dr. Kenja Hassan, followed by a keynote presentation by Xiaoming Dong, MD, PhD, neurologist at the Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology. Dr. Dong delivered an accessible and informative presentation on brain health and Alzheimer’s disease. Emphasizing the importance of “starting from facts, not fear,” she explained the mechanisms of cognitive decline, addressed common misconceptions, and highlighted early warning signs. She also underscored that healthy lifestyle choices and early intervention can help reduce risk, encouraging participants to take proactive steps in their daily lives.
David W. Coon, PhD, Foundation Professor at Arizona State University’s Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, also shared insights into the college’s mission and future direction.
Following a brief lunch break, the program continued with a panel discussion and Q&A session moderated by Kevin Dang. The panel featured a multidisciplinary group of experts, including Shweta Kapoor, MD (Psychiatry), community advocate Michael Kelly, Molly Maxfield, PhD (Associate Professor, ASU), and legal expert Marc Cavness, JD. Discussion topics included defining brain health, understanding the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, prevention and risk reduction strategies, and long-term care planning, including legal considerations.
During the interactive Q&A session, attendees actively engaged with the panel, asking questions related to diet, exercise, family medical history, and caregiving challenges. The discussion reflected strong community interest and a clear need for accessible, practical information. Panelists encouraged participants to establish ongoing relationships with healthcare providers, pursue early cognitive screening, and take a proactive role in managing their health. Legal guidance further emphasized the importance of advance planning to reduce future burdens on families.
Astria Wong, President of OCA GPC, played a key role in facilitating the seminar and supporting its overall coordination and success. The program proceeded smoothly and delivered both professional depth and practical value. She also recognized Janene Wong-Brehmer, OCA Program and Marketing Director, along with the OCA volunteer team for their contributions. Organizers expressed sincere appreciation for the strong community support that made the event possible.
Overall, the “Brain Health is Community Health” initiative successfully advanced its goal of increasing awareness and fostering informed dialogue. It strengthened understanding of Alzheimer’s disease within the Chinese American community while encouraging broader conversations around brain health. As the population continues to age, brain health remains an increasingly critical issue affecting individuals, families, and communities. Through expert insights and interdisciplinary discussion, the event provided a meaningful platform for education, connection, and continued community engagement.
