[PA-7] Cambodian Community Health 2010
Sheila Fernandez, BS, Lowell Community Health Center, Lowell, MA
Purpose: The goal of the Cambodian Community Health 2010 (CCH 2010) is to eliminate health disparities among the Cambodian population of Lowell in regards to cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Methods: Our outreach efforts involve creative strategies such as: learning tours at local hospitals, health centers, police department and fire station, holding exercise groups where participants practice Tai Chi, educational fruit and vegetable picking tours where nutritional facts are discussed, educational groups here we speak about CVD and diabetes, creating culturally appropriate and literacy appropriate educational materials, diabetes and high blood pressure peer support groups and health fairs.
Our advocacy has and continues to link Cambodians who have CVD or diabetes to culturally appropriate health services, thus gaining better health care. We provide services such as: interpreting, providing referrals to services needed and providing one-on-one education about CVD and Diabetes.
Currently, our program is conducting a Behavioral Risk Factor Survey in Lowell, MA. This Survey will help us study frequencies and trends in the Cambodian Community in regards to CVD and Diabetes and its associated factors such as exercise, diet, health beliefs and practices. The results will be tabulated and published by the end of year 2002.
Results: The Cambodian population of Lowell has numerous risk factors, including high smoking rates and has limited awareness of cardiovascular disease and treatment options. This places them at a disproportional risk for morbidity and mortality due to CVD.
Conclusion: Outreach and advocacy interventions in the community and health care system will continue to be implemented as stated in our community action plans.
