Cambodian Breast Health Education and Support Together

Cambodian Breast Health Education and Support Together (Cam-BHEST) Program aims to increase knowledge and improve access of underserved, low-income Cambodian women and men to needed culturally and linguistically appropriate breast health services and resources. Our trauma affected Cambodians do not seek preventive health services, including breast cancer screening, due to lack of familiarity with cancer as a disease process and western concepts of early detection. Moreover, disease is traditionally viewed as karma from their past life by most Cambodians. Nevertheless, when they do seek preventive measures, they face stigma, cultural, language, and transportation barriers. We have learned from our current participants that 80% of respondents reported either “difficult” or “very difficult” when obtaining breast health care services and 85% of them reported that they have at least 5 barriers that made it difficult for them to get breast health care services. The Cam-BHEST program offers:

• Individual and Group Breast Health Education Classes
• Breast Exam and Mammogram Screening
• Healthy Cooking/Nutrition Classes
• Case Management/Care Coordination/Patient Navigation Services
• Translation and Interpretation Services
• Weekly Exercise and Yoga Classes

Since 2016, we have educated over 500 community members about breast cancer and assisted over 300 women with getting their mammogram. As such, 92% of those surveyed reported that they learned new information regarding signs/symptoms of breast cancer, its risks factors, the importance of early detection/treatment, and where to go get help. Moreover, 95% reported that they will get their mammogram after attending our workshop. For more information about this program, please contact Amina: Health Program Director, aminasm@cambodianfamily.org.