About the Health & Mental Health Department
About Us
We strive to address the barriers that prevent access to information about various health issues affecting Vietnamese. These barriers include language, culture, and difficulty navigating the healthcare system. We implement several programs to appropriately raise awareness and encourage healthier behaviors within the community.
Mission
To provide preventative education to increase awareness of and access to health and mental health related issues among Vietnamese immigrants and refugees.
To collaborate with organizations, agencies and ethnic communities to improve capacity in serving the Vietnamese-American community.
To educate service providers and decision makers of the barriers facing the target population in accessing health and mental health services.
Target Population
Torture survivors, their family members and those who have experienced traumatizing events will participate more in their community and help serve others to be more self-sufficient in their daily needs.
Vietnamese-American women will live longer and healthier life through early screening and detection of breast and cervical cancer.
Vietnamese immigrants and refugees will be restored to their resilient nature of being able to cope well with stressful or traumatizing events.
Contact Us
Contact Us
Here at the Health and Mental Health Department, we are eager to answer any questions you have regarding our programs. We'd be more than happy to answer any of your concerns.
Health and Mental Health Department (HMHD) Staff Organization Chart
[img_assist|nid=505|title=STEP Team|desc=(left to right) Schlese Castilla, Hien Dang, Thu Nguyen, Dao-Tien Ha, Xuan Le, Celine Duong|link=popup|align=left|width=300|height=225]
Thu Nguyen, HMHD Director (Falls Church, VA)
(703) 538-2190 x238 (p)
(703) 538-2191 (f)
Jamie McAllister, Fund Developer (Falls Church, VA)
(703) 538-2190 x245
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Seniors and Trauma Survivors Empowerment Program (STEP)
Xuan Le, Program Coordinator
(703) 538-2190 x206
Dao Tien Ha, Outreach Coordinator
(703) 538-2190 x215
Celine Duong, Case Manager
(703) 538-2190 x246
Schlese Castilla, AmeriCorps Member
(703) 538-2190 x240
Duong Hoang, Mental Health Counselor
(703) 538-2190 x235
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Health Awareness Program for Immigrants (HAPI)
Quynh Nguyen
Program Manager (Houston, TX)
(281) 530-1366
Alexia Dinh, Program Coordinator (Falls Church, VA)
(703) 647-6489
Hang Duong, Outreach Coordinator (Falls Church, VA)
(703) 647-6466
Thu-Ha La, Program Coordinator (Adelphi, MD)
(301) 439-0505
Truc Nghiem, Program Coordinator (Camden, NJ)
(856) 486-7770
Nhi Cao, Program Coordinator (Sacramento, CA)
(916) 456-5524
Tony Tran, Program Coordinator (New Orleans, LA)
(504) 433-8668
Khanh Nguyen, Program Coordinator (Springfield, MA)
(413) 846-6300
Daniel Le, Program Coordinator (Biloxi, MS)
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Community Awareness Campaign on Occupational Safety (CACOS)
Hien Phan
Program Manager (Charlotte, NC)
(704) 596-2157
Khanh Nguyen, Program Coordinator (Springfield, MA)
(413) 846-6300
Thanh Dang, Program Coordinator (St. Louis, MO)
(314) 772-0454
Ngoc Huynh, Program Coordinator (Houston, TX)
(281) 530-6888
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Programs
Programs
We strive to address the barriers that prevent access to information about various health issues affecting Vietnamese. These barriers include language, culture, and difficulty navigating the healthcare system. We implement several programs to appropriately raise awareness and encourage healthier behaviors within the community, including:
Seniors and Trauma Survivors Empowerment Program (STEP)
Seniors and Trauma Survivors Empowerment Program (STEP) is a community-based program that helps Vietnamese older adults and their families recover from postwar trauma and succeed in establishing new lives in the United States.
Health Awareness Program for Immigrants (HAPI)
The Health Awareness Program for Immigrants (HAPI) aims to educate the Vietnamese community about the risks of chronic diseases, the benefits of preventive health and how to access locally available services. Our current focus is on cervical and breast cancers, the two most common cancers among Vietnamese women. Early detection through Pap smears and mammograms can discover these two silent killers before they become life-threatening, yet an alarmingly low number of Vietnamese women are screened on a regular basis.
Community Awareness Campaign on Occupational Safetey (CACOS)
The goal of CACOS program is to reduce work-related exposures, injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. We aim to raise the awareness of Vietnamese employees and employers about occupational safety & health issues and the rights of workers to a safe workplace environment.
Chương Trình An Toàn và Sức Khoẻ Lao Ðộng
Chương trình này được tài trợ bởi cơ quan An Tồn và Sức Khoẻ Lao Động (Cơ quan OSHA www.osha.gov) kể từ năm 2000. Chương trình hiện tại được thực hiện ở 6 thành phố: Raleigh/Charlotte, NC; Springfield, MA; Philadelphia, PA; Houston, TX and St. Louis, MO.
Chúng tôi đã hợp tác với những cơ quan để cung cấp những buổi huấn luyện cho cơng nhân và chủ nhân như Bộ Lao Động của tiểu bang North Carolina, Bộ Lao Động của tiểu bang Massachusetts, Cơ quan OSHA Regional III ở Philadelphia và Regional IV ở Atlanta.
Seniors and Trauma Survivors Empowerment Program (STEP)
Seniors and Trauma Survivors Empowerment Program (STEP)
What is STEP?
Seniors and Trauma Survivors Empowerment Program (STEP) is a community-based program that helps Vietnamese older adults and their families recover from postwar trauma and succeed in establishing new lives in the United States.
STEP Model
Donate
Thank you for helping BPSOS meet urgent needs TODAY and empower Vietnamese communities for TOMORROW. To Donate Now:Online
Click here to donate with credit/debit cards or electronic checking account transfers through the Network for Good.
By Mail with Check or Money Order Make your check or money order payable to Boat People SOS and mail it to: Boat People SOS - STEP 6066 Leesburg Pike Suite 100 Falls Church, VA 22041-2220
By Corporate Match Contact your personnel department; your employer might add value to your own gift.
BPSOS is not a government agency; our programs and services are made possible primarily through the generosity of individuals, businesses and foundations who give voluntary gifts of time and money. Contributions to Boat People SOS (BPSOS), a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Services Code, are tax deductible. Please be sure to request a receipt and include your full name and address.
Partnerships
The Seniors and Trauma Survivors Empowerment Program (STEP) would not be possible without the continued support from federal grants, univeristy affiliations, and community organizations. On behalf of the STEP Team, we'd like to extend our gratitude to the following partners and funders for making our program a reality.
Funders
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
SAMSHA
Board of Advisors
George Mason University Center for the Advancement of Public Health
David Anderson, Ph.D
Rita Chi-Chung, Ph.D
Fred Bemak, Ph.D
Liz Hanfman
The Franklin Psychotherapy Center
Robert Weigl, Ph.D
Fairfax County Community Services Board
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Partnerships
Local faith-based organizations
Northern Virginia Seniors Citizens Association (NOVASCA)
Tuong Van Temple
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Community Organizations
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services-Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
Department of Community and Recreation
Department of Family Services
Community and Recreation Services- James Lee Senior Center
Vietnamese Seniors Association
Korean Community Service Center of Greater Washington
Office of Newcomer Services-REAP
Yorkville Cooperative Board of Directors
Department of Systems Management for Human Services
Virginia Cooperative Extension
Fairfax County Park Authority Park Services Division-Leisure & Wellness Branch
Mental Health Couseling & Information
Mental Health Counseling
The in-house counseling program funded by SAMSHA here at Boat People S.O.S. is designed to provide confidential and effective mental health services to older adults in a safe and caring environment. To be eligible, participants must be 55 years or older, or were part of the re-education camps (HO) program. The program offers Individual Psychotherapy, Family Therapy, Couple Therapy, Group Therapy, and Life Skills Training for a variety of problems.
Issues include but are not limited to:
- Elder Care & Family Transitions
- Stress & Pain Management, Depression & Bipolar Mood Disorders Anxiety & Panic & Phobic Disorders
- Separation & Divorce
- Senior Abuse & Neglect, Sexual Abuse & Rape
- Domestic Violence & Anger Management
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Appointment Scheduling
To participate, please contact Ms. Celine Duong at celine.duong@bpsos.org for a prescreening session.
Peer Companion Training
What is Peer Companion Training?
Peer Companions Training is a program that trains a select group of seniors to become Peer Companions and is based on the STEP MODEL. These seniors receive 10 months of training in a large array of skills necessary to work with individuals, groups, and institution in their communities. They facilitate all of the above activities under supervision of trained staff and mental health professionals.
Mental Health Counselor
Mr. Duong Hoang
First round graduates
Ms. Bui Pham Mai
Ms. Dinh Nhu-Nguyen
Ms. Ly Kim-Ha
Ms. Nguyen Hong-Hai
Ms. Nguyen Kim-Oanh
Ms. Nguyen Thi Bui
Mr. Phan Thanh
Ms. Tran Phuong
Ms. Tran Phuong-Lan
Ms. Trieu Kim-Lang
Thich Nu Thanh Lieu
Ms. Vuong Ba-Diep
Instructors
Nguyen Dinh Thang, Ph.D
David Anderson, Ph.D
Rita Chi-Chung, Ph.D
Fred Bemak, Ph.D
Robert Weigl, Ph.D
Toan Pham, Psy.D
Duong Hoang, MS
To participate, please contact Ms. Celine Duong at celine.duong@bpsos.org for a prescreening session.
Family Support Group
Family Support Group
We work closely with family and community members taking care of seniors to equip them with the tools necessary to live a healthy and fulfilling life in the US. We achieve this through educational workshops, referral services such as bilingual mental health counseling, and community involvement through cultural activities.
Keeping the Focus on Vietnamese Seniors
Many individuals arriving to the US are products of war in the 1970s and may still be affected by the trauma inflicted as refugees and asylum seekers. Seniors from the Vietnamese and Vietnamese American community may be isolated in their lives in the US due a several factors:
- linguistic barriers
- cultural differences
- insufficient means of transportation
- out of touch with community
- lack of family support
We are always looking for more communities to conduct workshops and for outreach! Please contact Xuan Le at (703) 538-2190 ext. 206 or email xuan.le@bpsos.org for more information.
Community Awareness Campaign on Occupational Safety (CACOS)
Community Awareness Campaign on Occupational Safety (CACOS)
What is CACOS?
The goal of CACOS program is to reduce work-related exposures, injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. We aim to raise the awareness of Vietnamese employees and employers about occupational safety & health issues and the rights of workers to a safe workplace environment. This program is funded by Occupational Safety and Health Admin (OSHA - www.osha.gov) since 2000. This program is currently implemented in 6 cities: Raleigh/Charlotte, NC; Springfield, MA; Philadelphia, PA; Houston, TX and St. Louis, MO. So far, we have collaborated with several agencies to bring training to Vietnamese employers and employees such as North Carolina Dept of Labor, MA Department of Labor and Cơ quan OSHA Regional III in Philadelphia, and Regional IV in Atlanta.
Donate
Thank you for helping BPSOS meet urgent needs TODAY and empower Vietnamese communities for TOMORROW. To Donate Now:Online
Click here to donate with credit/debit cards or electronic checking account transfers through the Network for Good.
By Mail with Check or Money Order Make your check or money order payable to Boat People SOS and mail it to: Boat People SOS - CACOS 6066 Leesburg Pike Suite 100 Falls Church, VA 22041-2220
By Corporate Match Contact your personnel department; your employer might add value to your own gift.
BPSOS is not a government agency; our programs and services are made possible primarily through the generosity of individuals, businesses and foundations who give voluntary gifts of time and money. Contributions to Boat People SOS (BPSOS), a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Services Code, are tax deductible. Please be sure to request a receipt and include your full name and address.
Materials
Materials in General Industry
3. Who Needs OSHA
8. Protect Young Workers
9. Worker’s Rights Under OSHA
12. Fire Prevention
13. Hazardous Chemicals in Nail Salons
16. Combustibles
17. Personal Protective Equipments
18. Mold Remediation
19. Tuberculosis
20. Walking-Working Surfaces Video
21. Materials Handling> (part 2)
22. Safety and Health Program
23. How to File Complaint With OSHA
24. Lockout/Tagout
Materials in Construction Industry
3. Trenching and Excavation
4. Struck-by
5. Hazardous Materials
Materials in Influenza Pandemic for Small Businesses
Training slideshow (English version) – under development
Useful Links
1. Occupational Safety and Health Admin (OSHA)
3. Pandemic Flu
4. Safety and Health Council of NC
Workplace safety education
We aim to raise the awareness of Vietnamese employees and employers about occupational safety & health issues and the rights of workers to a safe workplace environment. The goal of the Community Awareness Campaign on Occupational Safety (CACOS) program is to reduce work-related exposures, injuries, illnesses, and fatalities.
Mương và Hố Đào (Trenching & Excavation)
Mương và Hố Đào
Tôi có bị nguy hiểm không?
Tất cả hố đào đều nguy hiểm vì chúng vốn đã không vững chắc. Nếu hẹp, chúng sẽ có thêm nguy cơ thiếu dưỡng khí, nhiều hơi độc, và đọng nước. Nếu không dùng hệ thống bảo vệ trong khi làm việc ở những mương hoặc hố đào, bạn có thể bị ngộp thở, hít chất độc, hoả hoạn, chết đuối hoặc bị đè do sập hố.
Nguy Hiểm Về Điện (Electrical Hazards)
Những Nguy Hiểm Của Điện Lực
Điện lực đã trở thành một nhu cầu thiết yếu trong đời sống tân tiến ngày nay. Có lẽ vì là thành phần quá quen thuộc ở xung quanh chúng ta, nên điện không được đối sử thân trọng với vị thế của nó. ( >> Xem tiếp...)
Những Hóa Chất Nguy Hiểm (Hazardous Substances)
1. Amiăng (Asbestos): Amiăng là tên của một nhóm khoáng chất tự nhiên có trong vài loại sản phẩm, như vật liệu xây dựng và thắng xe, chất chống cao nhiệt và gặm mòn
2. Hơi Nhựa Đường (Asphalt Fumes): Hơi nhựa đường rất độc hại khi hít phải. Hơi nhựa đường có chứa chất gây ung thư. (>> Xem tiếp...)
3. Tinh thể Silica (Crystalline Silica): Silica ảnh hưởng nghiêm trọng đến gần 2 triệu công nhân Hoa Kỳ, bao gồm 100,000 công nhân làm những việc nguy hiểm như phun chất để mài mòn, xưởng đúc, cắt đá, khoan đá, khai thác đá và đào hầm hố. (>> Xem tiếp...)
4. Khí Etelen (Ethylene Oxide): là một loại khí ga không màu, dễ cháy, ở nhiệt độ trên 51.3 oF (10.7 oC) và có mùi như chất êthe (ether) khi ở mức độc hại (>> Xem tiếp...)
5. Chì (Lead): Chì đã gây độc hại cho công nhân cả ngàn năm nay. Trong ngành xây dựng, mối nguy hiểm do chì thường xẩy ra trong nghề hàn chì, lắp ống nước, và sơn phết. (>> Xem tiếp...)
Đề Phòng Té Rớt (Fall Protection)
Tôi Có Bị Nguy Hiểm Không?
Trong một hoàn cảnh kiến trúc nào đó, hầu như chỗ làm việc nào cũng có những cạnh, bờ tường, khoảng trống trên vách hoặc dưới sàn không được che chắn, bảo vệ. Vì không được bảo vệ nên thương tích từ bong gân tới bất tỉnh, tử vong do té rới hoặc vật liệu rơi trúng có thể xẩy ra. (>> Đọc tiếp ...)
HIV/AIDS prevention
What is HIV?
HIV - Human Immunodeficiency Virus - is a virus that kills your body's "CD4 cells." CD4 cells (also called T-helper cells) help your body fight off infection and disease.
What is AIDS?
AIDS - Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome - is a disease you get when HIV destroys your body's immune system. Normally, your immune system helps you fight off illness. When your immune system fails you can become very sick and die.
- By having unprotected sex - sex without a condom - with someone who has HIV. The virus can be in an infected person's blood, semen, or vaginal secretions and can enter your body through tiny cuts or sores in your skin, or in the lining of your vagina, penis, rectum, or mouth.
- By sharing a needle and syringe to inject drugs or sharing drug equipment used to prepare drugs for injection with someone who has HIV.
- From a blood transfusion or blood clotting factor that you got before 1985. (But today it is unlikely you could get infected that way because all blood in the United States has been tested for HIV/AIDS.
- Babies born to women with HIV also can become infected during pregnancy, birth, or breast-feeding (breast-milk).
- By working with or being around someone who has HIV
- From sweat, spit, tears, clothes, drinking fountain, phones, toilet seats, or through everyday things like sharing a meal
- From insect bites or stings
- From donating blood
- From a closed-mouth kiss (but there is a very small chance of getting it from open-mouthed or "French" kissing with an infected person because of possible blood contact.)
Hoa can I protect myself?
Don't share needles and syringes used to inject drugs, steroids, vitamins, or for tattooing or body piercing. Also, don't share equipment ("works") used to prepare drugs to be injected. Many people have been infected with HIV, hepatitis, and other germs this way. Germs from an infected person can stay in a needle and then be injected directly into the next person who uses the needle.
- The surest way to avoid transmission of sexually transmitted diseases is to abstain from sexual intercourse, or to be in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and you know is uninfected.
- For persons whose sexual behaviors place them at risk for STDs, correct and consistent use of the male latex condom can reduce the risk of STD transmission. However, no protective method is 100 percent effective, and condom use cannot guarantee absolute protection against any STD. The more sex partners you have, the greater your chances are of getting HIV or other diseases passed through sex.
- Condoms lubricated with spermicides are no more effective than other lubricated condoms in protecting against the transmission of HIV and other STDs. In order to achieve the protective effect of condoms, they must be used correctly and consistently. Incorrect use can lead to condom slippage or breakage, thus diminishing their protective effect. Inconsistent use, e.g., failure to use condoms with every act of intercourse, can lead to STD transmission because transmission can occur with a single act of intercourse.
- Don't share razors or toothbrushes because of the possibility of contact with blood.
- If you are pregnant or think you might be soon, talk to a doctor or your local health department about being tested for HIV. Drug treatments are available to help you and reduce the chance of passing HIV to your baby if you have it.
How can I protect myself?
- Don't share needles and syringes used to inject drugs, steroids, vitamins, or for tattooing or body piercing. Also, don't share equipment ("works") used to prepare drugs to be injected. Many people have been infected with HIV, hepatitis, and other germs this way. Germs from an infected person can stay in a needle and then be injected directly into the next person who uses the needle.
- The surest way to avoid transmission of sexually transmitted diseases is to abstain from sexual intercourse, or to be in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and you know is uninfected.
- For persons whose sexual behaviors place them at risk for STDs, correct and consistent use of the male latex condom can reduce the risk of STD transmission. However, no protective method is 100 percent effective, and condom use cannot guarantee absolute protection against any STD. The more sex partners you have, the greater your chances are of getting HIV or other diseases passed through sex.
- Condoms lubricated with spermicides are no more effective than other lubricated condoms in protecting against the transmission of HIV and other STDs. In order to achieve the protective effect of condoms, they must be used correctly and consistently. Incorrect use can lead to condom slippage or breakage, thus diminishing their protective effect. Inconsistent use, e.g., failure to use condoms with every act of intercourse, can lead to STD transmission because transmission can occur with a single act of intercourse.
- Don't share razors or toothbrushes because of the possibility of contact with blood.
- If you are pregnant or think you might be soon, talk to a doctor or your local health department about being tested for HIV. Drug treatments are available to help you and reduce the chance of passing HIV to your baby if you have it.
* (The above information is taken from the Center for Disease Control website www.cdc.gov)
Facts about HIV/AIDS
Latex condoms
Latex condoms, when used consistently and correctly, are highly effective in preventing the transmission of HIV.
Half under 25
Half of all new HIV infections in the U.S. are believed to occur in people under the age of 25.
Pregnancy
If you are an HIV-positive pregnant woman, you can prevent giving HIV to your baby.
1 in 4
Approximately 1 in 4 HIV infected persons don't know they are infected
Upcoming Events
Upcoming Events
TBA
Chương Trình An Toàn và Sức Khoẻ Lao Ðộng
Chương Trình An Toàn và Sức Khoẻ Lao Ðộng
Vài Nét Về Chương Trình
Chương trình này được tài trợ bởi cơ quan An Tồn và Sức Khoẻ Lao Động (Cơ quan OSHA www.osha.gov) kể từ năm 2000. Chương trình hiện tại được thực hiện ở 6 thành phố: Raleigh/Charlotte, NC; Springfield, MA; Philadelphia, PA; Houston, TX and St. Louis, MO.
Chúng tôi đã hợp tác với những cơ quan để cung cấp những buổi huấn luyện cho cơng nhân và chủ nhân như Bộ Lao Động của tiểu bang North Carolina, Bộ Lao Động của tiểu bang Massachusetts, Cơ quan OSHA Regional III ở Philadelphia và Regional IV ở Atlanta.
I) Tài Liệu
A) Tài Liệu Về Ngành Tổng Quát
1. Đó là Luật
6. Bảo Vệ Mắt
8. Bảo Vệ Công Nhân Vị Thành Niên
9. Quyền Lợi Của Công Nhân Tại Nơi Làm Việc
12. Đề Phòng Té Ngã 2 3 4
14. Hoa Chất Nguy Hiểm ở Tiệm Nail
16. Tiếp Xúc Hoa Chất Nguy Hiểm
17. Các Chất Dể Cháy
20. Bệnh Lao Phổi
21. Bề Mặt Làm Việc
22. Xử Lý Vật Liệu
23. Chương Trình An Toàn và Sức Khoẻ
24. Khoá và Niêm
B) Videos Về Ngành Tổng Quát (Vietnamese)
3. Bảo Vệ Mắt
4. Bề Mặt Làm Việc và Đề Phòng Té Ngã
5. Chứng Bệnh Đau Nhức Do Công Việc
6. Đề Phòng Máy Móc
7. Đề Phòng Thương Tích Nơi Lưng
C) Tài Liệu Về Ngành Xây Dựng
1. Cần Cẩu
6. Bị Đập Trúng
9. Giàn Giáo
11. Bị Đập Trúng
13. Hơi Nhựa Đường (Asphalt Fumes)
14. Chất Silica
D) Video Về Ngành Xây Dựng
16. Bị Đập Trúng
17. Nguy Hiểm Về Điện
18. Đề Phong Té Ngã
19. Mương và Hố Đào
20. Những Chất Nguy Hiểm
E) Tài Liệu Về Phịng Ngừa Đại Dịch Cúm cho Cơ Sở Thương Mại
Tài Liệu Huấn Luyện (đang soạn thảo)
F) Những kết nối khác
1. Cơ Quan OSHA: www.osha.gov
2. Bộ Lao Động North Carolina: www.nclabor.com
3. Trang mạng về đại dịch Flu: www.pandemicflu.gov
4. Uỷ Ban An Tồn và Sức Khoẻ North Carolina: www.safetync.org
Health Awareness Program for Immigrants (HAPI)
Health Awareness Program for Immigrants (HAPI)
What is HAPI?
The Health Awareness Program for Immigrants (HAPI) aims to educate the Vietnamese community about the risks of chronic diseases, the benefits of preventive health and how to access locally available services. Our current focus is on cervical and breast cancers, the two most common cancers among Vietnamese women. Early detection through Pap smears and mammograms can discover these two silent killers before they become life-threatening, yet an alarmingly low number of Vietnamese women are screened on a regular basis.
Target Population
Medically-underserved Vietnamese Americans with:
- Low-income status
- Limited-English proficiency: 91% of Vietnamese speak a language other than English at home, while 61% are limited English proficient, the highest rate among Asian Americans.
- Uninsured: Thirty-two percent of Vietnamese adults are uninsured. Even Vietnamese women who have insurance, either employer-based or Medicare, are not aware of laws that mandate insurance coverage for regular and appropriate cancer screenings and do not utilize the services. Lack of adequate insurance is a symptom of the low-level jobs that many Vietnamese take due to low levels of English proficiency and a lack of job skills.
- Lack of transportation
HAPI aims to raise awareness of these serious health risks among the Vietnamese community, we offer a myriad of services:
Education
Outreach workers teach local community members about chronic diseases such as breast and cervical cancers, their risk of developing these diseases, preventive health, early detection and healthy lifestyle choices through one-on-one education, workshops and community events. We have recently added other common chronic diseases among Vietnamese elders such as colon, lung, liver cancers and diabetes.
Referral
Community members are directed to local service providers for Pap smears, mammograms and other early detection tests. Project staff act as Navigators to help individuals: a. Schedule appointments b. Arrange transportation and interpretation c. Follow up after the appointment to answer any questions, explain test results and help with future appointments or additional tests
Support
Women are encouraged to join a local women’s group to meet other community members, talk and socialize through monthly events. Cervical cancer and breast cancer are the two most common cancers among Vietnamese women. Early detection through Pap smears and mammograms can discover these two silent killers before they become life-threatening, yet an alarmingly low number of Vietnamese women have these screening tests on a regular basis. The goal of HAPI is to educate Vietnamese women about their risk for cervical and breast cancers, the benefits of preventive screenings and where to go for affordable screening services.
Donate
Thank you for helping BPSOS meet urgent needs TODAY and empower Vietnamese communities for TOMORROW.
To Donate Now:
Online 
Click here to donate with credit/debit cards or electronic checking account transfers through the Network for Good.
By Mail with Check or Money Order
Make your check or money order payable to Boat People SOS and mail it to:
Boat People SOS - HAPI
6066 Leesburg Pike Suite 100
Falls Church, VA 22041-2220
By Corporate Match
Contact your personnel department; your employer might add value to your own gift.
BPSOS is not a government agency; our programs and services are made possible primarily through the generosity of individuals, businesses and foundations who give voluntary gifts of time and money. Contributions to Boat People SOS (BPSOS), a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Services Code, are tax deductible. Please be sure to request a receipt and include your full name and address.
Partnerships
University of South Alabama Mitchell Cancer Institute
Bayou La Batre Rural Health Clinic
State of Alabama Department of Public Health
Belle Reve New Orleans
Gateway to Care
Asian American Health Coalition – HOPE Clinic
CRG Medical Foundation for Patient Safety
Planned Parenthood of Southern New Jersey
Holy Cross Hospital
Women Cancer Control Program
Suburban Outpatient Medical Center
Bailey’s (Fairfax County Health Department, community healthcare network)
Women'sInova Fairfax Hospital Women's
Medical Faculty Association- The George Washington University (Mammography Mobile Van)
Preventative Health Education Materials
Early Detection Can Save Your Life.
Both cervical and breast cancers take years to develop and may not cause pain or other symptoms to alert you until it is very advanced. If cervical cancer is discovered in the early stages, it is almost 100% curable. If breast cancer is discovered before it has spread to other parts of your body, the 5-year survival rate is 97% (meaning that 97% of people are still alive five years later). There are two main tests for these cancers: the Pap smear test for cervical cancer and the mammogram for breast cancer.
Empower yourself with knowledge.
We have compiled the cultural and ethnic-specific research and materials to help you learn about ways you can learn more about cancer prevention and awareness.
Basic cancer information
Both cervical and breast cancers take years to develop and may not cause pain or other symptoms to alert you until it is very advanced. If cervical cancer is discovered in the early stages, it is almost 100% curable. If breast cancer is discovered before it has spread to other parts of your body, the 5-year survival rate is 97% (meaning that 97% of people are still alive five years later). There are two main tests for these cancers: the Pap smear test for cervical cancer and the mammogram for breast cancer.
Have your first Pap smear test when you turn 21, or sooner if you are sexually active.
During a Pap smear, your doctor will look at your cervix and take a small sample of cells to send to a lab. Some women feel a slight cramping sensation when their cervix is touched. The Pap smear is extremely important for finding abnormalities in the cells in the cervix; these may be signs of infection or disease.
Have your first mammogram when you turn 40.
A mammogram is an x-ray of the breast. During a mammogram, your breast is placed between two plates and compressed. Sometimes this can be uncomfortable, but it only lasts a few seconds and is necessary to take a good picture.
What is cancer?
Cancer is a disease that happens when cells in part of your body begin to grow out of control. These cells are abnormal because the DNA has been damaged. DNA is what tells a cell how to grow and what to do in your body. Often these abnormal cells will spread to other parts of your body and start growing there (metastasis). Each type of cancer acts differently and requires different treatment. Cancer is usually named after the part of the body where it develops.
Why am I at risk?
Two main reasons why you are at risk--especially for breast and cervical cancers--are that you are a woman and you are growing older. Your risk increases more if you have a family history of cancer, you have been exposed to STDs or you do not have any children. Your risk may increase even higher if you smoke, are overweight or do not exercise.
What types of cancer am I at risk for?
Vietnamese women should be especially concerned about cervical cancer and breast cancer. Cervical cancer is cancer of the cervix. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus (womb). Breast cancer is cancer of the breast. Most breast cancers form in ducts, the passages that carry milk from lobules (milk-producing glands) to the nipples.
Importance of Early Screening and Detection
Referral and Screenings
Breast Cancer
With prevalence of 37.5 per 100,000, breast cancer is the second leading cause of death (after cervical cancer) among Vietnamese women. Like other Asian women, Vietnamese women have low participation rate in breast cancer screening programs.
Cervical Cancer
According to a 1998 nationwide study by the National Cancer Institute, Vietnamese women had 5 times the risk of developing cervical cancer compared to Caucasian women, and very few Vietnamese women knew about Pap smear tests. In 1992, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that only 47% of Vietnamese women had ever received a Pap test, compared to 91% from a national sample. Similarly, six additional studies on a combined 2,374 Vietnamese women showed that only 48% received a Pap test in 1997 . Unfortunately, this rate has remained the same over the past few years.
There are many contributing factors to this stagnancy of numbers. Lack of information is often compounded by misperception and tradition; the National Cancer Institute report noted that many Vietnamese believed that cervical cancer only befell “bad” women. Other inhibiting factors included language barrier, financial hardship, and transportation problems.
Colon Cancer
According to the National Cancer Institute, Colon cancer is the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer in the US. Vietnamese, among other minority populations, are at greater risk of dying of colorectal cancer because they receive preventative screening less often than whites. While most Vietnamese have heard of colorectal cancer, many are not aware of colorectal cancer screenings, such as colorectal polyp, sigmoidoscopy, and colonoscopy.
Liver Cancer
In the United States half of the individuals infected with Hepatitis B, the leading cause of liver cancer, are Asian-American. The likelihood of having Hepatitis B is 13 times higher for the Vietnamese population than for the Caucasian population. The Asian Liver Center at Stanford University estimates that 7% of APAs [Asian and Pacific Americans] have Hepatitis B. This rate is significantly high when compared to 0.1% of Caucasians and Hispanics and 0.5% of African-Americans that are infected with the virus. Vietnamese-American men have the highest rates of liver cancer for all racial/ethnic groups. The incidence of liver cancer among Vietnamese-Americans is 11.3 times higher than the rate for Caucasian Americans.
Although no completely accurate screening test exists for liver cancer, there are effective vaccinations for Hepatitis B, the common cause of liver cancer. According to a survey by the Asian and Pacific Islander American Health Forum, immunization rates for Hepatitis B among children are very low. In a survey conducted in three metropolitan cities showed that Vietnamese children having all three Hepatitis B vaccinations ranged from 10% to 38%. When childhood vaccinations are ignored or incomplete, these children will grow into adolescence and adulthood without the protection of vaccinations and are too old to benefit from infant programs and school entry laws.
Adults can still protect themselves from Hepatitis B by using the vaccinations, but many adults are not aware of the prevalence and therefore do not inquire about the vaccinations.
Upcoming Events
Monthly Workshops
Falls Church, VA
Enrollment for Medicare Part D & Benefit Quick Link screening
November 29th and 30th from 9:30am-4:00pm
Hepatitis B&C Screening
November 16th from 9am-12pm
December 7th from 9am-12pm
Mammography Screening
December 11th from 9am-3pm
January 31st from 9am to 3pm
Christmas Workshop
December 19th
Adelphi, MD
Outreach at Giac Hoang Temple
11/18/2007 from 12-2:00P
Mammogram Screening Day
11/29/2007 from 12:00P-3:00P
Women’s Group Meetings
The women’s group in Atlanta, Springfield, and Camden meets monthly to discuss strategies to reduce cancer disparities in their communities. If you would like to join our women’s support group, please contact your local contact coordinator to find out more.
Community Events
Frequently Asked Questions
"I am over 21 years old and not sexually active. Do I need to have a Pap smear test?"
Yes.
Even if you have never had sex or are not now sexually active, you should still see your doctor and be tested to make sure everything is okay.
"I'm not old enough to need mammograms. Do I need to do any other tests for breast cancer?"
Yes.
In your 20s and 30s, you can do breast self-exams (BSE) once a month and you should also have a clinical breast exam (CBE) done by your doctor as part of your annual exam.
"I don't have insurance - how can I afford these tests?"
Each state has a Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program that offers low-cost or free Pap smears and mammograms to local women. For more information on how to get these screenings, contact BPSOS.
"Does Medicare or other insurance pay for these tests?"
Medicare will pay for 80% to 100% of cancer screenings, including mammograms, clinical breast exams, Pap smears and pelvic exams. Many private insurance companies will cover cancer screenings but it varies from company to company. The time frame for these exams also depends on each company - some will cover one each year, others one every two years. For help understanding your benefits, contact BPSOS.
Services at BPSOS
Education
Learn about breast and cervical cancer, your risk, preventive health, early detection and healthy lifestyle choices through one-on-one education, workshops and community events.
Referral
Receive cancer screenings regardless of your insurance or income. We can help:
- Schedule appointments
- Arrange transportation and interpretation
- Follow up after the appointment to make sure your questions are answered, you understand your test results and help you with future appointments
Program Activities
Seniors and Trauma Survivors Empowerment Program (STEP)
Weekly Activities
The STEP Team partners with community and faith-based organizations to conduct classes on basic computer skills and wellness. Below is a list of our ongoing classes offered at our offices:
Wednesday Classes
- Tai Chi | 2:00 - 3:00PM
- Computer Class for Seniors | 5:30 - 7:00PM
Please contact Dao-Tien Ha at daotien.ha@bpsos.org for more information on weekly outreach activities.
Outreach Activities
In efforts to provide education and support for senior citiziens and community members, STEP coordinates outreach activities to equip attendees with knowledge and resources with the end goal of providing them with a path towards self-sufficiency. Please find more information about our events and contact Dao-Tien Ha at daotien.ha@bpsos.org for details.
DC Field Trip (2007)
May 9, 2008
10:30AM to 3:00PM
Mother's Day
Glen Carlyn Park
April 11, 2008
9:30AM to 4:00PM
Meet at BPSOS Falls Church Offices
6066 Leesburg Pike Ste 100
Falls Church, VA 22041
Flyer: Viet
April 4, 2008 (*Photos from this event uploaded here!*)
1:30PM to 2:45PM
Fourth Annual Vietnamese American Student Conference (VASCON)
Mental Health in the Vietnamese American Community
presented by Hien Dang & Duong Hoang
Room ICC 115
Georgetown University | Washington, D.C.
Family Support Group Workshops
Everyone is welcomed to engage in workshops on mental health and taking care of aging loved ones. These workshops are conducted in Vietnamese and English. Please contact Xuan Le at xuan.le@bpsos.org for more information.
March 16, 2008
12:30PM to 2:00PM
Workshop | Multi-generational & Cultural Differences
Hoa Nghiem Temple
9105 Backlick Rd.
Fort Belvoir, VA 22060
February 3, 2008
1:30 to 3:00PM
Workshop | Alzheimer's Disease
Holy Martyr's Vietnamese Catholic Church
915 Wakefield St. Arlington, VA 22204
Health Awareness Program for Immigrants (HAPI)
Screenings and Referrals
The HAPI Team conducts preventative health education workshops and coordinates screenings and referrals for hepatitis B & C, cervical cancer, and breast cancer awareness. If you'd like to learn more about you can qualify for these screenings, please contact Alexia Dinh Christie at alexia.dinh@bpsos.org or Hang Duong at hang.duong@bpsos.org.
May 15, 2008
Bone Density Tests
Flier: Viet
April 4, 2008
3:00PM to 4:15PM
Fourth Annual Vietnamese American Student Conference (VASCON)
The Unequal Burden of Cancer Rates Among Vietnamese Americans presented by Alexia Dinh
Room ICC 102
Georgetown University | Washington, D.C.
March 26, 2008
Hepatitis B & C Screening
Flyer: Viet
March 5, 2008
Hepatitis B & C Screening
Flyer: Viet
March 4, 2008
HAPI Mammogram Screening
February 20, 2008
Hepatitis B & C Screening
Flyer: Viet
Photo Gallery
Photo Gallery
Take a sneak peek at our most recent events in these photo galleries:
STEP Family Support Group Workshop (Feb 2008)
STEP Cherry Blossom Festival (Apr 2008)
Outreach (2007)
DC Field Trip (2007)
Newsletters
Newsletters
The Health and Mental Health Department has a plethora of community education workshops and outreach activities going on each month. Our monthly newsletters include event details and articles to keep you updated on our ongoing activities.
Tiếng Việt
Become a Volunteer
Have a Heart for the Community?
Explore the vast volunteer opportunities at the BPSOS Health and Mental Health Department and learn how you can contribute to strengthening and advancing the Vietnamese American community through preventative health education and community outreach.
Trung Thu Outreach (2007)
Want to work with the coolest kids on the block?
The Seniors and Trauma Survivors Empowerment Program (STEP) works with Vietnamese senior citizens and assists them in screening and applying for Medicare benefits, holds classes on well-being and aging, and equips seniors with resources and tools to assist their peers.
Contact Xuan Le at 703.538.2190 ext 206 or email xuan.le@bpsos.org for more information.
Interested in educating the community about preventative health?
The Health Awareness Program for Immigrants (HAPI) provides screenings and referrals for hepatitis B & C, mammograms, and cervical cancer.
Contact Quynh Nguyen at 281.530.1366 or email quynh.nguyen@bpsos.org for more information.
Want to be an advocate for workers' rights and occupational safety?
The Community Awareness Campaign on Occupational Safety (CACOS) strives to educate the community about workers' rights and occupational safety in a culturally appropriate fashion.
Contact Hien Phan at 704.596.2157 or email hien.phan@bpsos.org for more information.
Testimony
Straight from the Heart
At the Health and Mental Health Department, we are committed to ensuring that our clients' needs and concerns are addressed--that is why we dedicate our time and energy into our monthly and weekly activities to engage our senior citizens with educational and social events to allow them to dialogue and build a community of support for one another.
Peer Companion Graduation (2007)
Below are some testimonies from our participants:
on "Trung Thu" (August Moon Festival)
Thoughts from a Peer Companion: Eng
Useful Links
Useful Links
Links on Mental Health
Asian American Psychological Association
National Library of Medicine – Asian American Health
National Institutes of Health's "Asian American Health" website
Links on Aging
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Aging
National Institute of Health (NIH) Senior Health
Links on Hepatitis B & C
Asian American Hepatitis B Program NYC
Hepatitis Foundation International
Immunization Action Coalition/Hepatitis B Coalition
Links on Preventative Health Education
Jade Ribbon Campaign - Asian Liver Center at Stanford Univeristy
Links on Workplace Safety
Occupational Safety and Health Admin (OSHA)
Safety and Health Council of NC