Capacity building across the lifespan: Community-Based Participatory Research with two generations of Cambodian American women

1.Background: Two decades after resettlement to the U.S., Cambodian refugees continue to evidence disease and disability rates in excess of the general population, yet underutilize primary care and mental health services. Community-based participatory research (CBPR) may reduce health disparities among hard-to-reach populations and Asian Americans. 2.Purpose: Research scientists partnered with agencies serving Cambodians in Oakland, CA, to prioritize health issues and conduct a pilot intervention project. 3.Methods: We used a grassroots CBPR approach centered on a group of Cambodian women, aged 21-66, representing two generations in the U.S., supported by a community advisory board. The Cambodian Women's Group (CWG) met weekly to identify the root causes of poor health for Cambodians and develop ways to improve the community's health. 4.Results: The grassroots approach and bi-generational design of the project entailed challenges. However, the CWG identified a constellation of health issues with trauma as a central root cause, or social determinant. Traumas included both those experienced under the Khmer Rouge and new traumas due to community violence, poverty and social isolation. Generation gap, substance use and gambling contributed to poor health. Interventions included community gardens, a museum exhibit celebrating the community's strengths, and a New Year's celebration. 5.Discussion: The project resulted in both novel analysis of social determinants of health, and novel means to improve health. By building leadership among two generations of Cambodian community women, improving links between community members and partner agencies and developing community capacities for health programming, the project established a base for community development.