FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Christine Hsu, media@sfhepbfree.org or
Angela Pang, apang@asianweek.com, (415) 321-5894
SAN FRANCISCO, CA, December 16, 2009 – Celebrate Asian Heritage with the Golden State Warriors as they take on Yi Jianlian and the New Jersey Nets on Friday January 22, 2010. A portion of each ticket purchase will be donated to San Francisco Hep B Free – a citywide effort to screen and vaccinate all Asian and Pacific Islanders for hepatitis B.
Asian themed cultural performances will take place prior to the game and during half time. Cultural exhibits will also be on display in the arena. Attendees who purchase the special Asian Heritage Night tickets will receive a free commemorative Asian Heritage Night T-shirt.
For the first time ever, the Warriors are hosting a design contest for the back of the event’s t-shirt. Designs will be accepted through December 29, 2009, with the winner being announced during the week of January 4. Submissions can be sent to specialevents@gs-warriors.com. For rules and further information visit: http://www.nba.com/warriors/tickets/asian_heritage_tshirt_contest.html
"I'm excited to have the Warriors on board in our fight against Hep B and encourage the entire community to come to the game!" said Assemblywoman Fiona Ma (D-San Francisco).
Hepatitis B causes up to 80 percent of all liver cancers, and disproportionately affects 1 in 10 Asian and Pacific Islanders. A safe and effective vaccine prevents infection and liver cancer caused by hepatitis B. The most important step towards eliminating hepatitis B disease is by being tested for infection in your doctor's office.
"We look forward to Asian Heritage Night at Oracle Arena and the excitement that is generated by this terrific event on an annual basis," said Warriors President Robert Rowell. "We've been fortunate to host similar events the previous four years and each one has been a resounding success from an entertainment standpoint. The unparalleled excitement of Warriors Basketball is unique and a great way to spend time together with family, friends and associates in a fun atmosphere. We’re thrilled that Asian Heritage Night has become a tradition and part of that electricity at Oracle Arena."
Community supporters for the event include Asian Americans for Community Outreach, Asian American Literary Review, Asian American Theater Company, Asian Firefighters Association, Asian Law Caucus, Asian Liver Center at Stanford, Asian and Pacific Islander Wellness Center, Asian Peace Officers Association, AsianWeek Foundation, Association of Asian Pacific Community Health Organizations, California Dragon Boat Association, Cathay Post #384 Chinese American Veterans, Chinese Real Estate Association of America, Center for Lao Studies, Filipino American Arts Exposition, Hyphen Magazine, Indonesian Professionals Association, Laotian American National Alliance, Kearny Street Workshop, Nakayoshi Young Professionals, National Association of Asian American Professionals, Organization of Chinese Americans- San Francisco, Wells Fargo Asian Connection, Young Filipino Professionals Association, and ViveSF.com.
To Purchase tickets to the game visit:
https://www.gs-warriors.com/forms/secure/fct_asianamerican10.html
Groups of 15+ can contact Troy Corti for additional savings and Scoreboard Recognition at 510-986-5408 or tacorti@gs-warriors.com
###
ABOUT Hepatitis B
Asian and Pacific Islanders (APIs) are disproportionately impacted by Hepatitis B. It is a disease of the liver caused by HBV, a virus often called a "silent killer" because it can cause liver cancer, cirrhosis or liver failure without producing symptoms. San Francisco has the highest liver cancer rate in the nation, and 80% of liver cancer in APIs is caused by HBV. But it's preventable with a simple vaccine.
ABOUT San Francisco Hep B Free
www.sfhepbfree.org
San Francisco Hep B Free is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare and community organizations. The program's goal is to make San Francisco a hepatitis B-free city by (1) creating public and healthcare provider awareness about the importance of testing & vaccinating APIs for hepatitis B; (2) promoting routine HBV screenings and vaccinations within the primary care medical community; and (3) facilitating access to treatment for chronically infected individuals. The campaign's theme is "B a Hero. See a doctor who tests for Hepatitis B."
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Monday, December 14, 2009
City-wide Campaign Becomes National Hep B Model
By Fia Curley
Article on U.S. HHS Office of Minority Health website
Download PDF | OMH Homepage screenshot | OMH Article screenshot
National recognition, high-profile partnerships, in-kind donations and non-stop media buzz have the grassroots Hep B Free San Francisco Campaign looking attractive.
But if the campaign somehow lost momentum and funding dried up, organizers on the volunteer task force say they would still be working to spread the message: Hepatitis B can be eradicated.
"Nobody came into this campaign because of money," said Dr. Samuel So, director of the Asian Liver Center at Stanford University. "A lot of people don't actually do anything unless they're funded. We feel this is the right thing to do for the community and whether we get funded or not, we're going to do it."
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, at SF hep B Free press conference.
The Jade Ribbon campaign started in San Francisco in 2001 with the goal of testing and vaccinating San Francisco residents for hepatitis B. Since then the campaign has morphed into Hep B Free SF, spread in popularity in the Bay Area and across the country and gained national recognition, highlighted by a press conference in October with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Deputy Assistant Secretary for Minority Health, Dr. Garth Graham. Federal representatives and government officials are now looking to replicate the program in cities with high Asian-American populations.
Hepatitis B is a virus that infects the liver and can be passed through bodily fluids via blood transfusions, sexual intercourse or tattoos or acupuncture with unclean equipment.
The virus causes yellowing of the skin, aching muscles and joints, fatigue and loss of appetite. But for people with chronic Hepatitis B, which often doesn't cause symptoms and is transmitted from mother to child, the end result can be liver cancer and death.
The campaign's intention has been to emphasize the positive messages surrounding testing through diverse outlets in order to drive more people to their own doctors for screening, vaccination and monitoring.
And now in the second phase of Hep B Free, organizers are encouraging people to visit a doctor who tests for Hep B and touting a clinician honor roll - to harness doctors' competitive nature - that will advertise a list of doctors who perform the test in major area newspapers.
Tests and subsequent vaccinations create the possibility of curbing the No. 1 health disparity in the Asian-American community.
"We really need to seize on this opportunity to address this health problem, which in the past has never received any attention," said So, a surgeon and self-proclaimed "passionate, evidenced-based advocate," who's found that some health professionals are not aware of what tests to administer for Hepatitis B.
"We have to go back to the ABC's of Hepatitis," he said. "This is a disease we can't assume they know."
The fact that not all clinicians in the Bay Area are aware of the need for Hepatitis B screening has become increasingly apparent to Dr. Lisa Tang, a primary care physician for Kaiser Permanente, who balances more than two thousand patients and has worked with the campaign for the past two years.
"It's not a standard of care with hepatitis B screenings and that's why people are not doing it," Tang said. "The risk to liver cancer is real, but is it on people's radar?"
And although Tang readily admits to moving at frenetic pace, she's determined to tackle the topic of physician awareness as she heads the clinicians outreach committee.
"Personally as an Asian American I find l do have a responsibility to do this and to make this change," Tang said. "Being a physician you change life one at a time, but for me to be able to act as a physician leader and change the behavior of my colleagues and to change how they practice — I think that implication can do so much good for the common good."
However, eradicating the virus from the entire city has taken more than a few partners in the health community.
"A lot of initiatives only work with community health centers but that's not representative of the whole community," So said. "You need everybody involved. We reached across the aisle to all the groups. So in a way it really created the opportunity for city-wide implementation and adoption."
Partnerships include the San Francisco Giants, City College of San Francisco, DAE Advertising, and Office of California Assemblywoman Fiona Ma. About 40 percent of partners are not health care organizations.
The campaign was modeled after a social movement with intentional decentralized collaboration and an approach that would be embraced by Asian cultures, according to Janet Zola, health promotions specialist of Communicable Diseases for the San Francisco Health Department.
"The thing about Hep B is we have everything we need to put this in a box," said Zola, founder of the San Francisco Immunization Coalition. "What we're lacking is public awareness by the general population of why this is important. It was clear we needed everyone involved to take true ownership of this."
With at least five major cities poised to adopt and adapt the Hep B Free campaign, original members in San Francisco are looking toward the challenge of bringing clinicians on board to enact their multifaceted approach.
"We had a much bigger picture from the beginning," said Ted Fang, director of Asian Week Foundation and fellow board member whose expertise resides in diversity issues. "We want the onus to be on the patients and the clinicians."
As billboards, bus ads and radio PSAs remind residents to ‘Be a Hero,' Fang continues to see the possibilities of the movement. From the original small dinner of ideas and listening ears in 2007 to use of the Hep B Free logo and adoption by other cities, the goal of making San Francisco the first Hepatitis B-free city is something he sees as obtainable.
"I do see it as a turning point in the history of the Asian-American community," he said, although he is quick to add, "we're not done yet - the great thing about this project is that it has an ending."
While the campaign seems to be "taking on a life of its own" Fang continues to remind people that this is a goal they must all work toward.
"We can eradicate this disease; we will eradicate this disease; someday it will be eradicated," Fang said. "When hepatitis B is eradicated, there will be a book written. And when that book is written it will say it started with the Asian-American community."
Fia Curley is a writer for the OMHRC. Comments? Email: fcurley@omhrc.gov
Article on U.S. HHS Office of Minority Health website
Download PDF | OMH Homepage screenshot | OMH Article screenshot
National recognition, high-profile partnerships, in-kind donations and non-stop media buzz have the grassroots Hep B Free San Francisco Campaign looking attractive.
But if the campaign somehow lost momentum and funding dried up, organizers on the volunteer task force say they would still be working to spread the message: Hepatitis B can be eradicated.
"Nobody came into this campaign because of money," said Dr. Samuel So, director of the Asian Liver Center at Stanford University. "A lot of people don't actually do anything unless they're funded. We feel this is the right thing to do for the community and whether we get funded or not, we're going to do it."
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, at SF hep B Free press conference.The Jade Ribbon campaign started in San Francisco in 2001 with the goal of testing and vaccinating San Francisco residents for hepatitis B. Since then the campaign has morphed into Hep B Free SF, spread in popularity in the Bay Area and across the country and gained national recognition, highlighted by a press conference in October with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Deputy Assistant Secretary for Minority Health, Dr. Garth Graham. Federal representatives and government officials are now looking to replicate the program in cities with high Asian-American populations.
Hepatitis B is a virus that infects the liver and can be passed through bodily fluids via blood transfusions, sexual intercourse or tattoos or acupuncture with unclean equipment.
The virus causes yellowing of the skin, aching muscles and joints, fatigue and loss of appetite. But for people with chronic Hepatitis B, which often doesn't cause symptoms and is transmitted from mother to child, the end result can be liver cancer and death.
The campaign's intention has been to emphasize the positive messages surrounding testing through diverse outlets in order to drive more people to their own doctors for screening, vaccination and monitoring.
And now in the second phase of Hep B Free, organizers are encouraging people to visit a doctor who tests for Hep B and touting a clinician honor roll - to harness doctors' competitive nature - that will advertise a list of doctors who perform the test in major area newspapers.
Tests and subsequent vaccinations create the possibility of curbing the No. 1 health disparity in the Asian-American community.
"We really need to seize on this opportunity to address this health problem, which in the past has never received any attention," said So, a surgeon and self-proclaimed "passionate, evidenced-based advocate," who's found that some health professionals are not aware of what tests to administer for Hepatitis B.
"We have to go back to the ABC's of Hepatitis," he said. "This is a disease we can't assume they know."
The fact that not all clinicians in the Bay Area are aware of the need for Hepatitis B screening has become increasingly apparent to Dr. Lisa Tang, a primary care physician for Kaiser Permanente, who balances more than two thousand patients and has worked with the campaign for the past two years.
"It's not a standard of care with hepatitis B screenings and that's why people are not doing it," Tang said. "The risk to liver cancer is real, but is it on people's radar?"
And although Tang readily admits to moving at frenetic pace, she's determined to tackle the topic of physician awareness as she heads the clinicians outreach committee.
"Personally as an Asian American I find l do have a responsibility to do this and to make this change," Tang said. "Being a physician you change life one at a time, but for me to be able to act as a physician leader and change the behavior of my colleagues and to change how they practice — I think that implication can do so much good for the common good."
However, eradicating the virus from the entire city has taken more than a few partners in the health community.
"A lot of initiatives only work with community health centers but that's not representative of the whole community," So said. "You need everybody involved. We reached across the aisle to all the groups. So in a way it really created the opportunity for city-wide implementation and adoption."
Partnerships include the San Francisco Giants, City College of San Francisco, DAE Advertising, and Office of California Assemblywoman Fiona Ma. About 40 percent of partners are not health care organizations.
The campaign was modeled after a social movement with intentional decentralized collaboration and an approach that would be embraced by Asian cultures, according to Janet Zola, health promotions specialist of Communicable Diseases for the San Francisco Health Department.
"The thing about Hep B is we have everything we need to put this in a box," said Zola, founder of the San Francisco Immunization Coalition. "What we're lacking is public awareness by the general population of why this is important. It was clear we needed everyone involved to take true ownership of this."
With at least five major cities poised to adopt and adapt the Hep B Free campaign, original members in San Francisco are looking toward the challenge of bringing clinicians on board to enact their multifaceted approach.
"We had a much bigger picture from the beginning," said Ted Fang, director of Asian Week Foundation and fellow board member whose expertise resides in diversity issues. "We want the onus to be on the patients and the clinicians."
As billboards, bus ads and radio PSAs remind residents to ‘Be a Hero,' Fang continues to see the possibilities of the movement. From the original small dinner of ideas and listening ears in 2007 to use of the Hep B Free logo and adoption by other cities, the goal of making San Francisco the first Hepatitis B-free city is something he sees as obtainable.
"I do see it as a turning point in the history of the Asian-American community," he said, although he is quick to add, "we're not done yet - the great thing about this project is that it has an ending."
While the campaign seems to be "taking on a life of its own" Fang continues to remind people that this is a goal they must all work toward.
"We can eradicate this disease; we will eradicate this disease; someday it will be eradicated," Fang said. "When hepatitis B is eradicated, there will be a book written. And when that book is written it will say it started with the Asian-American community."
Fia Curley is a writer for the OMHRC. Comments? Email: fcurley@omhrc.gov
Monday, December 7, 2009
Walgreens To Help Promote Hep B Awareness in Stores Citywide
-100,000 informational fliers to be distributed in pharmacies-
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Download PDF
Contact: Christine Hsu, media@sfhepbfree.org or
Angela Pang, apang@asianweek.com, (415) 321-5894
SAN FRANCISCO, CA, December 7, 2009 – San Francisco Hep B Free is partnering with Walgreens to encourage all clinicians citywide to routinely screen their patients for hepatitis B. Beginning Dec. 7, Walgreens will distribute 100,000 informational hepatitis B fliers at more than 60 pharmacy locations throughout the city.
When patients pick up their orders, pharmacists will include the two-sided flyer with their prescription. One side of the flyer contains facts about the disease, while the other side lists several public testing sites and Walgreens locations that provide vaccinations. Those Walgreens locations include 745 Clement St., 1580 Valencia St., Suite 101, 2690 Mission St., and 5260 Diamond Heights.
"As we enter the next phase of the San Francisco Hep B Free Campaign - to influence clinician behavior to screen and test all Asian and Pacific Islanders for hepatitis B - we want to encourage the public to be involved by asking their clinicians about this disease. Having informational flyers about Hep B in Walgreens pharmacy bags will help do so," said Mitch Katz, MD, Director of the SF Department of Public Health. "We applaud Walgreens for their support of the campaign and hope that we can one day eradicate this disease."
"Hepatitis is a very serious disease that many people aren't even aware of," said Jeff Wong, Walgreens Pharmacy Manager. "In a city where more than one third of its residents are Asian, Walgreens is proud to be supporting a campaign that aims to raise awareness about this vaccine preventable disease."
Hepatitis B causes up to 80 percent of all liver cancers and disproportionately affects 1 in 10 Asian and Pacific Islanders. A safe and effective vaccine prevents infection and liver cancer caused by hepatitis B.
"With the cold and flu season underway, more patients will head to the pharmacy and will receive the hepatitis B flyers in their bags," said Dr. Lisa Tang of Kaiser Permanente who chairs the SF Hep B Free Clinicians Outreach Committee. "Our hope is that people will read the flyer - 'Be a hero. See a doctor who tests for hepatitis B' and ask their clinician for more information. As more and more patients discuss this with their clinicians, they will hopefully be motivated to learn more about the disease."
###
ABOUT Hepatitis B
Asian and Pacific Islanders (APIs) are disproportionately impacted by Hepatitis B. It is a disease of the liver caused by HBV, a virus often called a "silent killer" because it can cause liver cancer, cirrhosis or liver failure without producing symptoms. San Francisco has the highest liver cancer rate in the nation, and 80% of liver cancer in APIs is caused by HBV. But it's preventable with a simple vaccine.
ABOUT San Francisco Hep B Free
www.sfhepbfree.org
San Francisco Hep B Free is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare and community organizations. The program's goal is to make San Francisco a hepatitis B-free city by (1) creating public and healthcare provider awareness about the importance of testing & vaccinating APIs for hepatitis B; (2) promoting routine HBV screenings and vaccinations within the primary care medical community; and (3) facilitating access to treatment for chronically infected individuals. The campaign's theme is "B a Hero. See a doctor who tests for Hepatitis B."
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Download PDF
Contact: Christine Hsu, media@sfhepbfree.org or
Angela Pang, apang@asianweek.com, (415) 321-5894
SAN FRANCISCO, CA, December 7, 2009 – San Francisco Hep B Free is partnering with Walgreens to encourage all clinicians citywide to routinely screen their patients for hepatitis B. Beginning Dec. 7, Walgreens will distribute 100,000 informational hepatitis B fliers at more than 60 pharmacy locations throughout the city.
When patients pick up their orders, pharmacists will include the two-sided flyer with their prescription. One side of the flyer contains facts about the disease, while the other side lists several public testing sites and Walgreens locations that provide vaccinations. Those Walgreens locations include 745 Clement St., 1580 Valencia St., Suite 101, 2690 Mission St., and 5260 Diamond Heights."As we enter the next phase of the San Francisco Hep B Free Campaign - to influence clinician behavior to screen and test all Asian and Pacific Islanders for hepatitis B - we want to encourage the public to be involved by asking their clinicians about this disease. Having informational flyers about Hep B in Walgreens pharmacy bags will help do so," said Mitch Katz, MD, Director of the SF Department of Public Health. "We applaud Walgreens for their support of the campaign and hope that we can one day eradicate this disease."
"Hepatitis is a very serious disease that many people aren't even aware of," said Jeff Wong, Walgreens Pharmacy Manager. "In a city where more than one third of its residents are Asian, Walgreens is proud to be supporting a campaign that aims to raise awareness about this vaccine preventable disease."
Hepatitis B causes up to 80 percent of all liver cancers and disproportionately affects 1 in 10 Asian and Pacific Islanders. A safe and effective vaccine prevents infection and liver cancer caused by hepatitis B.
"With the cold and flu season underway, more patients will head to the pharmacy and will receive the hepatitis B flyers in their bags," said Dr. Lisa Tang of Kaiser Permanente who chairs the SF Hep B Free Clinicians Outreach Committee. "Our hope is that people will read the flyer - 'Be a hero. See a doctor who tests for hepatitis B' and ask their clinician for more information. As more and more patients discuss this with their clinicians, they will hopefully be motivated to learn more about the disease."
###
ABOUT Hepatitis B
Asian and Pacific Islanders (APIs) are disproportionately impacted by Hepatitis B. It is a disease of the liver caused by HBV, a virus often called a "silent killer" because it can cause liver cancer, cirrhosis or liver failure without producing symptoms. San Francisco has the highest liver cancer rate in the nation, and 80% of liver cancer in APIs is caused by HBV. But it's preventable with a simple vaccine.
ABOUT San Francisco Hep B Free
www.sfhepbfree.org
San Francisco Hep B Free is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare and community organizations. The program's goal is to make San Francisco a hepatitis B-free city by (1) creating public and healthcare provider awareness about the importance of testing & vaccinating APIs for hepatitis B; (2) promoting routine HBV screenings and vaccinations within the primary care medical community; and (3) facilitating access to treatment for chronically infected individuals. The campaign's theme is "B a Hero. See a doctor who tests for Hepatitis B."
Friday, November 6, 2009
"Hepatitis B Hero Mobile" hits the road to promote hepatitis B awareness among Asian Americans
Published by the SF Examiner - November 6, 2009
SF Ethnic Communities | Miki Garcia
Subaru of America has donated a 2010 Subaru Legacy Sedan to the San Francisco Hepatitis B Free campaign in the fight against hepatitis B disease among the Asian American community. The first partnership of its kind, the "Hep B Hero Mobile" Legacy Sedan promotes the campaign theme which calls on everyone to "B a Hero" in preventing liver cancer and hepatitis B with a traveling road show throughout the Bay Area and a social media campaign that will outreach to Asian Americans nationwide.
"Subaru is leading the pack among car companies as the first to support a health initiative campaign for the Asian American community and their example is one to be followed," said Ted Fang, AsianWeek Foundation Director and SF Hepatitis B Free Steering Committee Member. "With their generosity we are now able to expand our efforts beyond San Francisco and reach a national audience which is invaluable to us."
Asian and Pacific Islanders (API) bear a disproportionate burden of liver disease and liver cancer as a result of undetected chronic hepatitis B infection. One in 10 Asians and Asian Americans are chronically infected with hepatitis B and are four times more likely to die from liver cancer if unmonitored, compared to the general population. Hepatitis B is not only vaccine preventable, but it also has effective treatments that can slow or prevent liver damage caused by the disease. Early detection of hepatitis B will benefit the infected individual as well as prevent the infection from spreading.
www.subaru.com
www.asianweek.com
SF Ethnic Communities | Miki Garcia
Subaru of America has donated a 2010 Subaru Legacy Sedan to the San Francisco Hepatitis B Free campaign in the fight against hepatitis B disease among the Asian American community. The first partnership of its kind, the "Hep B Hero Mobile" Legacy Sedan promotes the campaign theme which calls on everyone to "B a Hero" in preventing liver cancer and hepatitis B with a traveling road show throughout the Bay Area and a social media campaign that will outreach to Asian Americans nationwide."Subaru is leading the pack among car companies as the first to support a health initiative campaign for the Asian American community and their example is one to be followed," said Ted Fang, AsianWeek Foundation Director and SF Hepatitis B Free Steering Committee Member. "With their generosity we are now able to expand our efforts beyond San Francisco and reach a national audience which is invaluable to us."
Asian and Pacific Islanders (API) bear a disproportionate burden of liver disease and liver cancer as a result of undetected chronic hepatitis B infection. One in 10 Asians and Asian Americans are chronically infected with hepatitis B and are four times more likely to die from liver cancer if unmonitored, compared to the general population. Hepatitis B is not only vaccine preventable, but it also has effective treatments that can slow or prevent liver damage caused by the disease. Early detection of hepatitis B will benefit the infected individual as well as prevent the infection from spreading.
www.subaru.com
www.asianweek.com
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Speaker Pelosi Says Hepatitis B Prevention at Core of Healthcare Reform
November 4, 2009
Connie Zheng | AsianWeek.com
SAN FRANCISCO - In her first public appearance since the health care reform bill rollout last Thursday, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi addressed the need for community-based health care reform in a press conference at the Chinese Hospital on Oct. 31, highlighting the San Francisco Hep B Free campaign as a model for the nation.
With one in ten Asian American Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) chronically infected with the hepatitis B virus, Hep B Free is a citywide campaign to turn San Francisco into the nation's first city free of the disease.
Joined by local, state and federal officials, community and health care leaders, citizen activists, corporate executives and family associations, Pelosi lauded the Hep B Free campaign's success as an inspiration and blueprint for the national campaign.
"It certainly would not be possible without the local leadership as models for us in San Francisco," Pelosi said. "The campaign has led thousands of individuals to get screened and treated."
Hepatitis B is responsible for up to 80 percent of all liver cancers worldwide, and AAPIs have the highest rates of liver cancer for any racial or ethnic group.
"The Hep B campaign hits the core of our national drive for health insurance," Pelosi said. "The hepatitis B virus is preventable and treatable. Yet too many in the AAPI community across the nation suffer from this disease. We must protect everyone from hepatitis B."
Pelosi underscored the need for culturally sensitive health care that ends discrimination against individuals with pre-existing conditions, such as hepatitis B. The end of this type of discrimination is one of the proposed bill's three main principles, along with affordable health care and fiscal responsibility.
Assemblywoman Fiona Ma has chronic hepatitis B infection and is a leading advocate for legislation to reduce the disease.
"Hepatitis B is a pre-existing condition," Ma said. "We desperately need policy reform to make sure nobody gets kicked off health insurance for pre-existing conditions."
Congresswoman Jackie Speier (D-CA) echoed Pelosi's sentiment regarding health care discrimination at the press conference.
"It is very appropriate that we send a message to everyone in the city that you have nothing to fear about hepatitis B," Speier said. "Pre-existing conditions will no longer be a fear for anyone, whether they have hepatitis B, HIV, cancer, or bunions - you name it."
Additionally, Pelosi discussed how the proposed reforms will remove health disparities among ethnic communities, such as hepatitis B, the greatest health disparity for Asians.
"With reform in place when we pass this legislation, the AAPI community will have access to treatments, the vaccine, screening and care that will help end those disparities, keep families healthy, and ensure our success in fighting hepatitis B and making San Francisco a hepatitis B-free city."
The spotlight on health disparities affecting ethnic communities, such as hepatitis B for Asian Americans, is part of a growing national awareness from health care reform to the White House.
On Oct. 14, President Obama re-established the advisory commission and White House initiative created by President Clinton ten years ago to address concerns affecting AAPIs. While acknowledging the many contributions of AAPI communities to the country, Obama recognized the challenges faced by AAPIs in health disparities like hepatitis B.
"The more than 16 million AAPIs across our country have helped build a strong and vibrant America," Obama said. "It's tempting, given the strengths of AAPI communities, for us to buy into the myth of the ‘model minority,' and to overlook the very real challenges that certain AAPI communities are facing: from health disparities like higher rates of diabetes and hepatitis B."
Under the House Democrats' proposed health care legislation, the government will give new grants for prevention and wellness services to communities with special emphasis on health disparities, expand coverage for vaccines, and eliminate co-payments and deductibles for preventive services such as the hepatitis B vaccine.
"We will have an opportunity in San Francisco and across the country to change our health insurance system for the better, whether it's making this city as a hepatitis B-free city or expanding access to quality, affordable, accessible health care for all Americans," Pelosi said.
Dr. Garth Graham, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Minority Health for the Department of Health and Human Services, said the department supported a national strategy aiming to address the issues of prevention of new infections by promoting screening, immunization, education; promotion of early detection; appropriate follow-up and clinical management of individuals with chronic hepatitis B infection with linguistically and culturally appropriate prevention care and treatment; and increased awareness and support of hepatitis B and liver cancer research among national and state policymakers.
"We recognize chronic hepatitis B's disproportionate impact on the AAPI community is a national problem," Graham said.
Since the San Francisco Hep B Free Campaign's inception in 2007, the campaign has developed significant partnerships with over 50 public and private health care organizations, businesses, and educational institutions, as well as Major League Baseball's San Francisco Giants. It has created seven low-cost public access hepatitis B screening and vaccination sites.
"Our goal is to try to get everyone screened and tested in San Francisco," Ma said. "We wanted to spread the message we can eradicate hepatitis B, just like smallpox. But we had no money when we started, just a goal. Now two and a half years later, all our community partners, public and private hospitals, doctors, insurance and pharmaceutical companies, non-profit organizations and the community have gotten together to ensure that everyone can get screened, tested and treated here in San Francisco."
The campaign's success has inspired other communities to follow its model.
"It is a model that is being replicated in San Mateo, San Jose, Orange County and Los Angeles," Ma said. "We believe that we are on the way to a movement."
Graham lauded the campaign's use of community partnerships, academia, community-based organizations and local government to increase education and awareness and recommended adoption of its model as part of a national strategy.
"The San Francisco Hep B Free Campaign is an excellent demonstration of what the Department of Health and Human Services is trying to see happen across the country," Graham said. "We want to broaden this model, use it as a model of community engagement and go across the country in terms of national strategy."
Pelosi added that it was no surprise the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention would look to San Francisco for leadership and to take its success as a blueprint for the national campaign.
Officials and leaders urged the public to get tested, treated and vaccinated for hepatitis B at the press conference.
"We are so fortunate in spite of the extraordinary infection rates that there is a hepatitis B vaccine that the World Health Organization has called the world's first anti-cancer vaccine," said Senator Mark Leno.
"It is treatable, it is preventable, we can eradicate it," Ma said. "We just need everybody's help."
David Chiu, San Francisco Board of Supervisors President, voiced the hope that the day will soon come when San Francisco will be a hepatitis B-free city.
"We are all here today united in the Hep B Free Campaign," Chiu said. "Chinatown in San Francisco is the Asian American capital of not just our city, not just California, but the entire country. Half of the deaths that arise from hepatitis B come from our community. This is our disease, this is our campaign, and this is our cause."
Pelosi urged everyone to "take the (Hep B Free) campaign theme to heart: B a Hero. See a doctor who tests for Hepatitis B."
******************
About San Francisco Hep B Free Campaign:
The San Francisco Hep B Free Campaign is a "first-in-the-nation" effort calling on the collaboration of a wide spectrum of organizations to educate the public about the health risks of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and to promote routine HBV screenings and vaccinations for the city's Asian and Pacific Islander (API) population. For more information, please visit www.sfhepbfree.org.
About the Hepatitis B Virus (HBV):
Hepatitis B is a serious disease of the liver caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) that can lead to acute illness and chronic infection including cirrhosis, liver failure or liver cancer. It is a silent killer affecting approximately 1.4 million Americans, of which more than half are of API descent.
HBV is an epidemic within San Francisco's API community. An estimated one in ten APIs have an undiagnosed infection. APIs are up to 100 times more likely to suffer from chronic HBV infection and four times more likely to die from liver cancer compared with the general population. Hepatitis B is responsible for 80 percent of all liver cancers among APIs, who have the highest rates of liver cancer for any racial or ethnic group. San Francisco's liver cancer rate is the highest in the U.S.
Hepatitis B is 100 times more infectious than HIV and is easily transmitted - from an infected mother to her child at birth, through unprotected sex or by contaminated blood.
For more information, please visit www.sfhepbfree.org.
Connie Zheng | AsianWeek.com
SAN FRANCISCO - In her first public appearance since the health care reform bill rollout last Thursday, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi addressed the need for community-based health care reform in a press conference at the Chinese Hospital on Oct. 31, highlighting the San Francisco Hep B Free campaign as a model for the nation.
With one in ten Asian American Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) chronically infected with the hepatitis B virus, Hep B Free is a citywide campaign to turn San Francisco into the nation's first city free of the disease.
Joined by local, state and federal officials, community and health care leaders, citizen activists, corporate executives and family associations, Pelosi lauded the Hep B Free campaign's success as an inspiration and blueprint for the national campaign.
"It certainly would not be possible without the local leadership as models for us in San Francisco," Pelosi said. "The campaign has led thousands of individuals to get screened and treated."
Hepatitis B is responsible for up to 80 percent of all liver cancers worldwide, and AAPIs have the highest rates of liver cancer for any racial or ethnic group.
"The Hep B campaign hits the core of our national drive for health insurance," Pelosi said. "The hepatitis B virus is preventable and treatable. Yet too many in the AAPI community across the nation suffer from this disease. We must protect everyone from hepatitis B."
Pelosi underscored the need for culturally sensitive health care that ends discrimination against individuals with pre-existing conditions, such as hepatitis B. The end of this type of discrimination is one of the proposed bill's three main principles, along with affordable health care and fiscal responsibility.
Assemblywoman Fiona Ma has chronic hepatitis B infection and is a leading advocate for legislation to reduce the disease.
"Hepatitis B is a pre-existing condition," Ma said. "We desperately need policy reform to make sure nobody gets kicked off health insurance for pre-existing conditions."
Congresswoman Jackie Speier (D-CA) echoed Pelosi's sentiment regarding health care discrimination at the press conference.
"It is very appropriate that we send a message to everyone in the city that you have nothing to fear about hepatitis B," Speier said. "Pre-existing conditions will no longer be a fear for anyone, whether they have hepatitis B, HIV, cancer, or bunions - you name it."
Additionally, Pelosi discussed how the proposed reforms will remove health disparities among ethnic communities, such as hepatitis B, the greatest health disparity for Asians.
"With reform in place when we pass this legislation, the AAPI community will have access to treatments, the vaccine, screening and care that will help end those disparities, keep families healthy, and ensure our success in fighting hepatitis B and making San Francisco a hepatitis B-free city."
The spotlight on health disparities affecting ethnic communities, such as hepatitis B for Asian Americans, is part of a growing national awareness from health care reform to the White House.
On Oct. 14, President Obama re-established the advisory commission and White House initiative created by President Clinton ten years ago to address concerns affecting AAPIs. While acknowledging the many contributions of AAPI communities to the country, Obama recognized the challenges faced by AAPIs in health disparities like hepatitis B.
"The more than 16 million AAPIs across our country have helped build a strong and vibrant America," Obama said. "It's tempting, given the strengths of AAPI communities, for us to buy into the myth of the ‘model minority,' and to overlook the very real challenges that certain AAPI communities are facing: from health disparities like higher rates of diabetes and hepatitis B."
Under the House Democrats' proposed health care legislation, the government will give new grants for prevention and wellness services to communities with special emphasis on health disparities, expand coverage for vaccines, and eliminate co-payments and deductibles for preventive services such as the hepatitis B vaccine.
"We will have an opportunity in San Francisco and across the country to change our health insurance system for the better, whether it's making this city as a hepatitis B-free city or expanding access to quality, affordable, accessible health care for all Americans," Pelosi said.
Dr. Garth Graham, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Minority Health for the Department of Health and Human Services, said the department supported a national strategy aiming to address the issues of prevention of new infections by promoting screening, immunization, education; promotion of early detection; appropriate follow-up and clinical management of individuals with chronic hepatitis B infection with linguistically and culturally appropriate prevention care and treatment; and increased awareness and support of hepatitis B and liver cancer research among national and state policymakers.
"We recognize chronic hepatitis B's disproportionate impact on the AAPI community is a national problem," Graham said.
Since the San Francisco Hep B Free Campaign's inception in 2007, the campaign has developed significant partnerships with over 50 public and private health care organizations, businesses, and educational institutions, as well as Major League Baseball's San Francisco Giants. It has created seven low-cost public access hepatitis B screening and vaccination sites.
"Our goal is to try to get everyone screened and tested in San Francisco," Ma said. "We wanted to spread the message we can eradicate hepatitis B, just like smallpox. But we had no money when we started, just a goal. Now two and a half years later, all our community partners, public and private hospitals, doctors, insurance and pharmaceutical companies, non-profit organizations and the community have gotten together to ensure that everyone can get screened, tested and treated here in San Francisco."
The campaign's success has inspired other communities to follow its model.
"It is a model that is being replicated in San Mateo, San Jose, Orange County and Los Angeles," Ma said. "We believe that we are on the way to a movement."
Graham lauded the campaign's use of community partnerships, academia, community-based organizations and local government to increase education and awareness and recommended adoption of its model as part of a national strategy.
"The San Francisco Hep B Free Campaign is an excellent demonstration of what the Department of Health and Human Services is trying to see happen across the country," Graham said. "We want to broaden this model, use it as a model of community engagement and go across the country in terms of national strategy."
Pelosi added that it was no surprise the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention would look to San Francisco for leadership and to take its success as a blueprint for the national campaign.
Officials and leaders urged the public to get tested, treated and vaccinated for hepatitis B at the press conference.
"We are so fortunate in spite of the extraordinary infection rates that there is a hepatitis B vaccine that the World Health Organization has called the world's first anti-cancer vaccine," said Senator Mark Leno.
"It is treatable, it is preventable, we can eradicate it," Ma said. "We just need everybody's help."
David Chiu, San Francisco Board of Supervisors President, voiced the hope that the day will soon come when San Francisco will be a hepatitis B-free city.
"We are all here today united in the Hep B Free Campaign," Chiu said. "Chinatown in San Francisco is the Asian American capital of not just our city, not just California, but the entire country. Half of the deaths that arise from hepatitis B come from our community. This is our disease, this is our campaign, and this is our cause."
Pelosi urged everyone to "take the (Hep B Free) campaign theme to heart: B a Hero. See a doctor who tests for Hepatitis B."
******************
About San Francisco Hep B Free Campaign:
The San Francisco Hep B Free Campaign is a "first-in-the-nation" effort calling on the collaboration of a wide spectrum of organizations to educate the public about the health risks of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and to promote routine HBV screenings and vaccinations for the city's Asian and Pacific Islander (API) population. For more information, please visit www.sfhepbfree.org.
About the Hepatitis B Virus (HBV):
Hepatitis B is a serious disease of the liver caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) that can lead to acute illness and chronic infection including cirrhosis, liver failure or liver cancer. It is a silent killer affecting approximately 1.4 million Americans, of which more than half are of API descent.
HBV is an epidemic within San Francisco's API community. An estimated one in ten APIs have an undiagnosed infection. APIs are up to 100 times more likely to suffer from chronic HBV infection and four times more likely to die from liver cancer compared with the general population. Hepatitis B is responsible for 80 percent of all liver cancers among APIs, who have the highest rates of liver cancer for any racial or ethnic group. San Francisco's liver cancer rate is the highest in the U.S.
Hepatitis B is 100 times more infectious than HIV and is easily transmitted - from an infected mother to her child at birth, through unprotected sex or by contaminated blood.
For more information, please visit www.sfhepbfree.org.
Monday, November 2, 2009
PRESS RELEASE: Subaru Leads the Pack in the Fight Against Hepatitis B Among Asian Americans
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Julie Sellew, Niwa Public Relations
(508) 238-6547
julie@niwapr.com
"Hep B Hero Mobile" Hits the Road to Promote Hep B Awareness
San Mateo Hep B Free To Launch November 4, 2009
November 2, 2009 - Subaru of America, Inc. is taking an innovative approach in the fight against hepatitis B disease among the Asian American community with its donation of a 2010 Subaru Legacy Sedan to the San Francisco Hep B Free campaign. The first partnership of its kind, the Legacy will serve as a vehicle, both literally and figuratively, to promote awareness on hepatitis B and liver cancer with a traveling road show throughout California’s Bay Area and a social media campaign that will outreach to Asian Americans nationwide.
"Subaru is leading the pack among car companies as the first to support a health initiative campaign for the Asian American community and their example is one to be followed," said Ted Fang, AsianWeek Foundation Director and SF Hep B Free Steering Committee Member. "With their generosity we are now able to expand our efforts beyond San Francisco and reach a national audience which is invaluable to us."
Appropriately dubbed the "Hep B Hero Mobile" the new model 2010 Subaru Legacy Sedan is detailed in full-color artwork and promotes the campaign theme which calls on everyone to "B a Hero" in preventing liver cancer and hepatitis B. The vehicle made its debut last month at the Annual Be A Hero Gala, a benefit fundraiser for San Francisco Hep B Free. It will continue to be featured at prominent Bay Area Asian American-oriented events including the kick-off event for the newly launched San Mateo Hep B Free, a replication of the successful SF Hep B Free program, on November 4th, 2009 at the Hong Kong Flower Lounge in Millbrae, CA. To RSVP, please contact (650) 312-1663 or smhepfree@gmail.com
"Subaru is committed to helping educate the community and increase awareness through the Hep B Free movement," said Todd Lawrence, promotions and sponsorship manager, Subaru of America, Inc. "The Asian American/Pacific Islander community is one of the most vibrant and fastest growing in America. We are proud to be part of the community’s good health initiatives and continued development."
Asian and Pacific Islanders (API) bear a disproportionate burden of liver disease and liver cancer as a result of undetected chronic hepatitis B infection. One in 10 Asians and Asian Americans are chronically infected with hepatitis B and are four times more likely to die from liver cancer if unmonitored, compared to the general population, making it the greatest health disparity affecting API populations both locally and worldwide. Hepatitis B is not only vaccine preventable, but it also has effective treatments that can slow or prevent liver damage caused by the disease. Early detection of hepatitis B will benefit the infected individual as well as prevent the infection from spreading.
The AsianWeek Foundation
www.asianweek.com
The AsianWeek Foundation is a founding Steering Committee member of the Hep B Free campaign and focuses on community organizing and strategic partnerships. AsianWeek Foundation’s purpose is to bring together the diverse segments, organizations and individuals of the Asian Pacific/Islander community. AsianWeek Foundation also organizes the Asian Heritage Street Celebration, a celebration of traditional and contemporary culture in Asian Pacific America. It is the largest one-day gathering of Asians in America. www.asianfairsf.com
Subaru of America, Inc.
www.subaru.com
Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of nearly 600 dealers across the United States. Subaru boasts the most fuel efficient line-up of all-wheel drive products sold in the market today based on Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fuel economy standards. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero- landfill production plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be designated a backyard wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation.
###
Contact:
Julie Sellew, Niwa Public Relations
(508) 238-6547
julie@niwapr.com
"Hep B Hero Mobile" Hits the Road to Promote Hep B Awareness
San Mateo Hep B Free To Launch November 4, 2009
November 2, 2009 - Subaru of America, Inc. is taking an innovative approach in the fight against hepatitis B disease among the Asian American community with its donation of a 2010 Subaru Legacy Sedan to the San Francisco Hep B Free campaign. The first partnership of its kind, the Legacy will serve as a vehicle, both literally and figuratively, to promote awareness on hepatitis B and liver cancer with a traveling road show throughout California’s Bay Area and a social media campaign that will outreach to Asian Americans nationwide.
"Subaru is leading the pack among car companies as the first to support a health initiative campaign for the Asian American community and their example is one to be followed," said Ted Fang, AsianWeek Foundation Director and SF Hep B Free Steering Committee Member. "With their generosity we are now able to expand our efforts beyond San Francisco and reach a national audience which is invaluable to us."
Appropriately dubbed the "Hep B Hero Mobile" the new model 2010 Subaru Legacy Sedan is detailed in full-color artwork and promotes the campaign theme which calls on everyone to "B a Hero" in preventing liver cancer and hepatitis B. The vehicle made its debut last month at the Annual Be A Hero Gala, a benefit fundraiser for San Francisco Hep B Free. It will continue to be featured at prominent Bay Area Asian American-oriented events including the kick-off event for the newly launched San Mateo Hep B Free, a replication of the successful SF Hep B Free program, on November 4th, 2009 at the Hong Kong Flower Lounge in Millbrae, CA. To RSVP, please contact (650) 312-1663 or smhepfree@gmail.com
"Subaru is committed to helping educate the community and increase awareness through the Hep B Free movement," said Todd Lawrence, promotions and sponsorship manager, Subaru of America, Inc. "The Asian American/Pacific Islander community is one of the most vibrant and fastest growing in America. We are proud to be part of the community’s good health initiatives and continued development."
Asian and Pacific Islanders (API) bear a disproportionate burden of liver disease and liver cancer as a result of undetected chronic hepatitis B infection. One in 10 Asians and Asian Americans are chronically infected with hepatitis B and are four times more likely to die from liver cancer if unmonitored, compared to the general population, making it the greatest health disparity affecting API populations both locally and worldwide. Hepatitis B is not only vaccine preventable, but it also has effective treatments that can slow or prevent liver damage caused by the disease. Early detection of hepatitis B will benefit the infected individual as well as prevent the infection from spreading.
The AsianWeek Foundation
www.asianweek.com
The AsianWeek Foundation is a founding Steering Committee member of the Hep B Free campaign and focuses on community organizing and strategic partnerships. AsianWeek Foundation’s purpose is to bring together the diverse segments, organizations and individuals of the Asian Pacific/Islander community. AsianWeek Foundation also organizes the Asian Heritage Street Celebration, a celebration of traditional and contemporary culture in Asian Pacific America. It is the largest one-day gathering of Asians in America. www.asianfairsf.com
Subaru of America, Inc.
www.subaru.com
Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of nearly 600 dealers across the United States. Subaru boasts the most fuel efficient line-up of all-wheel drive products sold in the market today based on Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fuel economy standards. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero- landfill production plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be designated a backyard wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation.
###
Pelosi Press Conference - The China Press (侨报）
透露医保改革新版本议案大有改善
佩洛西到中国城推广防乙肝
Download PDF | View article online
国会众议院议长佩洛西（前）在中国城东华医院参与乙肝防治的推广宣传。（侨报记者刘海平摄）
【侨报记者刘海平10月31日旧金山报道】国会众议院议长佩洛西周六上午出现在旧金山中国城的东华医院中，参与乙肝防治的推广宣传。她表示，即将于本周在众议院表决的健保改革新版本议案能够有效解决乙肝病患投保无门的状况。
国会众议员斯佩尔、州参议员兰诺、州众议员马世云、旧金山市议会主席邱信福、议员朱嘉文、“旧金山乙肝防治运动”倡导人方以代、东华医院院长何国杰、中华总会馆主席团成员、旧金山卫生部门代表云集在当日的推广会中。
全美的亚太裔民众，平均每十个人中有一人感染乙肝病毒或者患有乙肝。乙肝导致的肝癌已经成为美国亚太裔的第二号杀手。佩洛西说，毫无疑问，美国疾病与预防控制中心（CDC）将以旧金山为楷模，参照我们的成功作为一场全国性防治运动的蓝图。乙肝防治的成果让成千上万的美国人接受了检测和治疗，这也是重点所在。佩洛西还赞扬方以代等人多年来将“乙肝防治运动”推广得深入人心。
对于众议院议员们即将审阅的最新版本健保议案，佩洛西称之为“透过召开会议和征求选民意见，大有改善的版本”，新版本中规定健康保险公司不能将健康状态不佳的患者“扫地出门”，这能切实帮助乙型肝炎病患等群体。
佩洛西还提到，“公共选择”（Public Option）的提法让一些人误以为是由纳税人负担的选择，其实应该称为“消费者选择”才恰如其分，因为这是一种真正给予投保人自主权的选择。
马世云多年前检查出自己是乙肝病毒携带者后，便开始在亚太裔社区积极推广肝病的预防与治疗工作。
她期望在下次访问中国期间，有机会和中国探讨乙肝防治工作的合作前景。马世云指出，奥巴马总统提出了“健康差异” (Health Disparities)的概念，全美亚太裔的乙肝发病率如此之高，需要政府投入更多资金、给予更多关注，以及用更多的教育来消除乙肝。她认为，中国能够在帮助在美国乙肝防治的过程中扮演重要角色。
佩洛西到中国城推广防乙肝
Download PDF | View article online
国会众议院议长佩洛西（前）在中国城东华医院参与乙肝防治的推广宣传。（侨报记者刘海平摄）
【侨报记者刘海平10月31日旧金山报道】国会众议院议长佩洛西周六上午出现在旧金山中国城的东华医院中，参与乙肝防治的推广宣传。她表示，即将于本周在众议院表决的健保改革新版本议案能够有效解决乙肝病患投保无门的状况。
国会众议员斯佩尔、州参议员兰诺、州众议员马世云、旧金山市议会主席邱信福、议员朱嘉文、“旧金山乙肝防治运动”倡导人方以代、东华医院院长何国杰、中华总会馆主席团成员、旧金山卫生部门代表云集在当日的推广会中。
全美的亚太裔民众，平均每十个人中有一人感染乙肝病毒或者患有乙肝。乙肝导致的肝癌已经成为美国亚太裔的第二号杀手。佩洛西说，毫无疑问，美国疾病与预防控制中心（CDC）将以旧金山为楷模，参照我们的成功作为一场全国性防治运动的蓝图。乙肝防治的成果让成千上万的美国人接受了检测和治疗，这也是重点所在。佩洛西还赞扬方以代等人多年来将“乙肝防治运动”推广得深入人心。
对于众议院议员们即将审阅的最新版本健保议案，佩洛西称之为“透过召开会议和征求选民意见，大有改善的版本”，新版本中规定健康保险公司不能将健康状态不佳的患者“扫地出门”，这能切实帮助乙型肝炎病患等群体。
佩洛西还提到，“公共选择”（Public Option）的提法让一些人误以为是由纳税人负担的选择，其实应该称为“消费者选择”才恰如其分，因为这是一种真正给予投保人自主权的选择。
马世云多年前检查出自己是乙肝病毒携带者后，便开始在亚太裔社区积极推广肝病的预防与治疗工作。
她期望在下次访问中国期间，有机会和中国探讨乙肝防治工作的合作前景。马世云指出，奥巴马总统提出了“健康差异” (Health Disparities)的概念，全美亚太裔的乙肝发病率如此之高，需要政府投入更多资金、给予更多关注，以及用更多的教育来消除乙肝。她认为，中国能够在帮助在美国乙肝防治的过程中扮演重要角色。
Sunday, November 1, 2009
ABC 7 News – San Francisco Hep B Free – Speaker Nancy Pelosi & Assemblywoman Fiona Ma
ABC 7 News story on Speaker of the House Pelosi’s address, along with Assemblywoman Fiona Ma, on the need for community based healthcare reform highlighting the example of San Francisco Hep B Free (sfhepbfree.org), a comprehensive campaign to prevent liver cancer resulting from hepatitis B. Approximately 1 in 10 Asian American Pacific Islanders (APIs) in San Francisco has an undiagnosed case of hepatitis B. San Francisco has the highest rate of liver cancer in the nation. Assemblywoman Fiona Ma – who was born with and is chronically infected with hepatitis B. They addressed how fear of pre-existing condition exclusions discourages people from taking measures to prevent liver cancer, and how SF Hep B Free is addressing this issue.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Pelosi Remarks at Hep B Free Press Conference in San Francisco
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Contact: Brendan Daly/Nadeam Elshami/Drew Hammill, 202-226-7616
Source: http://www.house.gov/pelosi/press/releases/Oct09/hepb.html
Download PDF
Washington, D.C. – House Speaker Nancy Pelosi delivered keynote remarks at the Hep B Free Press Conference in San Francisco. Elected officials and community leaders gathered together to discuss the important work of the Hep B Free campaign at the Chinese Hospital in San Francisco. Below are the Speaker's remarks as prepared:
San Francisco has long been a model for the nation in innovation. It is a source of the latest trends in academia, science, and medicine. It is here that we can find the best hospitals and top doctors, cutting edge research and new advances in medical treatments. It is no coincidence that San Francisco and our Chinese-American community would stand as a model for the fight against Hepatitis B. It is no surprise that the CDC would look to San Francisco for leadership and tout our success as a blueprint for a national campaign. The Hep B Free effort has led thousands to get screened and treated. They’ve taken this campaign’s theme to heart – “Be a Hero” – and seen a doctor who tests for Hepatitis B.
The Hepatitis B Virus is preventable and treatable; yet too many in the Asian American/Pacific Islander community and across the country suffer from this disease. People like Assemblywoman [Fiona] Ma are living proof that we can lead healthy lives with this disease. She would also be the first to remind everyone that a vaccine exists and treatments are available. We must protect ourselves from Hepatitis B.
The Hep B Free campaign hits at the core of our national drive for health insurance reform. Serious health disparities among minority communities represent a critical challenge in the debate over reform. The Hepatitis B virus impacts the Asian American/Pacific Islander community at a higher rate than any other group in the U.S. One in 10 AAPI Americans are chronically infected with Hep B. More than half of the 1.4 million Americans infected are Asian-Pacific Islander Americans. With reform in place, the AAPI community will have access to the treatments, vaccines, screening, and care that will help end health disparities, keep families healthy, and ensure the success of the fight for a Hep B Free city.
Our health insurance reform legislation will: end discrimination for pre-existing conditions – Americans suffering with chronic conditions, like Hep B, face higher costs and less access because they have a “pre-existing condition.” With reform, this will no longer be the case. Emphasize preventive care – new grants to states to provide prevention and wellness services to communities, with a special emphasis on health disparities, expanded coverage for vaccines, eliminates co-pays and deductibles for preventive services, such as the Hepatitis B vaccine and screening. Educate patients – gives individuals and families the tools to make informed decisions about medical care, boosts access to needed treatments, ensures consumers understand the risks and rewards of preventive care and treatments. Ensure comprehensive care – Hepatitis B patients will receive the care and services they need to beat this disease, high-risk populations will have access to preventive treatments, vaccines, and screenings.
We have an opportunity – here in San Francisco and across the country – to change our health insurance system for the better. Whether it’s making this a Hep B Free city or expanding access to quality, affordable medical care for all Americans, every step forward makes a difference. Thank you for joining in this effort.
Contact: Brendan Daly/Nadeam Elshami/Drew Hammill, 202-226-7616
Source: http://www.house.gov/pelosi/press/releases/Oct09/hepb.html
Download PDF
Washington, D.C. – House Speaker Nancy Pelosi delivered keynote remarks at the Hep B Free Press Conference in San Francisco. Elected officials and community leaders gathered together to discuss the important work of the Hep B Free campaign at the Chinese Hospital in San Francisco. Below are the Speaker's remarks as prepared:
San Francisco has long been a model for the nation in innovation. It is a source of the latest trends in academia, science, and medicine. It is here that we can find the best hospitals and top doctors, cutting edge research and new advances in medical treatments. It is no coincidence that San Francisco and our Chinese-American community would stand as a model for the fight against Hepatitis B. It is no surprise that the CDC would look to San Francisco for leadership and tout our success as a blueprint for a national campaign. The Hep B Free effort has led thousands to get screened and treated. They’ve taken this campaign’s theme to heart – “Be a Hero” – and seen a doctor who tests for Hepatitis B.
The Hepatitis B Virus is preventable and treatable; yet too many in the Asian American/Pacific Islander community and across the country suffer from this disease. People like Assemblywoman [Fiona] Ma are living proof that we can lead healthy lives with this disease. She would also be the first to remind everyone that a vaccine exists and treatments are available. We must protect ourselves from Hepatitis B.
The Hep B Free campaign hits at the core of our national drive for health insurance reform. Serious health disparities among minority communities represent a critical challenge in the debate over reform. The Hepatitis B virus impacts the Asian American/Pacific Islander community at a higher rate than any other group in the U.S. One in 10 AAPI Americans are chronically infected with Hep B. More than half of the 1.4 million Americans infected are Asian-Pacific Islander Americans. With reform in place, the AAPI community will have access to the treatments, vaccines, screening, and care that will help end health disparities, keep families healthy, and ensure the success of the fight for a Hep B Free city.
Our health insurance reform legislation will: end discrimination for pre-existing conditions – Americans suffering with chronic conditions, like Hep B, face higher costs and less access because they have a “pre-existing condition.” With reform, this will no longer be the case. Emphasize preventive care – new grants to states to provide prevention and wellness services to communities, with a special emphasis on health disparities, expanded coverage for vaccines, eliminates co-pays and deductibles for preventive services, such as the Hepatitis B vaccine and screening. Educate patients – gives individuals and families the tools to make informed decisions about medical care, boosts access to needed treatments, ensures consumers understand the risks and rewards of preventive care and treatments. Ensure comprehensive care – Hepatitis B patients will receive the care and services they need to beat this disease, high-risk populations will have access to preventive treatments, vaccines, and screenings.
We have an opportunity – here in San Francisco and across the country – to change our health insurance system for the better. Whether it’s making this a Hep B Free city or expanding access to quality, affordable medical care for all Americans, every step forward makes a difference. Thank you for joining in this effort.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Brown & Toland Supports Fight Against Hepatitis B
Press Release
Brown & Toland Supports Fight Against Hepatitis B
10.30.09, 07:27 PM EDT|
|
Hepatitis B can cause liver cancer and damage, or if untreated, death. The San Francisco Hep B Free campaign, of which Brown & Toland is a part, promotes hepatitis B screening, vaccination and treatment among Asian American and Pacific Islanders (API) who are disproportionately infected. One in 10 has the virus.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: SPEAKER PELOSI ADDRESSES COMMUNITY BASED HEALTHCARE REFORM; Calls for Bay Area Businesses to Help Prevent Liver Cancer
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WHAT:
Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi will address the need for community based healthcare reform highlighting the example of San Francisco Hep B Free (sfhepbfree.org), a comprehensive campaign to prevent liver cancer resulting from hepatitis B. Approximately 1 in 10 Asian American Pacific Islanders (APIs) in San Francisco has an undiagnosed case of hepatitis B. San Francisco has the highest rate of liver cancer in the nation.
Assemblywoman Fiona Ma - who is chronically infected with hepatitis B - is among those who will join the Speaker. They will address how fear of pre-existing condition exclusions discourages people from taking measures to prevent liver cancer, and how SF Hep B Free is addressing this issue. They also will request the partnership of the Bay Area's largest and most well-known businesses in helping to address hepatitis B.
WHO:
Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi
Assemblywoman Fiona Ma, a chronic hep B patient
Congresswoman Jackie Speier
Dr. Garth Graham, Director of Office Minority Health
David Chiu, San Francisco Board of Supervisors President
Jim Wunderman, President and Chief Executive Officer, Bay Area Council
Ted Fang, AsianWeek Foundation, SF Hep B Free Campaign member
WHEN: Saturday, October 31, 10:00 a.m.
WHERE: Chinese Hospital - 845 Jackson Street, San Francisco 94133
VISUALS:
• Individuals getting tested for hepatitis B
• Colorful lion dance troupe
• Guests include House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Assemblywoman Fiona Ma
• Interviews with San Francisco Hep B Free spokespersons, physicians, Hep B
patients, community and healthcare leaders
RSVP: Ayaka Emoto
ayaka@allisonpr.com - (o): 415-277-4915 - (c): 650-339-0470
###
ABOUT HBV: APIs are disproportionately impacted by Hepatitis B. It is a disease of the liver caused by HBV, a virus often called a "silent killer" because it can cause liver cancer, cirrhosis or liver failure without producing symptoms. Eighty percent of liver cancer in APIs is caused by HBV. But it's preventable with a simple vaccine.
ABOUT SF Hep B Free: SF Hep B Free (sfhepbfree.org) is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare and community organizations. The goal of the citywide campaign is to eradicate hepatitis B in San Francisco by screening, testing and vaccinating all API residents.
WHAT:
Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi will address the need for community based healthcare reform highlighting the example of San Francisco Hep B Free (sfhepbfree.org), a comprehensive campaign to prevent liver cancer resulting from hepatitis B. Approximately 1 in 10 Asian American Pacific Islanders (APIs) in San Francisco has an undiagnosed case of hepatitis B. San Francisco has the highest rate of liver cancer in the nation.
Assemblywoman Fiona Ma - who is chronically infected with hepatitis B - is among those who will join the Speaker. They will address how fear of pre-existing condition exclusions discourages people from taking measures to prevent liver cancer, and how SF Hep B Free is addressing this issue. They also will request the partnership of the Bay Area's largest and most well-known businesses in helping to address hepatitis B.
WHO:
Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi
Assemblywoman Fiona Ma, a chronic hep B patient
Congresswoman Jackie Speier
Dr. Garth Graham, Director of Office Minority Health
David Chiu, San Francisco Board of Supervisors President
Jim Wunderman, President and Chief Executive Officer, Bay Area Council
Ted Fang, AsianWeek Foundation, SF Hep B Free Campaign member
WHEN: Saturday, October 31, 10:00 a.m.
WHERE: Chinese Hospital - 845 Jackson Street, San Francisco 94133
VISUALS:
• Individuals getting tested for hepatitis B
• Colorful lion dance troupe
• Guests include House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Assemblywoman Fiona Ma
• Interviews with San Francisco Hep B Free spokespersons, physicians, Hep B
patients, community and healthcare leaders
RSVP: Ayaka Emoto
ayaka@allisonpr.com - (o): 415-277-4915 - (c): 650-339-0470
###
ABOUT HBV: APIs are disproportionately impacted by Hepatitis B. It is a disease of the liver caused by HBV, a virus often called a "silent killer" because it can cause liver cancer, cirrhosis or liver failure without producing symptoms. Eighty percent of liver cancer in APIs is caused by HBV. But it's preventable with a simple vaccine.
ABOUT SF Hep B Free: SF Hep B Free (sfhepbfree.org) is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare and community organizations. The goal of the citywide campaign is to eradicate hepatitis B in San Francisco by screening, testing and vaccinating all API residents.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Subaru Donates 'Hep B Hero Mobile' to Support Campaign
Company Supports Asian/Pacific Islander Community in Promoting Hep B Awareness
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org
PRN Photo Desk photodesk@prnewswire.com
PRNewswire
SAN FRANCISCO
SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 15 /PRNewswire/ -- Subaru of America is joining the San Francisco Hep B Free campaign as the official vehicle and partner by donating the use of a 2010 Subaru Legacy detailed with full color artwork promoting the campaign theme which calls on everyone to "B a Hero" in preventing liver cancer and the hepatitis B disease.
(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080325/SUBARULOGO )
Hepatitis B causes up to 80 percent of all liver cancers, and disproportionately affects 1 in 10 Asian and Pacific Islanders. A safe and effective vaccine prevents infection and liver cancer caused by hepatitis B. The most important step towards eliminating hepatitis B disease is by being tested for infection in your doctor's office.
The new model 2010 Subaru Legacy Sedan is black with a cape design and features the "B" emblem of the campaign along with the Subaru logo. It will debut at the 2nd annual B a Hero Gala -- a benefit fundraiser for SF Hep B Free, the citywide campaign to screen and vaccinate all Asian and Pacific Islanders for hepatitis B. The car will be on display in front of the Empress of China on Oct 15 from 5:30 to 9pm and will be featured in prominent Bay Area Asian American oriented events including the Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival, Pistahan Parade and Festival and Autumn Moon Festival. The car will make its traveling road show debut on November 4 at the San Mateo Hep B Free launch.
"Subaru is committed to helping educate the community and increase awareness through the Hep B Free movement," said Todd Lawrence, promotions and sponsorship manager, Subaru of America, Inc. "The Asian American/Pacific Islander community is one of the most vibrant and fastest growing in America. We are proud to be part of the community's good health initiatives and continued development."
HBV is the greatest health disparity between Asians and non-Asians. One in 10 Asians are chronically infected with Hep B and are four times more likely to die from liver cancer compared with the general population. 80 percent of liver cancer worldwide is caused by chronic HBV infection. Early detection of HBV will benefit the carrier as well as prevent the infection from spreading. Hepatitis B is not only vaccine preventable, but it also has effective treatments that can slow or prevent liver damage caused by the disease.
"The Asian community draws its heritage from some of the oldest cultures in the world. Today Subaru is starting a new "legacy" with the donation of this Subaru Legacy and becoming the first car company to become a major player in the health and well-being of the growing Asian/Pacific Islander community," said Ted Fang, AsianWeek Foundation Director and SF Hep B Free Steering Committee Member.
"Thanks to Subaru's generosity, SF Hep B Free is delighted to have the hepatitis B awareness message displayed in such an innovative and fun manner," said Janet Zola, Health Prevention Specialist with the SF Dept. of Public Health and SF Hep B Free Steering Committee Member. "We are on the right path to eliminating the transmission of this very serious disease as we encourage everyone to be screened and vaccinated if they have not yet done so."
San Francisco Hep B Free
San Francisco Hep B Free is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare and community organizations. The program's goal is to make San Francisco a hepatitis B-free city by (1) creating public and healthcare provider awareness about the importance of testing & vaccinating APIS for hepatitis B; (2) promoting routine HBV screenings and vaccinations within the primary care medical community; and (3) facilitating access to treatment for chronically infected individuals. SF Hep B Free is a project of Community Initiatives, a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization.
The AsianWeek Foundation
The AsianWeek Foundation is a founding Steering Committee member of the Hep B Free campaign and focuses on community organizing and strategic partnerships. AsianWeek Foundation's purpose is to bring together the diverse segments, organizations and individuals of the Asian Pacific/Islander community. AsianWeek Foundation also organizes the Asian Heritage Street Celebration, a celebration of traditional and contemporary culture in Asian Pacific America. It is the largest one-day gathering of Asians in America. www.asianfairsf.com
Subaru of America, Inc.
Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of approximately 600 dealers across the United States. Subaru boasts the most fuel efficient line-up of all-wheel drive products sold in the market today based on Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fuel economy standards. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero- landfill production plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be designated a backyard wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. For additional information visit www.subaru.com
Contact: Angela Pang
AsianWeek Foundation
apang@asianweek.com
(415) 321-5894
SOURCE Subaru of America, Inc.
Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080325/SUBARULOGOAP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org
PRN Photo Desk photodesk@prnewswire.com
SOURCE: Subaru of America, Inc.
Web site: http://www.subaru.com/
Company News On-Call: http://www.prnewswire.com/comp/683412.html
Subaru Donates “Hep B Hero Mobile” to Support Campaign
-- Company Supports Asian/Pacific Islander Community in Promoting Hep B Awareness --
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Christine Hsu, media@sfhepbfree.org or Angela Pang, apang@asianweek.com, work: (415) 321-5894
Subaru Hep B Mobile SAN FRANCISCO, CA, October 15, 2009 - Subaru of America is joining the San Francisco Hep B Free campaign as the official vehicle and partner by donating the use of a 2010 Subaru Legacy detailed with full color artwork promoting the campaign theme which calls on everyone to "B a Hero" in preventing liver cancer and the hepatitis B disease.
Hepatitis B causes up to 80 percent of all liver cancers, and disproportionately affects 1 in 10 Asian and Pacific Islanders. A safe and effective vaccine prevents infection and liver cancer caused by hepatitis B. The most important step towards eliminating hepatitis B disease is by bring tested for infection in your doctor's office.
The new model 2010 Subaru Legacy Sedan is black with a cape design and features the "B" emblem of the campaign along with the Subaru logo. It will debut at the 2nd annual B a Hero Gala - a benefit fundraiser for SF Hep B Free, the citywide campaign to screen and vaccinate all Asian and Pacific Islanders for hepatitis B. The car will be on display in front of the Empress of China on Oct 15 from 5:30 to 9pm and will be featured in prominent Bay Area Asian American oriented events including the Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival, Pistahan Parade and Festival and Autumn Moon Festival. The car will make its traveling road show debut on November 4 at the San Mateo Hep B Free launch.
"Subaru is committed to helping educate the community and increase awareness through the Hep B Free movement," said Todd Lawrence, promotions and sponsorship manager, Subaru of America, Inc. "The Asian American/Pacific Islander community is one of the most vibrant and fastest growing in America. We are proud to be part of the community's good health initiatives and continued development.
HBV is the greatest health disparity between Asians and non-Asians. One in 10 Asians are chronically infected with Hep B and are four times more likely to die from liver cancer compared with the general population. 80 percent of liver cancer worldwide is caused by chronic HBV infection. Early detection of HBV will benefit the carrier as well as prevent the infection from spreading. Hepatitis B is not only vaccine preventable, but it also has effective treatments that can slow or prevent liver damage caused by the disease.
"The Asian community draws its heritage from some of the oldest cultures in the world. Today Subaru is starting a new "legacy" with the donation of this Subaru Legacy and becoming the first car company to become a major player in the health and well-being of the growing Asian/Pacific Islander community," said Ted Fang, AsianWeek Foundation Director and SF Hep B Free Steering Committee Member.
"Thanks to Subaru's generosity, SF Hep B Free is delighted to have the hepatitis B awareness message displayed in such an innovative and fun manner," said Janet Zola, Health Prevention Specialist with the SF Dept. of Public Health and SF Hep B Free Steering Committee Member. "We are on the right path to eliminating the transmission of this very serious disease as we encourage everyone to be screened and vaccinated if they have not yet done so."
San Francisco Hep B Free
www.sfhepbfree.org
San Francisco Hep B Free is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare and community organizations. The program's goal is to make San Francisco a hepatitis B-free city by (1) creating public and healthcare provider awareness about the importance of testing & vaccinating APIS for hepatitis B; (2) promoting routine HBV screenings and vaccinations within the primary care medical community; and (3) facilitating access to treatment for chronically infected individuals. SF Hep B Free is a project of Community Initiatives, a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization.
The AsianWeek Foundation
www.asianweek.com
The AsianWeek Foundation is a founding Steering Committee member of the Hep B Free campaign and focuses on community organizing and strategic partnerships. AsianWeek Foundation's purpose is to bring together the diverse segments, organizations and individuals of the Asian Pacific/Islander community. AsianWeek Foundation also organizes the Asian Heritage Street Celebration, a celebration of traditional and contemporary culture in Asian Pacific America. It is the largest one-day gathering of Asians in America. www.asianfairsf.com
Subaru of America, Inc.
Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of nearly 600 dealers across the United States. Subaru boasts the most fuel efficient line-up of all-wheel drive products sold in the market today based on Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fuel economy standards. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero- landfill production plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be designated a backyard wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. For additional information visit www.subaru.com
###
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Christine Hsu, media@sfhepbfree.org or Angela Pang, apang@asianweek.com, work: (415) 321-5894
Subaru Hep B Mobile SAN FRANCISCO, CA, October 15, 2009 - Subaru of America is joining the San Francisco Hep B Free campaign as the official vehicle and partner by donating the use of a 2010 Subaru Legacy detailed with full color artwork promoting the campaign theme which calls on everyone to "B a Hero" in preventing liver cancer and the hepatitis B disease.
Hepatitis B causes up to 80 percent of all liver cancers, and disproportionately affects 1 in 10 Asian and Pacific Islanders. A safe and effective vaccine prevents infection and liver cancer caused by hepatitis B. The most important step towards eliminating hepatitis B disease is by bring tested for infection in your doctor's office.
The new model 2010 Subaru Legacy Sedan is black with a cape design and features the "B" emblem of the campaign along with the Subaru logo. It will debut at the 2nd annual B a Hero Gala - a benefit fundraiser for SF Hep B Free, the citywide campaign to screen and vaccinate all Asian and Pacific Islanders for hepatitis B. The car will be on display in front of the Empress of China on Oct 15 from 5:30 to 9pm and will be featured in prominent Bay Area Asian American oriented events including the Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival, Pistahan Parade and Festival and Autumn Moon Festival. The car will make its traveling road show debut on November 4 at the San Mateo Hep B Free launch.
"Subaru is committed to helping educate the community and increase awareness through the Hep B Free movement," said Todd Lawrence, promotions and sponsorship manager, Subaru of America, Inc. "The Asian American/Pacific Islander community is one of the most vibrant and fastest growing in America. We are proud to be part of the community's good health initiatives and continued development.
HBV is the greatest health disparity between Asians and non-Asians. One in 10 Asians are chronically infected with Hep B and are four times more likely to die from liver cancer compared with the general population. 80 percent of liver cancer worldwide is caused by chronic HBV infection. Early detection of HBV will benefit the carrier as well as prevent the infection from spreading. Hepatitis B is not only vaccine preventable, but it also has effective treatments that can slow or prevent liver damage caused by the disease.
"The Asian community draws its heritage from some of the oldest cultures in the world. Today Subaru is starting a new "legacy" with the donation of this Subaru Legacy and becoming the first car company to become a major player in the health and well-being of the growing Asian/Pacific Islander community," said Ted Fang, AsianWeek Foundation Director and SF Hep B Free Steering Committee Member.
"Thanks to Subaru's generosity, SF Hep B Free is delighted to have the hepatitis B awareness message displayed in such an innovative and fun manner," said Janet Zola, Health Prevention Specialist with the SF Dept. of Public Health and SF Hep B Free Steering Committee Member. "We are on the right path to eliminating the transmission of this very serious disease as we encourage everyone to be screened and vaccinated if they have not yet done so."
San Francisco Hep B Free
www.sfhepbfree.org
San Francisco Hep B Free is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare and community organizations. The program's goal is to make San Francisco a hepatitis B-free city by (1) creating public and healthcare provider awareness about the importance of testing & vaccinating APIS for hepatitis B; (2) promoting routine HBV screenings and vaccinations within the primary care medical community; and (3) facilitating access to treatment for chronically infected individuals. SF Hep B Free is a project of Community Initiatives, a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization.
The AsianWeek Foundation
www.asianweek.com
The AsianWeek Foundation is a founding Steering Committee member of the Hep B Free campaign and focuses on community organizing and strategic partnerships. AsianWeek Foundation's purpose is to bring together the diverse segments, organizations and individuals of the Asian Pacific/Islander community. AsianWeek Foundation also organizes the Asian Heritage Street Celebration, a celebration of traditional and contemporary culture in Asian Pacific America. It is the largest one-day gathering of Asians in America. www.asianfairsf.com
Subaru of America, Inc.
Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of nearly 600 dealers across the United States. Subaru boasts the most fuel efficient line-up of all-wheel drive products sold in the market today based on Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fuel economy standards. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero- landfill production plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be designated a backyard wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. For additional information visit www.subaru.com
###
SF Hep B Free Gala Supports Free Chinatown Screenings
-Chinese Hospital, Chinatown community organizations and benevolent associations partner to stop liver cancer-
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Christine Hsu, media@sfhepbfree.org or Angela Pang, apang@asianweek.com, work: (415) 321-5894, cell: (650) 703-9364
SAN FRANCISCO, October 15, 2009 - SF Hep B Free is partnering with Chinese Family Associations, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association and Chinese Hospital, to offer free hepatitis B screenings in Chinatown. The program will be announced at San Francisco Hep B Free gala on Thursday October 15 at the Empress of China Restaurant. Screening for hepatitis B disease is the most effective way to prevent liver cancer.
"We are happy to support hepatitis B testing in Chinatown and hope the screenings will be successful," said Albert G. Chin, president of the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association.
Hepatitis B causes up to 80% of all liver cancers, and disproportionately affects 1 in 10 Asian and Pacific Islanders. A safe and effective vaccine prevents infection and liver cancer cause by hepatitis B. The most important step towards eliminating hepatitis B disease is by being tested for infection in your doctor's office.
The Chinatown community testing program is being provided by Chinese Hospital and will take place with screening events to be held in selected Chinatown locations. Chinese Hospital will provide results to all those tested.
"Hepatitis B is a very important health issue and everyone who does not know if their status, should become tested," said San Francisco Health Commissioner Edward A. Chow, M.D.
SF Hep B Free is supported by Mayor Gavin Newsom, Assemblywoman Fiona Ma, and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
###
ABOUT Hepatitis B
Asian and Pacific Islanders (APIs) are disproportionately impacted by Hepatitis B. It is a disease of the liver caused by HBV, a virus often called a "silent killer" because it can cause liver cancer, cirrhosis or liver failure without producing symptoms. San Francisco has the highest liver cancer rate in the nation and 80% of liver cancer in APIs is caused by HBV. But it's preventable with a simple vaccine.
ABOUT San Francisco Hep B Free
www.sfhepbfree.org
San Francisco Hep B Free is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare and community organizations. The program's goal is to make San Francisco a hepatitis B-free city by (1) creating public and healthcare provider awareness about the importance of testing & vaccinating APIS for hepatitis B; (2) promoting routine HBV screenings and vaccinations within the primary care medical community; and (3) facilitating access to treatment for chronically infected individuals. The campaign's theme is "B a Hero. See a doctor who tests for Hepatitis B."
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Christine Hsu, media@sfhepbfree.org or Angela Pang, apang@asianweek.com, work: (415) 321-5894, cell: (650) 703-9364
SAN FRANCISCO, October 15, 2009 - SF Hep B Free is partnering with Chinese Family Associations, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association and Chinese Hospital, to offer free hepatitis B screenings in Chinatown. The program will be announced at San Francisco Hep B Free gala on Thursday October 15 at the Empress of China Restaurant. Screening for hepatitis B disease is the most effective way to prevent liver cancer.
"We are happy to support hepatitis B testing in Chinatown and hope the screenings will be successful," said Albert G. Chin, president of the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association.
Hepatitis B causes up to 80% of all liver cancers, and disproportionately affects 1 in 10 Asian and Pacific Islanders. A safe and effective vaccine prevents infection and liver cancer cause by hepatitis B. The most important step towards eliminating hepatitis B disease is by being tested for infection in your doctor's office.
The Chinatown community testing program is being provided by Chinese Hospital and will take place with screening events to be held in selected Chinatown locations. Chinese Hospital will provide results to all those tested.
"Hepatitis B is a very important health issue and everyone who does not know if their status, should become tested," said San Francisco Health Commissioner Edward A. Chow, M.D.
SF Hep B Free is supported by Mayor Gavin Newsom, Assemblywoman Fiona Ma, and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
###
ABOUT Hepatitis B
Asian and Pacific Islanders (APIs) are disproportionately impacted by Hepatitis B. It is a disease of the liver caused by HBV, a virus often called a "silent killer" because it can cause liver cancer, cirrhosis or liver failure without producing symptoms. San Francisco has the highest liver cancer rate in the nation and 80% of liver cancer in APIs is caused by HBV. But it's preventable with a simple vaccine.
ABOUT San Francisco Hep B Free
www.sfhepbfree.org
San Francisco Hep B Free is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare and community organizations. The program's goal is to make San Francisco a hepatitis B-free city by (1) creating public and healthcare provider awareness about the importance of testing & vaccinating APIS for hepatitis B; (2) promoting routine HBV screenings and vaccinations within the primary care medical community; and (3) facilitating access to treatment for chronically infected individuals. The campaign's theme is "B a Hero. See a doctor who tests for Hepatitis B."
Honor Roll Names Clinicians Preventing Liver Cancer
- List to be published in SF Medical Society Journal and selected media outlets -
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Christine Hsu, media@sfhepbfree.org or
Angela Pang, apang@asianweek.com, work: (415) 321-5894, cell: (650) 703-9364
SAN FRANCISCO, CA, October 15, 2009 - This fall, the San Francisco Hep B Free campaign will begin publication of the Hep B Free Clinician's Honor Roll to promote the growing number of doctor's offices that are testing patients and working to prevent liver cancer and Hepatitis B disease. The list will be unveiled a the 2nd annual B a Hero Gala tonight.
"It should be standard of care for all primary care physicians to screen and test Asian and Pacific Islanders for hepatitis B," said Mitch Katz, MD, Executive Director of the San Francisco Department of Public Health. "We want to highlight those who are already actively working to prevent hepatitis B in San Francisco; and to inspire other physicians to do the same."
"We applaud all those already on the SF Hep B Free Clinician's Honor Roll" he emphasized.
The list will be widely publicized among peers, patients and the public at large. It will run on a regular basis in publications including the San Francisco Medical Society Magazine, mainstream news outlets, digital media, and ethnic media such as Sing Tao Daily, Philippine News, Korea Times, and AsianWeek.com.
Establishing the Clinician Honor Roll follows the release last year of new national screening guidelines for Hepatitis B established by the federal Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta, Georgia. SF Hep B Free's goal is to have every primary care provider to routinely screen their patients for Hep B.
"As a doctor in a city where more than one third of residents are Asian, I always make it a priority to screen my Asian and Pacific Islander patients for hepatitis B, which gravely affects 1 in 10, and can lead to liver cancer and death," said Dr. Lisa Wing-Yee Tang, of Kaiser Permanente in San Francisco. "I encourage my colleagues to screen as well. This is a disease that can be prevented and I am determined to do what I can to stop the spread of this disease." Tang chairs the SF Hep B Free Clinicians Outreach Committee.
The San Francisco Hep B Free Clinician Honor Roll includes any clinician who has completed a Patient Follow Up form from the San Francisco Department of Public Health Chronic Viral Hepatitis Registry before August 2009. Other physicians can join the Honor Roll by signing a pledge (1) to screen patients at risk for HBV infections in accordance with CDC guidelines, and (2) to respond to information requests from the SFDPH regarding patients with chronic hepatitis B.
Susan Fernyak, MD, Director of Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, hopes the Honor Roll will include every eligible physician in San Francisco.
"We encourage all physicians serving adults - including obstetricians, gynecologists, and family practitioners, to sign the new pledge form as a commitment to collaborate with the San Francisco Department of Public Health in its efforts to prevent the transmission of hepatitis B in San Francisco," said Dr. Fernyak.
"San Francisco has the highest liver cancer rate in the nation, and if doctors make a conscious effort to screen for this disease, we can one day eradicate hepatitis B," added Dr. Tang.
The SF Hep B Free Honor Roll project is being coordinated through the AsianWeek Foundation in partnership with the SF Department of Public Health. For more information or to sign up for the SF Hep B Free Clinicians Honor Roll, contact Angela Pang, HonorRoll@sfhepbfree.org or (415) 321-5894.
###
ABOUT Hepatitis B
Asian and Pacific Islanders (APIs) are disproportionately impacted by Hepatitis B. It is a disease of the liver caused by HBV, a virus often called a "silent killer" because it can cause liver cancer, cirrhosis or liver failure without producing symptoms. San Francisco has the highest liver cancer rate in the nation and 80% of liver cancer in APIs is caused by HBV. But it's preventable with a simple vaccine.
ABOUT San Francisco Hep B Free
www.sfhepbfree.org
San Francisco Hep B Free is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare and community organizations. The program's goal is to make San Francisco a hepatitis B-free city by (1) creating public and healthcare provider awareness about the importance of testing & vaccinating APIS for hepatitis B; (2) promoting routine HBV screenings and vaccinations within the primary care medical community; and (3) facilitating access to treatment for chronically infected individuals. The campaign's theme is "B a Hero. See a doctor who tests for Hepatitis B."
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Christine Hsu, media@sfhepbfree.org or
Angela Pang, apang@asianweek.com, work: (415) 321-5894, cell: (650) 703-9364
SAN FRANCISCO, CA, October 15, 2009 - This fall, the San Francisco Hep B Free campaign will begin publication of the Hep B Free Clinician's Honor Roll to promote the growing number of doctor's offices that are testing patients and working to prevent liver cancer and Hepatitis B disease. The list will be unveiled a the 2nd annual B a Hero Gala tonight.
"It should be standard of care for all primary care physicians to screen and test Asian and Pacific Islanders for hepatitis B," said Mitch Katz, MD, Executive Director of the San Francisco Department of Public Health. "We want to highlight those who are already actively working to prevent hepatitis B in San Francisco; and to inspire other physicians to do the same."
"We applaud all those already on the SF Hep B Free Clinician's Honor Roll" he emphasized.
The list will be widely publicized among peers, patients and the public at large. It will run on a regular basis in publications including the San Francisco Medical Society Magazine, mainstream news outlets, digital media, and ethnic media such as Sing Tao Daily, Philippine News, Korea Times, and AsianWeek.com.
Establishing the Clinician Honor Roll follows the release last year of new national screening guidelines for Hepatitis B established by the federal Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta, Georgia. SF Hep B Free's goal is to have every primary care provider to routinely screen their patients for Hep B.
"As a doctor in a city where more than one third of residents are Asian, I always make it a priority to screen my Asian and Pacific Islander patients for hepatitis B, which gravely affects 1 in 10, and can lead to liver cancer and death," said Dr. Lisa Wing-Yee Tang, of Kaiser Permanente in San Francisco. "I encourage my colleagues to screen as well. This is a disease that can be prevented and I am determined to do what I can to stop the spread of this disease." Tang chairs the SF Hep B Free Clinicians Outreach Committee.
The San Francisco Hep B Free Clinician Honor Roll includes any clinician who has completed a Patient Follow Up form from the San Francisco Department of Public Health Chronic Viral Hepatitis Registry before August 2009. Other physicians can join the Honor Roll by signing a pledge (1) to screen patients at risk for HBV infections in accordance with CDC guidelines, and (2) to respond to information requests from the SFDPH regarding patients with chronic hepatitis B.
Susan Fernyak, MD, Director of Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, hopes the Honor Roll will include every eligible physician in San Francisco.
"We encourage all physicians serving adults - including obstetricians, gynecologists, and family practitioners, to sign the new pledge form as a commitment to collaborate with the San Francisco Department of Public Health in its efforts to prevent the transmission of hepatitis B in San Francisco," said Dr. Fernyak.
"San Francisco has the highest liver cancer rate in the nation, and if doctors make a conscious effort to screen for this disease, we can one day eradicate hepatitis B," added Dr. Tang.
The SF Hep B Free Honor Roll project is being coordinated through the AsianWeek Foundation in partnership with the SF Department of Public Health. For more information or to sign up for the SF Hep B Free Clinicians Honor Roll, contact Angela Pang, HonorRoll@sfhepbfree.org or (415) 321-5894.
###
ABOUT Hepatitis B
Asian and Pacific Islanders (APIs) are disproportionately impacted by Hepatitis B. It is a disease of the liver caused by HBV, a virus often called a "silent killer" because it can cause liver cancer, cirrhosis or liver failure without producing symptoms. San Francisco has the highest liver cancer rate in the nation and 80% of liver cancer in APIs is caused by HBV. But it's preventable with a simple vaccine.
ABOUT San Francisco Hep B Free
www.sfhepbfree.org
San Francisco Hep B Free is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare and community organizations. The program's goal is to make San Francisco a hepatitis B-free city by (1) creating public and healthcare provider awareness about the importance of testing & vaccinating APIS for hepatitis B; (2) promoting routine HBV screenings and vaccinations within the primary care medical community; and (3) facilitating access to treatment for chronically infected individuals. The campaign's theme is "B a Hero. See a doctor who tests for Hepatitis B."
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Monday, October 5, 2009
Friday, October 2, 2009
Press Release: "Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association Partners with San Francisco Hep B Free"
SF Hep B Free
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Dr. Mitch Katz, Executive Director SF Dept of Public Health
Edward A. Chow, M.D., San Francisco Health Commissioner
Brenda Yee, President Chinese Hospital
Ted Fang, AsianWeek Foundation
Bong L. Wong, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
Tong Jack Lew, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
Damon Yee, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
Wing Y. Leung, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
Larry Lo, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
Michael Kay, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
Ivan S. Pung, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
Albert G. Chin, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
WHERE: Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
843 Stockton St.
San Francisco, CA
RSVP to: Angela Pang, apang@asianweek.com, (415) 321-5894
About Hepatitis B
San Francisco has the highest liver cancer rate in the nation, due to its high population of Asian Americans. HBV is the greatest health disparity between Asians and non-Asians. One in 10 Asians are chronically infected with Hep B and are 4 times more likely to die from liver cancer compared with the general population. 80% of liver cancer worldwide is caused by chronic HBV infection. Early detection of HBV will benefit the carrier as well as prevent the infection from spreading. Hepatitis B is not only vaccine preventable, but it also has effective treatments that can slow or prevent liver damage caused by the disease.
About San Francisco Hep B Free
San Francisco Hep B Free is a multi-faceted and comprehensive citywide campaign to turn San Francisco into the first HBV free city in the nation. It has become the model for the country and is being replicated in Washington DC, Philadelphia, San Mateo County, Los Angeles County, Orange County and other municipalities.
About B a Hero Gala Fundraiser
B a Hero Gala Dinner on Thursday, October 15, 2009 at the Empress of China Restaurant Grand Ballroom, 838 Grant Ave, San Francisco, beginning at 6pm. This dinner will support free Hepatitis B screenings in Chinatown, partnering with Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association members and Chinese Hospital.
Special rate for community members of $100 ticket or $1,000 per table. For information and reservations contact Tamiko Wong, twong@awfoundation.com or (415) 321-5865.
sfhepbfree.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association Partners with San Francisco Hep B Free
Annual B a Hero Gala Dinner on October 15 to support
free Chinatown screening program with Chinese Hospital
free Chinatown screening program with Chinese Hospital
SAN FRANCISCO - San Francisco has the highest rate of liver cancer in the country, primarily among Chinese and Asian residents. 80% of all liver cancer is caused by Hepatitis B infection. Chinese and Asians are 100 times more likely to be infected with Hep B than non-Asians. One out of 10 Chinese has chronic Hep B disease and could develop liver cancer. Only one out of 1,000 non-Asians is infected with Hep B.
There is a vaccine that prevents Hepatitis B infection, and there is medicine to prevent liver cancer.
SF Hep B Free will hold a dinner fundraiser on Thursday October 15 at the Empress of China. This dinner will support a partnership with the Chinese Family Associations and the Chinese Hospital, to offer free Hep B screenings in Chinatown. All Chinese and Asians in San Francisco should be tested for Hep B and see their doctor.
WHAT: B a Hero Gala fundraiser on Oct. 15, at the Empress of China Restaurant in San Francisco Chinatown, partnering with the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association, Chinese Family Associations, and Chinese Hospital to provide free hepatitis B screenings in Chinatown.
WHEN: Monday October 5, 1:30 pm
Dr. Mitch Katz, Executive Director SF Dept of Public Health
Edward A. Chow, M.D., San Francisco Health Commissioner
Brenda Yee, President Chinese Hospital
Ted Fang, AsianWeek Foundation
Bong L. Wong, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
Tong Jack Lew, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
Damon Yee, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
Wing Y. Leung, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
Larry Lo, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
Michael Kay, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
Ivan S. Pung, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
Albert G. Chin, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
WHERE: Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
843 Stockton St.
San Francisco, CA
RSVP to: Angela Pang, apang@asianweek.com, (415) 321-5894
###
About Hepatitis B
San Francisco has the highest liver cancer rate in the nation, due to its high population of Asian Americans. HBV is the greatest health disparity between Asians and non-Asians. One in 10 Asians are chronically infected with Hep B and are 4 times more likely to die from liver cancer compared with the general population. 80% of liver cancer worldwide is caused by chronic HBV infection. Early detection of HBV will benefit the carrier as well as prevent the infection from spreading. Hepatitis B is not only vaccine preventable, but it also has effective treatments that can slow or prevent liver damage caused by the disease.
About San Francisco Hep B Free
San Francisco Hep B Free is a multi-faceted and comprehensive citywide campaign to turn San Francisco into the first HBV free city in the nation. It has become the model for the country and is being replicated in Washington DC, Philadelphia, San Mateo County, Los Angeles County, Orange County and other municipalities.
About B a Hero Gala Fundraiser
B a Hero Gala Dinner on Thursday, October 15, 2009 at the Empress of China Restaurant Grand Ballroom, 838 Grant Ave, San Francisco, beginning at 6pm. This dinner will support free Hepatitis B screenings in Chinatown, partnering with Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association members and Chinese Hospital.
Special rate for community members of $100 ticket or $1,000 per table. For information and reservations contact Tamiko Wong, twong@awfoundation.com or (415) 321-5865.
sfhepbfree.org
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Friday, September 11, 2009
USAsian Wire: "Mayor Gavin Newsom Orders Hepatitis B Educational Materials to Be Distributed to the City's Newlyweds"
September 11, 2009
SAN FRANCISCO--(U.S. ASIAN WIRE) -- All couples registering for marriage licenses in San Francisco will now receive additional information on Hepatitis B, thanks to an executive directive issued by San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom on September 9, 2009, an auspicious day for many Asians. The directive orders the San Francisco County Clerk to offer information on hepatitis B testing and vaccination locations along with the required marriage license booklet. Hepatitis B information will be prepared and supplied by the Department of Public Health.
"The prevalence of Hepatitis B in San Francisco's Asian community demands intervention to increase awareness of this vaccine preventable disease," says Mayor Gavin Newsom in his executive directive. Mayor Newsom and Assemblywoman Fiona Ma, both active supporters of San Francisco Hep B Free, are leading the Hepatitis B awareness effort, along with more than 50 healthcare and Asian Pacific Islander (API) organizations.
San Francisco has the highest liver cancer rate in the nation, due to its high population of Asian Americans. HBV is the greatest health disparity between Asians and non-Asians. One in 10 Asians are chronically infected with Hep B and are 4 times more likely to die from liver cancer compared with the general population. 80% of liver cancer worldwide is caused by chronic HBV infection. Early detection of HBV will benefit the carrier as well as prevent the infection from spreading. Hepatitis B is not only vaccine preventable, but it also has effective treatments that can slow or prevent liver damage caused by the disease.
The SF Board of Supervisors and SF Health Commission have passed unanimous resolutions supporting SF Hep B Free. The campaign puts San Francisco at the forefront of the nation in fighting chronic hepatitis B. It is the largest, most intensive healthcare campaign for Asian and Pacific Islanders in the U.S. This initiative has received national attention and is being looked to as a model by the California legislature.
About San Francisco Hep B Free Campaign
San Francisco Hep B Free is a citywide campaign to turn San Francisco into the first HBV free city in the nation. This unprecedented campaign will screen, vaccinate and treat all San Francisco Asian and Pacific Islander (API) residents for HBV by providing convenient, free or low-cost testing opportunities at partnering health facilities and events.
San Francisco Hep B Free will be hosting its 2nd annual fundraiser - the B a Hero Gala on Thursday, October 15, 2009 at the Empress of China Restaurant Grand Ballroom located at 838 Grant Ave, San Francisco, beginning at 6 pm. For more information contact Tamiko Wong,twong@awfoundation.com or (415) 321-5865
http://www.sfhepbfree.org
SAN FRANCISCO--(U.S. ASIAN WIRE) -- All couples registering for marriage licenses in San Francisco will now receive additional information on Hepatitis B, thanks to an executive directive issued by San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom on September 9, 2009, an auspicious day for many Asians. The directive orders the San Francisco County Clerk to offer information on hepatitis B testing and vaccination locations along with the required marriage license booklet. Hepatitis B information will be prepared and supplied by the Department of Public Health.
"The prevalence of Hepatitis B in San Francisco's Asian community demands intervention to increase awareness of this vaccine preventable disease," says Mayor Gavin Newsom in his executive directive. Mayor Newsom and Assemblywoman Fiona Ma, both active supporters of San Francisco Hep B Free, are leading the Hepatitis B awareness effort, along with more than 50 healthcare and Asian Pacific Islander (API) organizations.
San Francisco has the highest liver cancer rate in the nation, due to its high population of Asian Americans. HBV is the greatest health disparity between Asians and non-Asians. One in 10 Asians are chronically infected with Hep B and are 4 times more likely to die from liver cancer compared with the general population. 80% of liver cancer worldwide is caused by chronic HBV infection. Early detection of HBV will benefit the carrier as well as prevent the infection from spreading. Hepatitis B is not only vaccine preventable, but it also has effective treatments that can slow or prevent liver damage caused by the disease.
The SF Board of Supervisors and SF Health Commission have passed unanimous resolutions supporting SF Hep B Free. The campaign puts San Francisco at the forefront of the nation in fighting chronic hepatitis B. It is the largest, most intensive healthcare campaign for Asian and Pacific Islanders in the U.S. This initiative has received national attention and is being looked to as a model by the California legislature.
About San Francisco Hep B Free Campaign
San Francisco Hep B Free is a citywide campaign to turn San Francisco into the first HBV free city in the nation. This unprecedented campaign will screen, vaccinate and treat all San Francisco Asian and Pacific Islander (API) residents for HBV by providing convenient, free or low-cost testing opportunities at partnering health facilities and events.
San Francisco Hep B Free will be hosting its 2nd annual fundraiser - the B a Hero Gala on Thursday, October 15, 2009 at the Empress of China Restaurant Grand Ballroom located at 838 Grant Ave, San Francisco, beginning at 6 pm. For more information contact Tamiko Wong,twong@awfoundation.com or (415) 321-5865
http://www.sfhepbfree.org
Thursday, September 10, 2009
SF Examiner: "Get Married, Get Hep B Vaccine"
By: Mike Aldax
09/10/09 9:30 AM PDT
Young and happy couples fetching marriage licenses at City Hall are also poised to receive this piece of not-so-fun advice: Don’t forget to receive your Hepatitis B vaccinations!
On Wednesday Mayor Gavin Newsom directed The City and County Clerk to offer additional preventative information about the dangerous disease to couples applying for marriage licenses, including where they can be tested or receive vaccinations.
The Newsom directive says Hepatitis B largely affects The City’s Asian and Pacific Islander population and can cause acute illness and chronic infection including cirrhosis, liver failure and liver cancer. It is easily transmitted from mother-to-child at birth, through unprotected sex or by contaminated blood on toothbrushes, razors or needles, the mayor said.
“An estimated 1 in 10 people of (Asian or Pacific Islander) descent in the Bay Area has an undiagnosed HBV infection compared to 1 in 1000 in the general population,” the mayor said in his executive directive.
09/10/09 9:30 AM PDT
Young and happy couples fetching marriage licenses at City Hall are also poised to receive this piece of not-so-fun advice: Don’t forget to receive your Hepatitis B vaccinations!
On Wednesday Mayor Gavin Newsom directed The City and County Clerk to offer additional preventative information about the dangerous disease to couples applying for marriage licenses, including where they can be tested or receive vaccinations.
The Newsom directive says Hepatitis B largely affects The City’s Asian and Pacific Islander population and can cause acute illness and chronic infection including cirrhosis, liver failure and liver cancer. It is easily transmitted from mother-to-child at birth, through unprotected sex or by contaminated blood on toothbrushes, razors or needles, the mayor said.
“An estimated 1 in 10 people of (Asian or Pacific Islander) descent in the Bay Area has an undiagnosed HBV infection compared to 1 in 1000 in the general population,” the mayor said in his executive directive.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Press Release: "Mayor Gavin Newsom Orders Hepatitis B Educational Materials to Be Distributed to the City's Newlyweds"
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Christine Hsu, media@sfhepbfree.org
or
Angela Pang, apang@asianweek.com, (415) 321-5894
Mayor Gavin Newsom Orders Hepatitis B Educational Materials to Be Distributed to the City's Newlyweds
SAN FRANCISCO, CA, September 9, 2009 - All couples registering for marriage licenses in San Francisco will now receive additional information on Hepatitis B, thanks to an executive directive issued by San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom on September 9, 2009, an auspicious day for many Asians. The directive orders the San Francisco County Clerk to offer information on hepatitis B testing and vaccination locations along with the required marriage license booklet. Hepatitis B information will be prepared and supplied by the Department of Public Health.
"The prevalence of Hepatitis B in San Francisco's Asian community demands intervention to increase awareness of this vaccine preventable disease," says Mayor Gavin Newsom in his executive directive. Mayor Newsom and Assemblywoman Fiona Ma, both active supporters of San Francisco Hep B Free, are leading the Hepatitis B awareness effort, along with more than 50 healthcare and Asian Pacific Islander (API) organizations.
San Francisco has the highest liver cancer rate in the nation, due to its high population of Asian Americans. HBV is the greatest health disparity between Asians and non-Asians. One in 10 Asians are chronically infected with Hep B and are 4 times more likely to die from liver cancer compared with the general population. 80% of liver cancer worldwide is caused by chronic HBV infection. Early detection of HBV will benefit the carrier as well as prevent the infection from spreading. Hepatitis B is not only vaccine preventable, but it also has effective treatments that can slow or prevent liver damage caused by the disease.
The SF Board of Supervisors and SF Health Commission have passed unanimous resolutions supporting SF Hep B Free. The campaign puts San Francisco at the forefront of the nation in fighting chronic hepatitis B. It is the largest, most intensive healthcare campaign for Asian and Pacific Islanders in the U.S. This initiative has received national attention and is being looked to as a model by the California legislature.
###
About San Francisco Hep B Free Campaign
San Francisco Hep B Free is a citywide campaign to turn San Francisco into the first HBV free city in the nation. This unprecedented campaign will screen, vaccinate and treat all San Francisco Asian and Pacific Islander (API) residents for HBV by providing convenient, free or low-cost testing opportunities at partnering health facilities and events.
San Francisco Hep B Free will be hosting its 2nd annual fundraiser - the B a Hero Gala on Thursday, October 15, 2009 at the Empress of China Restaurant Grand Ballroom located at 838 Grant Ave, San Francisco, beginning at 6pm. For more information contact Tamiko Wong, twong@awfoundation.com or (415) 321-5865.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Donate your gifts for our silent auction!
Watch this hilarious video of Mary Jung asking for gift donations and then DONATE to the silent auction activity at the October 15th Fundraising Gala for the SF Hep B Free Campaign!
Send your gifts to Mary Jung @ 809 Sacramento Street, San Francisco, CA 94108 or email Mary for more information!
Don't have any gifts to donate?
How about making a cash donation to SFhepBfree? Your support is greatly appreciated!
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Portola Neighborhood Festival - September 13, 2009
Have you ever been tested for Hep B? Hep B affects 1 in every 10 Asians. Please come to join us to celebrate the 7th Annual Portola Neighborhood Street Festival on San Bruno Avenue, from 10-4pm. California Pacific Medical Center along with API Wellness will be offering free Hepatits B Screening.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Press Release: "Have an 'Unexpected Encounter' With Two Talented APA Musicians"
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Christine Hsu, media@sfhepbfree.org
or
Steve Liu, 206.972.3560, steven@vivesf.com
Have an "Unexpected Encounter" With Two Talented APA Musicians
-Odessa Chen and Alice Tong headline dinner benefiting the San Francisco Hep B Free Campaign-
-Odessa Chen and Alice Tong headline dinner benefiting the San Francisco Hep B Free Campaign-
From left to right: Odessa Chen, photo courtesy of Elena Maria LaCuesta, and Alice Tong
SAN FRANCISCO, CA, August 11, 2009 - Two beautiful up and coming Asian Pacific American female musicians - Odessa Chen and Alice Tong, have joined the San Francisco Hep B Free Campaign to help promote awareness about the impact of the hepatitis b virus (HBV) on Asian Pacific Americans. The two will be performing at "An Unexpected Encounter: A night on the town filled with music, dinner & friends" on Friday Aug. 21, from 6 to 9pm at Jillians, located at 101 4th St., inside the San Francisco Metreon. Attendees will enjoy a scrumptious 3-course meal featuring chicken picatta, spaghetti and sausage, or vegetable skewers, enjoy amazing musical performances, and learn about hepatitis B. Tickets are $45 per person. All proceeds will benefit S.F. Hep B Free - a citywide campaign to turn San Francisco into the first hepatitis B free city in the nation.
"The fact that 1 in 10 Asians is infected, is alarming. As an Asian American, I want to do what I can to help raise awareness of this disease, and am happy to use my music to do so," says Odessa Chen, a guitarist and vocalist whose work has appeared in independent films, compilations, and on radio stations. "This will be fun event, and is not to be missed!"
Guests will be in for a treat, as Chen plans to perform for the first time, "Giving Up the Ghosts," a love song from an upcoming album.
HBV is the greatest health disparity between Asians and non-Asians. One in 10 Asians are chronically infected with hepatitis B and of those who are infected, 25% will die prematurely from liver disease. 80% of liver cancer worldwide is caused by chronic HBV infection. Hepatitis B is not only vaccine preventable, but it also has effective treatments that can slow or prevent liver damage caused by the disease.
"With both my father and grandmother being survivors of hepatitis B, this is an issue that is both personal to me and too widespread to be overlooked in our community as Asian Americans," says Alice Tong, whose music has been in independent films, including "American Fusion" which won the Audience Award at the Hawaii International Film Festival. "I really admire the work SF Hep B Free is doing to educate our community and am looking forward to being able to contribute to this important cause on Aug. 21st."
The event is being organized by vive, a new Asian Pacific American events company.
For sponsorship opportunities email steven@vivesf.com
Tickets can be purchased at www.vivesf.com.
What: An Unexpected Encounter: A night on the town with music, dinner, and friends, a benefit for SF Hep B Free
When: Friday, Aug. 21, 6pm to 9pm
Where: Jillians, 101 4th St., inside the San Francisco Metreon
Cost: $45
###
About San Francisco Hep B Free Campaign
San Francisco Hep B Free is a citywide campaign to turn San Francisco into the first HBV free city in the nation. This unprecedented 2-year-long campaign will screen, vaccinate and treat all San Francisco Asian and Pacific Islander (API) residents of HBV by providing convenient, free or low-cost testing opportunities at partnering health facilities and events.
http://www.sfhepbfree.org
About Odessa Chen
Described as intelligent, subtle, and haunting, Odessa Chen's pure, ethereal voice and finger-picking guitar style has attracted international attention with her debut One Room Palace (2003) and has laid the foundation for her current release The Ballad of Paper Ships, which she wrote, produced, and arranged. Chen has been interviewed on NPR, MTV and KRON4's Pacific Fusion TV.
http://www.odessachen.com/
About Alice Tong
Alice Tong is a singer, songwriter, artist, activist, social worker, 2nd generation Chinese-Taiwanese-American. Tong has a BA in Ethnomusicology and a Masters in Social Work. Her musical style ranges from such categories as folk rock, indie rock, soul, and jazz. Alice's album "Small" can be bought on iTunes.
http://www.myspace.com/alicetongmusic
About vive
Wanting to give young Asian Pacific Americans the opportunity on Friday and Saturday nights to do more than just hitting San Francisco's bustling club scene, vive launched in Feb. 2009, to combine people's love for a lively atmosphere with a chance to express and absorb APA heritage and culture. Bringing together all groups of people, Asian Americans and non Asians, to be inspired by the art and community that stem from Asian/Pacific Islander cultures, vive promotes healthy development of Asian Pacific American identity by promoting events, concerts, and activities.
http://www.vivesf.com
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