Abstract
Prevalence of hepatitis B among Asian Americans is higher than for any other ethnic group in the United States. Since more than 50% of liver cancer is hepatitis B related, the burden of morbidity and mortality is extremely high among Asian Americans, highlighting the need for culturally appropriate interventions. We conducted focus groups (n = 8) with a total of 58 Korean, Vietnamese, and Chinese immigrants in Maryland to explore knowledge, awareness and perceived barriers toward hepatitis B screening and vaccinations. Thematic analysis uncovered generally low levels of knowledge and awareness of hepatitis B risks, screening, and vaccination; inter-generational differences; and barriers to prevention. Some differences arose across ethnic groups, particularly toward perceived orientation to preventive activities and the role of religious groups. High rates of hepatitis B infection among Asian Americans highlight the need for tailored interventions. These findings may assist policy strategists in implementing interventions that will facilitate the integration and scale-up of hepatitis B education, screening, and vaccination campaigns.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 858-868 |
Number of pages | 11 |
Journal | Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health |
Volume | 14 |
Issue number | 5 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Oct 2012 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Asian Americans
- HBV screening and vaccinations
- Hepatitis B risk
- Immigrant health
- Qualitative
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Epidemiology
- Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health