Background. Liver cancer rates are higher in North American Chinese than non-Asian ethnic/racial groups. Further, 80% of liver cancer cases among Asians are associated with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Methods. A community-based survey of Chinese women (n=147) was completed during 1999 to examine HBV knowledge and serologic testing in Vancouver, Canada. The in-person questionnaire included items regarding the transmission, possible sequelae and prevention of HBV infection. Results. The majority (85%) of women had heard of HBV prior to being given a description of the disease. Most women knew that HBV could be transmitted by asymptomatic individuals (68%), by sharing toothbrushes (86%), or by eating pre-chewed food (82%), but only about one-half (56%) knew that HBV could be transmitted by sexual intercourse. Although most respondents knew that HBV could be fatal (77%) or cause liver cancer (61%), only a minority were aware that infection could be lifelong (39%) or was not usually curable (25%). Only 39% of respondents were aware that they had ever been tested for HBV infection. Knowledge of HBV and previous serologic testing were significantly associated with higher education level and English fluency. Conclusions. These finding suggest that North American Chinese women have low levels of knowledge about some important factors associated with HBV infection and a low awareness of recommended strategies for prevention. Health education efforts to reduce HBV-associated liver cancer in this community should target less acculturated women.
Learning Objectives: 1. Recognize North American Chinese women's knowledge and beliefs with respect to the transmission, sequelae and prevention of Hepatitis B. 2. Identify the sociodemographic and acculturation factors which are associated with levels of knowledge and serologic testing. 3. Develop targeted, culturally-appropriate health education programs for the prevention of Hepatitis B in the Chinese North American community.
Keywords: Hepatitis B, Prevention
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.