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The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
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The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
Jenny Yi, PhD, MPH and Mercedes Rivas, MEd. University of Houston, 3855 Holman St., Houston, TX 77204
Hispanics comprise a rapidly growing ethnic group in the U.S. Limited data suggested that hepatitis B immunization rate is slightly lower among Hispanic children. Virtually nothing is known locally about the hepatitis B immunization rate among Hispanic children in Houston. Hepatitis B is a virus that effects the liver function and in some cases can cause liver cancer. A clear understanding of hepatitis B immunization rates among Hispanic is essential for the development of culturally appropriate programs to prevent or reduce hepatitis B related morbidity and mortality among Hispanics.
The purpose of this study is to determine a baseline vaccination rate for hepatitis B in school age Hispanic children. The data in this study was collected from 23 schools within the Houston Independent School District: 6 high schools, 2 middle schools and 15 elementary schools. More than 26, 000 students were included in this study of which approximately 14, 000 are Hispanic. Texas state law requires that all children born after September 1, 1992, must have all three shots before they begin public schools. Preliminary findings will be discussed during the presentation. This presentation will include the relationship between selected demographic characteristics and immunization rates for Hispanic population. Implications of the study findings will also be discussed.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
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.