Coalition Building to Address Hepatitis B in Asian American and Pacific Islander Communities

Background: In the United States, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) are disproportionately impacted by hepatitis B (HBV), a disease that is silent and largely undiagnosed, but preventable and treatable. Chronic hepatitis B can slowly destroy the liver over many years, increasing the risk of serious diseases. Approximately 1 million AAPIs are living with chronic HBV infection - more than half of all cases in the United States. First-generation Asians from China, Korea and Vietnam and individuals from the Pacific Islands are at particularly high risk for HBV due to low infant immunization rates in those countries. Over 20 community-based organizations representing 14 states and the District of Columbia united in a national coalition to address this public health priority. The coalition is comprised of multi-sectoral collaborations serving AAPI communities, many who are immigrants and refugees and are limited English proficient and linguistically isolated.

Objective/Purpose: A capacity building program was developed to improve coordination, increase resource sharing/education, and partner engagement. Components include a peer mentoring program, in-person conferences, online trainings, one-on-one technical assistance, and policy advocacy engagement.

Methods: An initial and follow-up survey of the national coalition was conducted to measure member engagement and improved capacity, resources, and education to address HBV in AAPI communities.

Results: Coalition building was successful in increased engagement, resources, and infrastructure development. Members continue to face resource constraints balancing HBV programs with other public health programs; the coalition will have to overcome these barriers and find innovative strategies to sustain member engagement.