Hepatitis B awareness,knowledge, and screening among Asian Americans

BACKGROUND: Due to the high prevalence of hepatitis B, Asian Americans have high rates of liver cancer. Screening for hepatitis B leads to monitoring and treatment and prevent further infection through vaccination of contacts. METHODS: We reviewed the published literature up to 2006 on hepatitis B awareness, knowledge, and screening among Asian Americans. RESULTS: Many Asian Americans lack knowledge about hepatitis B and have not been screened. Sociodemographics, knowledge, beliefs, and health care variables are associated with screening. CONCLUSIONS: Further research and health policy changes are needed to address the problem of hepatitis B and liver cancer among Asian Americans.