Eliminating the Threat of Chronic Hepatitis B in the Asian and Pacific Islander Community: A Call to Action

Abstract

Chronic hepatitis B in the Asian and Pacific Islander (API) population is among our nation’s greatest ethnicand racial health disparities. Despite comprising 4.3% of the population, API make up a disproportionate halfof the 1.2-2 million Americans living with chronic hepatitis B. As many as two-thirds of API are not aware oftheir infection because they have not been tested. This lack of knowledge prevents them from undergoing lifesavingliver cancer screening and potential treatment. Likewise, those not protected are unaware that theyshould be vaccinated. Instead, there is a pervasive lack of awareness among API and healthcare providers. Newconcerted public health actions are needed to eliminate this major health disparity.

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