The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #41999

Jenny K. Yi, PhD, MPH¹, Tonya D. Bowman, MEd, CHES², and Georgia Cruz, BS¹. (1) University of Houston, 3885 Holman St., Garrison Bldg. 104, Houston, TX 77204-6321, (2) Department of Health and Human Performance, University of Houston, 3855 Holman St., Garrison Gym, Room 104U, Houston, TX 77204-6321, 713-743-9841, jyi@uh.edu

The purpose of this study is to determine a baseline vaccination rate for Hepatitis B in school age children. Based on this information, more effective programs can be implemented to decrease the incidence of Hepatitis B within populations at greater risk. Hepatitis B is a virus that affects liver function and in some cases can cause liver cancer. There is an increased incidence of Hepatitis B among the African American (AA) population. While no one risk factor accounts for the spread or prevalence of viral hepatitis in AA children and adolescents, several factors do combine to place them at increased risk of this serious disease. Once a baseline is determined, programs can be implemented that are culturally relative and significant to improve vaccination rates.

The data in this study was collected from 23 public schools within the Houston Independent School District: (1) fifteen elementary schools, (2) two middle schools, and (3) six high schools. Variables considered include age, ethnicity, grade level, gender, and completion of the Hepatitis B series. Over 26,000 students were sampled, 33% were African American, 2.9% Asian, 54.1% Hispanic, 10% White, and <0.1% Native American. Texas state law requires that all children born after September 1, 1992 must have all three shots before they begin public schools. Of the students born after this date, 98% have completed all three shots in the series. Findings will be reported and implications of the study will be discussed.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to

• Identify risk factors that place African American children and adolescents at increased risk for Hepatitis B.
• Identify the percentage of African American students who have received the Hepatitis B shot series.
• Identify the baseline vaccination rate for Hepatitis B in school-age children.

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.