Findings from a Large-Scale, Community-Based Hepatitis B Screening Program among Korean Americans in NYC

Background: Chronic hepatitis B virus(HBV)infection is responsible for the majority of liver related morbidity and mortality throughout the world. Previous reports have demonstrated a HBV prevalence rate of 10-15% in Asian American population as compared to <0.3% in the general US population, demonstrating a marked disparity between these two populations. There is a strong need to identify individuals who can benefit from vaccination and those who may need treatments in Asian American community. Objectives: To assess the prevalence and socio-demographic characteristics of HBV among a community-based sample of Korean Americans in NYC, thereby develop strategic plans to reduce the impact of HBV in Asian American community. Methods: Serologic screening and survey were provided to 1152 Korean American adults(443 men and 709 women >age 20) in NYC between April 2008 and January 2010. All participants were tested for hepatitis B surface antigen and surface antibody. Self-administered questionnaires were employed to evaluate demographic and epidemiologic characteristics Results: Of those screened, 61(5.3%) were HBV carriers, 554 (48.1%) were susceptible to HBV, and 537 (46.6%) were immune. The prevalence of chronic HBV was higher among the individuals aged ≥ 45 (6%) as compared to those < age 45(4.2%). Men had a significantly greater prevalence than women: 7.7% vs 3.8%. Of all participants, 84.1% lacked health insurance and 11.1% reported a family history of HBV. Discussion: Study findings will be used to develop evidence-based, community-level strategies to tailor community-based HBV screenings to the high risk groups within the Korean community of NYC.