Factors associated with hepatitis B testing among Cambodian American men and women

J Immigr Minor Health. 2012 Feb;14(1):30-8. doi: 10.1007/s10903-011-9536-8.

Abstract

Cambodian Americans have an elevated risk of liver cancer. This health disparity is attributable to high rates of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Our study examined factors associated with HBV testing among Cambodian men and women. A population-based survey was conducted in the Seattle area. The Health Behavior Framework guided our survey instrument development. We attempted to interview a man and a woman in each household. The sample included 300 men and 367 women. About one-half of the male (45%) and female (54%) respondents had been tested for HBV. Two factors were independently associated with testing among men and women: a doctor had recommended testing and had asked a doctor for testing. Knowing that someone who looks and feels healthy can spread HBV was independently associated with testing among men. Low levels of HBV testing remain a public health problem among Cambodians. Interventions should improve patient-provider communication by encouraging providers who serve Cambodians to recommend HBV testing, as well as by empowering Cambodians to ask for testing.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cambodia / ethnology
  • Female
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Hepatitis B / diagnosis*
  • Hepatitis B / ethnology*
  • Hepatitis B virus / isolation & purification*
  • Humans
  • Interviews as Topic
  • Male
  • Mass Screening / statistics & numerical data*
  • Middle Aged
  • United States
  • Young Adult