Hepatitis B Testing and Vaccination Among Vietnamese- and Cambodian-Americans

Abstract

We determined hepatitis B virus (HBV) testing and vaccination levels and factors associated with testing and vaccination among Vietnamese- and Cambodian-Americans. We also examined factors associated with healthcare professional (HCP)-patient discussions about HBV. We analyzed 2006 Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH) 2010 Risk Factor Survey data from four US communities. We used logistic regression to identify variables associated with HBV vaccination, testing, and HCP-patient discussions about HBV. Of the 2,049 Vietnamese- and Cambodian-American respondents, 60% reported being tested for HBV, 35% reported being vaccinated against hepatitis B, and 36% indicated that they had discussed HBV with a HCP. Cambodian-Americans were less likely than Vietnamese-Americans to have been tested for HBV, while respondents with at least a high school diploma were more likely to have been tested for HBV. Respondents born in the US, younger individuals, and respondents with at least some college education were more likely to have been vaccinated against hepatitis B. HBV testing and vaccination remain suboptimal among members of these populations. Culturally sensitive efforts that target Vietnamese- and Cambodian-Americans for HBV testing and vaccination are needed to identify chronic carriers of HBV, prevent new infections, and provide appropriate medical management. HCPs that serve these populations should be encouraged to discuss HBV with their patients.