Predictors of hepatitis C testing intention among African American Baby Boomers

Abstract

Baby Boomers (BBs) are responsible for three-quarters of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections in the United States; however, HCV testing is distinctly underused by them. A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the prevalence of HCV testing and to evaluate predictors of HCV testing intention among African–American BBs. The study was guided by the Health Belief Model and theory of reasoned action frameworks. Of the 137 participants included in the study, 44.8% had at least a college education; 13.9% received prior to 1992 blood transfusion. Findings related to HCV testing showed that 32.1% of the participants intended to test for HCV within 6months and 43.8% had received a previous HCV test. Significant predictors of HCV testing intention within 6months included having a blood transfusion prior to 1992 [odds ratio (OR)=8.25, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.02–33.61], perceptions of benefits (OR=1.57, 95% CI: 1.13–2.18), severity (OR=1.39, 95% CI: 1.17–1.65), and subjective norms (OR=1.42, 95% CI: 1.12–1.79). These predictors of HCV testing intention can be used to develop future HCV testing initiatives for African–American BBs.