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Updated: May 12, 2026
04:11
Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction-Based Detection and Quantification of Hepatitis B Virus DNA
Published on: December 15, 2023
Increasing hepatitis B screening for hmong adults: results from a randomized controlled community-based study
Moon S Chen1, Dao M Fang, Susan L Stewart
1University of California Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, 4800 2nd Avenue, Suite 2200, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA. moon.chen@ucdmc.ucdavis.edu
Summary
Lay health workers effectively increased hepatitis B virus (HBV) screening among Hmong Americans. Doctor recommendations were crucial for encouraging HBV testing and preventing liver cancer.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Hepatology
- Health Disparities
Background:
- Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a primary driver of liver cancer, disproportionately impacting Hmong Americans with incidence rates 6-7 times higher than non-Hispanic Whites.
- Serologic testing for HBV is critical for early detection and prevention of liver cancer deaths in high-risk populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a lay health worker (LHW) intervention in promoting hepatitis B virus (HBV) serologic testing among Hmong adults.
- To identify factors associated with increased HBV testing rates within this community.
Main Methods:
- A 5-year randomized controlled trial involving 260 Hmong adults.
- Intervention included in-home education and patient navigation by lay health workers (LHWs).
- Comparison between intervention and control groups on HBV testing rates and knowledge scores.
Main Results:
- Intervention group participants showed significantly higher HBV testing rates (24% vs. 10%) and increased knowledge scores compared to the control group.
- Multivariable analysis revealed that LHW intervention, improved knowledge, female gender, and prior doctor visits were associated with higher testing rates.
- Physician recommendation was the most frequently cited reason for undergoing HBV testing.
Conclusions:
- Lay health worker (LHW) interventions are effective in increasing hepatitis B virus (HBV) screening rates among Hmong Americans.
- The influence of healthcare providers and adherence to their recommendations are pivotal for enhancing HBV testing.
- Collaborative efforts involving healthcare providers are essential to improve HBV screening and reduce liver cancer incidence.
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