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Hepatitis B virus. Inappropriate reactions to transmission risks
JAMA
|February 9, 1979
Summary
Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) carriers need screening for disease transmission risk awareness. Counseling improves understanding and reduces social withdrawal, ensuring appropriate risk perception.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Psychology
Background:
- Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) carriers may exhibit varied psychological responses to their condition.
- Understanding these reactions is crucial for effective patient management and public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess psychological reactions to hepatitis B virus (HBV) transmission risks among HBsAg carriers.
- To evaluate the impact of counseling on risk perception and social adjustment.
Main Methods:
- Screening of ten HBsAg carriers using a 32-item questionnaire.
- Provision of counseling on HBV transmission risks.
- One-month follow-up assessment of risk awareness and social adjustment.
Main Results:
- Three carriers initially underreacted to transmission risks due to denial or misunderstanding.
- One carrier exhibited overreaction, manifesting as social withdrawal.
- Post-counseling, all carriers demonstrated appropriate risk awareness.
- One of two carriers referred for psychotherapy showed significant improvement in social adjustment.
Conclusions:
- Routine screening for inappropriate reactions to HBV transmission risks is recommended for HBsAg carriers.
- Counseling is an effective intervention for improving risk perception and psychosocial well-being.
- Addressing psychological responses is vital in managing HBsAg carriers.