Hepatitis B Knowledge and Practices Among Cambodian Immigrants

Background. Chronic hepatitis B infection is the most common cause of liver cancer among Cambodians. Our objective was to describe Cambodian Americans' hepatitis B knowledge, testing, and vaccination levels. Methods. A community-based telephone survey was conducted in Seattle. Our study sample included 111 individuals. Results. Less than one half (46%) of our study group had received a hepatitis B blood test, and about one third (35%) had been vaccinated against hepatitis B. Only 43% knew that Cambodians are more likely to be infected with hepatitis B than whites. Conclusions. Over 50% of our respondents did not recall being tested for hepatitis B. We identified important knowledge deficits about hepatitis B. Continued efforts should be made to implement hepatitis B educational campaigns for Cambodians.