Long-Term Adherence To Monitoring/Treatment In Underserved Asian Americans With Chronic HBV

Detailed Summary

About 75% of liver cancers are attributed to chronic hepatitis B (CHB). An estimated 2.2 million individuals in the U.S. have CHB. Although Asian Americans make up 6% of total U.S. population, they account for over 58% of Americans with CHB. Prevalence rates of CHB range from 8% to 13% in Asian Americans vs 1% in Non-Hispanic whites (NHW). Asian Americans are 8-13 times more likely to develop liver cancer with 60% higher death rate than NHW. Regular monitoring of CHB is vital in preventing HCC. Research indicates that regular monitoring (e.g., every six months doctor visit; blood tests) combined with antiviral treatment when appropriate, is critical to reduce the risk of liver disease (including HCC). Unfortunately, treatment effectiveness diminishes if CHB patients do not adhere to long-term monitoring and treatment guidelines. Adherence among Asian Americans with CHB is low. Poor healthcare access and significant cultural barriers prevent long-term adherence to monitoring and optimal treatment, placing Asian Americans at disproportionately high risk for HCC and increased healthcare costs. Building on previous studies, the investigators will use a virtual patient navigation (VPN) toolkit system (a web/mobile application) to help CHB patients improving their liver disease management.

Study Details

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Interventions