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Abstract Details
A mixed-methods approach to understanding perceptions of hepatitis B and hepatocellular carcinoma among ethnically diverse Black communities in South Florida
Cancer Causes Control. 2020 Sep 22. doi: 10.1007/s10552-020-01345-6. Online ahead of print.
1Department of Medicine, Division of Digestive Health and Liver Diseases, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, USA. pdjones@med.miami.edu.
2Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, USA. pdjones@med.miami.edu.
3Department of Medicine, Division of Digestive Health and Liver Diseases, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, USA.
4Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, USA.
5Department of Medicine, Division of Computational Medicine and Population Health, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, USA.
6Jay Weiss Institute for Health Equity, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, USA.
Abstract
Purpose: Hepatitis B (HBV), the leading cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), disproportionately affects minorities. Compared to other races, Blacks more often present with advanced HCC and have decreased survival. We observed higher HBV-associated HCC rates among Blacks than reported nationally. In our center, Haitian Blacks had the highest rates of HBV-associated HCC and shorter survival compared to other Blacks. We investigated knowledge and perceptions regarding HBV and HCC among Blacks born in the United States or Haiti.
Methods: Using community partnerships, participants were recruited via word of mouth, email, social media or from Hepatology clinic. Focus groups were conducted in Haitian Creole or English and stratified by birthplace, gender and infection status. Discussions were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. A constant comparative method was used for data analysis; themes are based on conversational details.
Results: There were 55 participants; 49% were male and 27% had chronic HBV. Only 42% of Haitian Blacks knew about HBV prior to participation vs. 78% of African Americans, p 0.03. Both groups expressed that fear, mistrust of the medical establishment, denial and stigma might compel persons to avoid seeking care. Both groups attributed higher rates of late stage HCC diagnosis in Blacks to inadequate financial resources and education. Those with HBV reported confusion regarding their infection and suboptimal communication with healthcare providers.
Conclusions: In two communities disproportionately affected by HBV, misconceptions about disease transmission, stigma, low health literacy and decreased access to care may limit detection for HBV. Culturally relevant community-based interventions are needed to increase HBV detection.