We have written about this subject for over a decade, but it seems odd to keep talking about a disease that is both preventable and detectable. As so many people are still infected, we have to discuss this Asian American Medical Hazard: Hepatitis B. This disease leads to liver cancer in one out of four cases. Half of chronic Hepatitis B infections in the US are carried by Asian Americans.
Why is this the case? While a vaccine has been available since the 1980’s, those that are already infected will not benefit from the vaccine. There currently is no cure, although treatment can reduce cancer risks and transmission. The disease often causes no symptoms at all until it is too late. This causes situations like that of James Kang. He was told about his Hepatitis B infection as a young man but did nothing.
I ignored it, just like I ignored the knowledge that it would be better all around not to drink.
In his 60’s, he learned that he had inoperable liver cancer.
Organizations like Hep B Free are working to raise awareness and provide screenings. Hep B Free director Richard So says that universal screenings could eliminate Hepatitis B in a generation. Hepatitis B spreads through birth, blood, and sexual contact. For more information, check out these resources:
