Influence of language barrier and cultural background in Hepatitis B disease knowledge in a Chinese community of Spain.

Abstract

Abstract Background Hepatitis B infection is prevalent in patients of Asian origin. Due to language barriers and cultural differences, it is not always straightforward to evaluate disease knowledge in the liver clinics. We aimed to assess the current awareness on HBV (Hepatits B virus) infection and its mechanisms of transmission in HBV-infected Chinese patients and their household contacts. Methods HBV-infected Chinese patients and their household contacts were interviewed by a nurse (Chinese or native) about their knowledge on hepatitis B transmission mechanisms, use of preventive measures and vaccination status. Non-Chinese HBV-infected patients were defined as a control group. Results A total of 182 patients and 398 relatives/household contacts participated in the study. Eighty-five (48%) patients and 240 (60%) of household contacts were from China. Language barrier was documented in 80% of Chinese patients and 44% of their household contacts. Knowledge on parenteral and sexual HBV transmission was high (90%) in both groups of patients. However, Chinese patients were significantly more aware of vertical transmission (94% vs 68%, p < 0.01) and were more forewarned in the use of parenteral transmission measures (93% vs 74%; p < 0.01). No differences in preventive sexual measures were detected. Despite being less knowledgeable on horizontal and sexual HBV transmission compared to controls (86% vs 96% for parenteral; 81% vs 95% for sexual, p < 0.01),Chinese household contacts used preventive measures more frequently (79% vs 65% for horizontal transmission, p < 0.01). Vaccination coverage was lower in Chinese (78%) compared to control (86%) household contacts although the difference did not reach statistical significance. Conclusions Despite relevant language barriers, Chinese HBV-infected patients are well informed on the mechanisms of HBV transmission, particularly on the vertical route. Cultural differences may explain a higher use of preventive measures among the Chinese population. HBV vaccination of household contacts should be reinforced in both groups of individuals.