Viral Hepatitis Among Asian Adults in the United States, 2011–2014

Hepatitis A (HAV), B (HBV), and C (HCV) viruses are common types of viral hepatitis. HBV and HCV infection can lead to liver disease, cancer, and serious health consequences. HAV and HBV infections are high among Asian persons, especially those born outside the United States.

An NCHS report provides 2011–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) estimates on prevalence of antibody to HAV (from infection or immunization), past or current HBV infection, and current HCV infection, by race and Hispanic origin.

Key Findings:

• Prevalence of antibody to HAV from infection or vaccination was higher among non-Hispanic Asian adults than non-Hispanic white and non-Hispanic black adults.
• Prevalence of both past or current HBV infection as well as just current active HBV infection was higher among non-Hispanic Asian adults than non-Hispanic white, non-Hispanic black, and Hispanic adults.
• Prevalence of current HCV virus infection among non-Hispanic Asian adults was lower than the other race and Hispanic groups.
• Prevalence of antibody to HAV from infection or vaccination was greater among non-Hispanic Asian adults born outside the United States than those who were U.S.-born. A similar pattern was seen for past or current HBV infection.