Hepatitis B, liver cancer a Bay Area health tragedy hidden in plain sight'
Briefly

James Kang relocated to Milpitas with his family and later recognized health issues stemming from chronic hepatitis B. After ten years, he received a diagnosis of cirrhosis and a cancerous liver tumor. The virus often remains unnoticed until serious complications occur, particularly affecting Asian and Pacific Islander populations. They represent a substantial percentage of hepatitis B infections in the U.S. Awareness and preventative education efforts are critical to addressing this hidden health tragedy and reducing racial health disparities in affected communities.
James Kang moved from South Korea to Milpitas and faced health challenges related to chronic hepatitis B, highlighting the disparity in awareness and intervention among Asian Americans.
Many Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders are unaware of the high prevalence of chronic hepatitis B, with significant implications for health outcomes and mortality.
Chronic hepatitis B is often asymptomatic, leading to late diagnoses. By the time patients recognize issues, they face severe medical interventions and a high mortality rate.
Efforts are being made in the Bay Area to address the racial health disparities linked to hepatitis B through education and screenings in culturally appropriate languages.
Read at www.mercurynews.com
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