Exploring awareness and prevalence of chronic viral hepatitis in a UK based Nepali population - lessons learned for future models in engaging migrant communities.

INTRODUCTION

The burden of chronic viral hepatitis (CVH) in the UK Nepali population is unknown. We aimed to determine knowledge of liver disease (LD) and prevalence of CVH in this community.

METHODS

This was a mixed method (qualitative and quantitative) study guided by a multidisciplinary stakeholder group. Focus groups (FG) led by Nepali community leaders explored LD knowledge. Thereafter, a prospective community-based cohort study utilising dried-blood spot testing was conducted. Thematic analysis explored FG data with categorical data analysed with Excel and R Studio.

RESULTS

FG data showed a lack of LD knowledge, with conflict between the roles of traditional and modern practices; 1,005 participants (525 male, 480 female) were tested for CVH, with a mean age of 63 years (range:19-86). Rates of CVH infection were low: 0.3% had current hepatitis B, with no active hepatitis C.

DISCUSSION: Key drivers for enthusiastic participation were development of peer support networks and advisory groups to disseminate information, including hepatitis B vaccine recommendations.