High level of hepatitis B infection and ongoing risk among Asian/Pacific islander men who have sex with men, San Francisco, 2000-2001

Objectives: This study examined serologic markers of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and immunity among young Asian/Pacific Islander men who have sex with men (API MSM) in San Francisco. Methods: Participants were 496 API MSM, aged 18 to 29 years, recruited to participate in a cross-sectional survey using a random, venue-based, time-space sampling method. Results: Of 489 subjects tested, 28.0% had evidence of past HBV infection, including 8.2% who were chronically infected; 24.9% were immune as a result of vaccination; and 47.0% were susceptible to infection. Self-reported vaccination history was low overall and discrepant with serologic findings. Conclusions: HBV infection persists as a significant health problem among API MSM as a result of childhood infection, low vaccination coverage in Asia and the United States, and continuing adult exposure through male-male sex. Although challenging, vigorous efforts are needed to increase vaccination coverage among adult API MSM.