Demographic factors, knowledge, and experiences associated with engagement in care in Australians diagnosed with hepatitis B

Abstract Background The WHO 2030 elimination targets for hepatitis B include reducing new hepatitis infections by 90% and hepatitis B-related deaths by 65%. Post-diagnosis engagement in care is low and at rates inconsistent with achieving elimination. This descriptive study based on an exploratory survey aimed to identify the factors associated with engagement in care in Australians diagnosed with hepatitis B. Methods An online survey focused on understanding engagement in treatment and clinical monitoring was developed through co-design with people with living experience of hepatitis B. Participants were recruited through a peer-led online forum and the survey administered through Qualtrics. Results Of 248 respondents, 40% reported either non-regular engagement in care (> 1 year since last check-up) or had no engagement in care. Variables associated with regular engagement in care included: higher income; shorter travel distance to general practitioner; residence in metropolitan areas; and diagnosis within a hospital or general practitioner setting (compared to sexual health clinic, or community screening event). People who were not engaged in care were more likely to have poorer hepatitis B knowledge. Conclusions We have identified several demographic, knowledge, and experiences associated with hepatitis B care engagement. Our recruitment approach showed that peer-led approaches can access people diagnosed with hepatitis B but not engaged in care. These results could be used to specifically target these gaps with public health initiatives (including awareness campaigns and community support services).