Predictors of hepatitis C testing intention among African American Baby Boomers

Abstract

Baby Boomers (BBs) are responsible for three-quarters of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections in the United States; however, HCV testing is distinctly underused by them. A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the prevalence of HCV testing and to evaluate predictors of HCV testing intention among African-American BBs. The study was guided by the Health Belief Model and theory of reasoned action frameworks. Of the 137 participants included in the study, 44.8% had at least a college education; 13.9% received prior to 1992 blood transfusion. Findings related to HCV testing showed that 32.1% of the participants intended to test for HCV within 6months and 43.8% had received a previous HCV test. Significant predictors of HCV testing intention within 6months included having a blood transfusion prior to 1992 [odds ratio (OR)=8.25, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.02-33.61], perceptions of benefits (OR=1.57, 95% CI: 1.13-2.18), severity (OR=1.39, 95% CI: 1.17-1.65), and subjective norms (OR=1.42, 95% CI: 1.12-1.79). These predictors of HCV testing intention can be used to develop future HCV testing initiatives for African-American BBs.