The high burden of comorbidities in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians living with chronic hepatitis B in Far North Queensland, Australia, and the implications for patient management.
Jordan RiddellAllison HempenstallYoko NakataSandra GregsonRichard HayesSimon SmithMarlow CoatesLizzie CharlieChristine PerrettVictoria NewieTomi NewieSharna RadlofJosh HansonPublished in: PloS one (2023)
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians living with chronic HBV in this region of remote Australia have a high engagement with HBV care and the majority of individuals eligible for antiviral therapy are receiving it. However, a significant comorbidity burden increases their risk of cirrhosis, HCC, and premature death. It is essential to integrate chronic HBV care with management of these comorbidities-rather than focusing on HBV alone-to achieve optimal health outcomes.