In the heart of San Francisco, a powerful health movement is transforming how communities understand and combat chronic hepatitis B, a disease that has long devastated Asian American populations.

Local health organizers have been pioneering a comprehensive approach to hepatitis B screening and treatment, driven by a profound commitment to community health and equity. Through collaborative efforts led by organizations like Hep B Free, medical professionals are now routinely offering universal screening, particularly in clinics serving immigrant populations.

The movement traces its roots to the early 2000s when a shocking wave of young Asian American deaths from hepatitis B galvanized local leaders and physicians into action. Stuart Fong, a founding coalition member, helped launch innovative free screening programs at Chinese Hospital, targeting not just children but also parents who might be unaware of their chronic infection.

Critically, the campaign goes beyond medical intervention, actively working to dismantle the pervasive stigma surrounding the disease. Personal stories like Tony Lau’s highlight the profound emotional impact of diagnosis and the importance of compassionate healthcare. Lau, now 45, has successfully suppressed his viral load but continues to face challenges like insurance discrimination.

Unfortunately, federal support for hepatitis B prevention has been dramatically reduced, with significant CDC funding cuts threatening critical research and tracking efforts. Patient advocate Wendy Lo, who has lived with chronic hepatitis B since 1991, emphasizes how these cuts could impede crucial progress in understanding and combating the disease.

Despite these challenges, San Francisco’s health advocates remain committed to building a comprehensive model of care that prioritizes prevention, education, and community empowerment. Their work represents a beacon of hope for addressing a complex health issue that has too often been overlooked.