China and Hepatitis B (1 Letter)
Published: May 14, 2006
To the Editor:
"New York Asians Face Hidden Risk" (front page, May 11) notes that scientists do not know why the hepatitis B virus is common in China relative to other countries in the region. The real reason for the high prevalence of the disease in China is not often talked about.
In its full swing into capitalism, the Chinese government has neglected its citizens. The disease can easily be prevented through vaccination, regulation of barbershop and manicure practices, and health education.
Unlike its neighbors, virtually no money is spent on such cost-effective interventions in China.
Peter Muennig, M.D.
New York, May 11, 2006
The writer is an assistant professor at the Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University
Published: May 14, 2006
To the Editor:
"New York Asians Face Hidden Risk" (front page, May 11) notes that scientists do not know why the hepatitis B virus is common in China relative to other countries in the region. The real reason for the high prevalence of the disease in China is not often talked about.
In its full swing into capitalism, the Chinese government has neglected its citizens. The disease can easily be prevented through vaccination, regulation of barbershop and manicure practices, and health education.
Unlike its neighbors, virtually no money is spent on such cost-effective interventions in China.
Peter Muennig, M.D.
New York, May 11, 2006
The writer is an assistant professor at the Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University