CHB Patient Group-initiated Programme to Improve Awareness, Adherence and Treatment Outcomes in Asia Pacific N. Leung 1 1 Founding Chairperson of ASIAHEP Background: Worldwide, over 400 million people live with chronic hepatitis B (CHB); 300 million in Asia Pacific. Regional survey data from 1,500 patients in 10 countries showed a lack of knowledge and understanding of CHB, its severity and impact on quality of life. This initiative aims to coordinate patient groups in the region and devise programmes to improve knowledge and healthcare outcomes. Methods: The patient groups met in Hong Kong in May 2008 and identified common needs to: (1) improve educational resources; (2) raise awareness; (3) increase diagnostic yield; and (4) enhance treatment compliance through education about the need for sustained viral suppression to reduce long-term complications. Results: A patient engagement programme was developed for people with newly diagnosed or known CHB. The programme comprises: -Detailed information about CHB -A health-tracking tool for self-monitoring of blood tests and treatment progress -Detailed information for carers/family -A patient-physician communications video (including role-play) -Mobile phone text messages providing advice and compliance/appointment reminders Conclusion: This programme was developed to address the needs of patients and clinicians. Improved knowledge and long-term support, particularly for patients on antiviral medication, is expected to improve quality of life. The programme encourages clinicians and patients to develop enduring therapeutic partnerships to promote optimal outcomes. Acknowledgement: The CHB patient group meetings and the patient engagement programme are supported by an unrestricted educational grant from GlaxoSmithKline.