About Us

Reason for Establishment

Chronic hepatitis B virus infection affects a significant number of persons of Chinese descent worldwide. However, a substantial number of people in the greater Chinese community remain uninformed about viral hepatitis B regarding its mode of infection, transmission, and treatment options, thereby imposing challenges around work, lifestyle, and social interactions for those affected individuals.

For these reasons, there is a pressing need to address the knowledge gaps concerning hepatitis B within the Chinese community, ultimately raising awareness about these issues to foster a better understanding and support network for patients and families.

History of the Group

The Chinese Hepatitis B Peer Support Group was initiated by Colina Yim, a staff member of the Francis Family Liver Clinic at Toronto Western Hospital (now the Toronto Centre for Liver Disease), and a group of patients who attended the clinic. They unified over the common goal of creating a support group for hepatitis B patients.

Following the inaugural meeting in May 2007, the group has since regularly met every three months to foster friendships and discuss strategies to disseminate relevant information to individuals with hepatitis B and the broader communities. In early 2010, with the support of Dr. David Wong and many staff members, this group of enthusiasts decided to formally establish the “Chinese Hepatitis B Peer Support Group.”

Direction of Development

At the end of 2016, the Chinese Hepatitis B Peer Support Group moved from Toronto Western Hospital to Toronto General Hospital due to the amalgamation of the liver program within UHN. To date, the group has continued to advocate for the best medical care and provided consistent support for individuals with Hep B in GTA and the surrounding communities. Our main goal is to eliminate general misconceptions and fears around hepatitis B through education, community outreach, and health promotion. By doing so, our mission is to encourage hepatitis B patients to lead everyday lives and build a better future with their families.

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