American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

Which demographic group is associated with an increased risk for HCC in HBV patients?

1. Asian men older than 40 years

2. Women under 30 years

3. Caucasian women older than 50 years

4. Hispanic men over 60 years

The correct answer is: Asian men older than 40 years

Asian men older than 40 years are recognized as a demographic group with a significantly increased risk for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) among patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. This association is supported by several epidemiological studies that demonstrate a higher incidence of HCC in Asian populations, particularly in men over the age of 40, due to various factors such as higher prevalence of HBV, genetic susceptibility, and environmental factors contributing to liver disease. Chronic HBV infection is a major risk factor for the development of liver cancer, and the risk escalates with age and the male gender. Asian males have been found to have a particularly high incidence rate of HCC, making them a key group for targeted surveillance and preventive measures. Other demographic groups, such as women under 30 years, Caucasian women over 50 years, and Hispanic men over 60 years, do not have the same established risk associations for HCC in the context of HBV, which is why they do not match the profile of individuals who would be prioritized for monitoring.