What is Chronic Hepatitis B?
Chronic Hepatitis B is a long-term infection of the liver caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). It is a major global health problem that can lead to liver disease, liver failure, and liver cancer. The infection becomes chronic when the body's immune system fails to clear the virus from the blood within six months.
How Prevalent is Chronic Hepatitis B?
The prevalence of Chronic Hepatitis B varies significantly across different regions. Globally, it is estimated that around 292 million people are living with chronic HBV infection. The highest prevalence is observed in the Western Pacific and African regions, with intermediate and low prevalence in other parts of the world.
Perinatal transmission from mother to child during childbirth
Horizontal transmission through contact with infected blood or body fluids
Unsafe medical practices, such as the reuse of syringes
Sharing of needles among intravenous drug users
Unprotected sexual contact with an infected person
Who is at Risk?
Certain populations are at higher risk for chronic Hepatitis B infection. These include:
Infants born to HBV-infected mothers
People with multiple sexual partners
Healthcare workers exposed to blood and body fluids
Intravenous drug users
Individuals living in endemic areas
What are the Clinical Manifestations?
Many individuals with chronic Hepatitis B are asymptomatic, meaning they do not exhibit symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they may include fatigue, jaundice, abdominal pain, and dark urine. Chronic infection can lead to serious complications such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.
How is Chronic Hepatitis B Diagnosed?
Diagnosis of chronic Hepatitis B involves serological tests to detect HBV antigens and antibodies. The presence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in the blood for more than six months indicates chronic infection. Additional tests, such as liver function tests and liver biopsy, may be performed to assess the extent of liver damage.
What are the Treatment Options?
While there is no cure for chronic Hepatitis B, antiviral medications can help control the virus and reduce the risk of liver disease. Commonly used antiviral drugs include tenofovir and entecavir. Regular monitoring and liver function tests are essential for managing the disease effectively.
Universal vaccination, particularly in infants and high-risk groups
Screening of blood and organ donors
Safe injection practices
Use of barrier protection during sexual activity
Education and awareness campaigns
What is the Global Burden?
The global burden of chronic Hepatitis B is significant, contributing to substantial morbidity and mortality worldwide. It is estimated that chronic HBV infection leads to approximately 887,000 deaths annually, primarily due to complications like cirrhosis and liver cancer. Efforts to control and eliminate HBV are vital for reducing this burden.
Conclusion
Chronic Hepatitis B poses a serious public health challenge, requiring coordinated efforts in prevention, early diagnosis, and effective management. By understanding the epidemiology of the disease, we can implement targeted interventions to reduce its impact and improve health outcomes globally.
