What Is Hepatitis B?

This post was written with Consensus AI Academic Search Engine – please read our Disclaimer at the end of this article. Hepatitis B is a viral infection that causes inflammation of the liver. It is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), which spreads through contact with infected body fluids such as blood, semen, and vaginal fluids. The infection can be acute or chronic, with chronic cases posing a higher risk for severe liver diseases such as liver failure and liver cancer2.

Transmission

The hepatitis B virus is highly contagious and can be transmitted through various means, including:

• Blood transfusions and exposure to infected blood.
• Sexual contact with an infected person.
• Sharing needles or other drug-injection equipment.
• Mother-to-child transmission during childbirth2.

Symptoms

The symptoms of hepatitis B can vary depending on whether the infection is acute or chronic:

• Acute Hepatitis B: Symptoms may include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), fatigue, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and joint pain. These symptoms typically appear within one to four months after exposure to the virus.
• Chronic Hepatitis B: Many people with chronic hepatitis B remain asymptomatic for years. However, chronic infection can lead to serious liver conditions such as cirrhosis (scarring of the liver) and hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer)2.

Diagnosis

Hepatitis B is diagnosed through blood tests that detect the presence of HBV DNA, hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), and hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg). These tests help determine whether the infection is acute or chronic and assess the level of viral replication and liver damage2.

Epidemiology

Hepatitis B is a major global health concern, with more than 2 billion people worldwide having evidence of past or current HBV infection. Chronic hepatitis B affects approximately 240 million people globally, making it one of the most common causes of chronic liver disease3.

Prevention

Preventive measures for hepatitis B include:

• Vaccination: The hepatitis B vaccine is highly effective in preventing HBV infection. It is typically administered in a series of three or four shots over six months. The vaccine induces protective antibodies against the hepatitis B surface antigen, providing long-term immunity1 3 6.
• Safe Practices: Avoiding sharing needles, practicing safe sex, and ensuring blood products are screened for HBV can significantly reduce the risk of transmission4.

Conclusion

Hepatitis B is a serious viral infection that can lead to chronic liver disease and liver cancer. Understanding its transmission, symptoms, and preventive measures is crucial for controlling its spread and reducing its impact on global health. Vaccination remains the most effective method of prevention, offering long-term protection against the virus.

Disclaimer

The content presented in this blog is generated by Consensus, an AI-powered academic search engine, and is based on publicly available scientific literature. While every effort is made to provide accurate, up-to-date, and well-researched information, the content is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding medical conditions, treatments, or medications. The AI system’s analysis may not cover all perspectives, emerging research, or individual cases, and it is not a substitute for professional expertise. Neither the blog publisher nor the developers of the AI-powered search engine are responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this content. Use of this information is at your own risk. Citations to the original scientific studies are included for reference, but these studies should be reviewed in full and interpreted with the guidance of a healthcare or research professional.

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