Hepatitis B: A Silent Infection Affecting 296 Million People

A virus with multiple transmission routes

The hepatitis B virus (HBV) is transmitted through blood, unprotected sexual intercourse, and from mother to child during childbirth. According to health authorities, approximately 296 million people live with chronic hepatitis B worldwide, and 820,000 die from it each year, mainly from cirrhosis or liver cancer.

Often asymptomatic disease

Most infected adults spontaneously clear the virus. However, 5 to 10% develop a chronic form. Chronic infection can remain silent for 20 to 30 years while progressively damaging the liver. Late symptoms include fatigue, jaundice, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite.

Screening and diagnosis

A simple blood test (HBs antigen detection) is sufficient for screening. Liver function tests, liver ultrasound, and sometimes FibroScan assess liver condition. Screening is recommended for at-risk individuals: healthcare professionals, partners of carriers, travelers to endemic areas.

Treatment and vaccination

Antivirals (tenofovir, entotecavir) control viral replication and slow disease progression. Vaccination, over 95% effective, is the best means of prevention and is recommended for all infants from birth.