Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver and can present as either acute or chronic. Caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), this condition is considered one of the major global public health concerns due to its high transmission rate and potential complications, such as cirrhosis and liver cancer. Despite its severity, hepatitis B is a preventable disease through vaccination and proper protective measures.
What is Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is characterized by inflammation of the liver caused by HBV. In some cases, the immune system can fight off the virus naturally, leading to spontaneous recovery. In others, however, the virus remains active in the body, developing into a chronic infection and increasing the risk of serious complications.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is estimated that more than 250 million people worldwide live with chronic hepatitis B.
Modes of Transmission
HBV is primarily transmitted through contact with infected blood and other body fluids. The main routes of transmission include:
Sexual transmission: unprotected sexual intercourse
Blood contact: sharing needles, syringes, razors, or manicure tools
Vertical transmission: from mother to child during pregnancy or childbirth
Occupational exposure: accidents with sharp instruments in healthcare settings
Blood transfusions: rare today due to strict screening measures in blood banks
It is important to note that hepatitis B is not transmitted through hugging, kissing, sharing food, or casual social contact.
Symptoms of Hepatitis B
Many people infected with HBV show no early symptoms, which makes early diagnosis difficult. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
Extreme fatigue
Low-grade fever
Nausea and vomiting
Abdominal pain, especially on the right side
Dark urine
Pale or clay-colored stools
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
In chronic cases, the disease can remain silent for years, often being discovered only during routine tests or once it has progressed to cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer).
Diagnosis
Hepatitis B is diagnosed through blood tests that detect viral markers and antibodies. The main tests include:
HBsAg: indicates that the virus is present in the body
Anti-HBs: shows whether the person has developed immunity from infection or vaccination
Anti-HBc: indicates past exposure to the virus
In addition, imaging tests (such as ultrasound) and liver biopsy may be used to assess the extent of liver damage.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the type of hepatitis B:
Acute hepatitis B: usually does not require antiviral medications, only medical monitoring, rest, and hydration
Chronic hepatitis B: may require oral antiviral drugs, such as tenofovir and entecavir, which help control viral replication and reduce the risk of complications
Advanced cases: where the liver has already failed, a liver transplant may be necessary
Prevention
The most effective form of prevention is the hepatitis B vaccine, which is highly effective and recommended for everyone, especially newborns, healthcare workers, and people at higher risk. Other preventive measures include:
Consistent condom use during all sexual activity
Never sharing needles, razors, toothbrushes, or manicure tools
Use of disposable instruments in medical and cosmetic procedures
Proper prenatal care for pregnant women
Myths and Facts About Hepatitis B
Myth: Hepatitis B can be transmitted through social contact.
Fact: It is only spread through infected blood and body fluids.Myth: Once you have had hepatitis B, you cannot get it again.
Fact: Reinfection can occur if immunity does not develop or if the person is not vaccinated.Scientific curiosity: Recent research highlights progress in the use of immunotherapy and new antiviral combinations that may, in the future, lead to a functional cure for hepatitis B, significantly reducing the virus in the body.
Final Considerations
Hepatitis B is a serious but preventable and manageable disease. Vaccination, combined with protective measures, is the most powerful tool against the spread of the virus. Early diagnosis and proper medical monitoring are essential to avoid complications and improve the quality of life of those affected.
