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Watch the video to learn more about hepatitis B and what you need to do to protect you and your family.
About Hepatitis B
What is chronic hepatitis B?
Chronic hepatitis B is a serious long-term disease that results from infection with the hepatitis B virus. Chronic hepatitis B damages the liver and, if the disease is not treated properly, it can lead to severe medical complications, including liver failure, liver cancer, or even death.
What are the symptoms of chronic hepatitis B?
Many people with chronic hepatitis B have no symptoms, even as the liver becomes damaged. In fact, hepatitis B is known as the "silent killer," because many people infected with the disease do not know they are infected.
How is chronic hepatitis B managed?
Chronic hepatitis B can be managed and serious complications may be prevented. People with chronic hepatitis B should be monitored regularly for signs of liver disease and evaluated for possible treatment. Several medications are approved for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B that can reduce the amount of virus in your blood and may help keep your liver healthier.
How is hepatitis B spread?
Hepatitis B is spread when blood, semen, or other body fluid infected with the hepatitis B virus enters the body of a person who is not infected. People can become infected with the virus during activities such as:
- Birth (spread from an infected mother to her baby during birth)
- Sex with an infected partner
- Sharing needles, syringes, or other drug-injection equipment
- Sharing items such as razors or toothbrushes with an infected person
- Direct contact with the blood or open sores of an infected person
- Exposure to blood from needlesticks or other sharp instruments
Most Asian Americans with chronic hepatitis B acquired their infection at birth.
Who is at risk for hepatitis B?
Although anyone can get hepatitis B, some people are at greater risk. Ask your doctor about hepatitis B screening if you or your parents were born in any country in Asia, have close contact with a hepatitis B-infected person, have been exposed to blood or bodily fluids, or have elevated liver enzymes. Other risk factors for hepatitis B infection exist, so talk to your doctor to assess your personal risk.
Can hepatitis B be prevented?
Yes. The best way to decrease your risk of hepatitis B is by getting the hepatitis B vaccine. The hepatitis B vaccine is safe and effective and is usually given as 3 shots over a 6-month period.
How will I know if I have hepatitis B?
Talk to your healthcare provider. Since many people with hepatitis B do not have symptoms, doctors diagnose the disease by one or more blood tests. These tests can help determine whether you have hepatitis B infection, are immune to the virus, or could benefit from vaccination.
