Hepatitis B: A Silent Killer

Mrs. Johnson hastily drove down to see her family physician, Dr. Emeka, after her husband revealed that he had been diagnosed with liver cancer due to longstanding hepatitis B.

What is Hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B is a potentially life-threatening infection of the liver caused by the hepatitis B virus. The virus can be transmitted through contact with blood and bodily fluids of infected persons, as well as from a pregnant woman to her baby. 

Hepatitis B is a global problem. As of 2015, the World Health Organization reported that 257 million people were living with hepatitis B; and that same year, hepatitis B killed more than 887,000 people – mostly from liver cancer and cirrhosis.

How can someone contract hepatitis B?

• Unprotected sexual intercourse
• Having multiple sexual partners.
• Needlestick injury
• Intravenous drug use
• Tattooing
• Sharing razors and other sharp objects

In most adults, hepatitis B resolves spontaneously; however, those who develop chronic hepatitis B may have to be placed on =antiviral medicines for the rest of their lives since it has no cure. 

Hepatitis B is preventable through vaccination 

This vaccine series is recommended for those at risk of the infection, including close-contacts of infected persons, people with multiple sexual partners, healthcare workers, and travelers to endemic areas. 

Even if you do not fall into this high-risk groups, you should ask your doctor about hepatitis B. It may be advisable to get tested at least. Also ask your children’s doctor to see whether they should be vaccinated as many countries vaccinate all children.

Liver cirrhosis and cancer are some of the potential end results of hepatitis B. In the early stages, affected persons usually may not have signs and symptoms. However, when symptoms appear, they often include:

• Loss of appetite
• Unexplained weight loss
• General body weakness
• Nausea and vomiting 
• Abdominal pain
• Abdominal swelling
• Yellow discoloration of the white part of the eyes (jaundice).

Take-Home Message: Hepatitis B is a potentially life-threatening infection of the liver caused by the hepatitis B virus.  Hepatitis B causes damage to the liver without the individual knowing and it may not produce symptoms in its early stages. In some persons, it progresses into a chronic disease that is incurable and potentially fatal. Hepatitis B can be prevented through vaccination or kept controlled with antiviral medication.