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Category Archives: About Hepatitis B

300 Million Reasons, About Hepatitis B, HBV, Hepatitis Awareness Month, Hepatitis B Awareness, Hepatitis B Diagnosis & Monitoring, Hepatitis B Prevention, United States

Partner Highlight: Philadelphia Department of Public Health’s Viral Hepatitis Program Makes Great Strides Towards Elimination!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Happy Hepatitis Awareness Month! Continue reading to get to know the Viral Hepatitis Program at the Philadelphia Department of Public Health (PDPH)!  

The Viral Hepatitis Program at PDPH strives to support Philadelphia residents and service providers in several ways, including preventing viral hepatitis infection through education, screening, and vaccination; improving and providing access to affordable treatment; and supporting provider efforts to provide comprehensive viral hepatitis care/treatment. There are many tools that exist to prevent and treat viral hepatitis infections, and even cure them in the case of hepatitis C. Access to these services, however, is not readily available for everyone. The Viral Hepatitis Program aims to increase access and reduce inequities in care through collaborations and programming, in hopes of achieving the 2030 goal of hepatitis B and hepatitis C elimination.  

The Viral Hepatitis Program performs a number of exciting projects to achieve this work! 

 

 

 

Patient Engagement 

Many members of the Viral Hepatitis Program spend their days interacting with patients over the phone. Public health surveillance allows the program to work with hepatitis B and hepatitis C patients to provide individualized support. This outreach provides patients with viral hepatitis education, linkage-to-care, and care navigation along with access to harm reduction materials, support for substance use disorder care, and additional resources. 

 

 

 

 

 

Above: Viral Hepatitis team member, Cassandra Lamadieu, provides viral hepatitis educational materials to community members in attendance at the 2023 Philadelphia Block Captain Rally. 

 

Philly InSync: Provider Engagement  

Through collaborations within PDPH and with a partner organization, the Philly InSync Project provides education and technical assistance to healthcare providers and facilities to integrate harm reduction, substance use disorder care, and care for infectious diseases related to drug use. Philly InSync works with multiple sites to provide testing, care, and treatment of hepatitis B, hepatitis C and other infectious disease care while also providing technical assistance including staff trainings, data improvement strategies, and reducing barriers to care. A technical advisory committee of Philadelphia providers meets quarterly to provide enhanced technical assistance to these sites while learning how to improve the care they provide as well. The program elevates conversations among Philadelphia providers and creates a collaborative community to learn, listen, and share experiences, challenges, and solutions that involve anything from clinical experiences to insurance barriers.   

Pharmacy Project: Increasing Hepatitis A & B Vaccination 

Another project to increase viral hepatitis prevention efforts is the Pharmacy Project, which is focused on improving pharmacy-based vaccination for hepatitis A & B. Annually, the Viral Hepatitis Program conducts a survey of pharmacies in Philadelphia to collect information about hepatitis A and B vaccination services. The survey results are shared with the community on a map that allows patients and providers to find vaccinating pharmacies. The data collected is also used to identify barriers to vaccine access, to inform additional activities to support patients, providers, and pharmacists. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Social Media 

To engage the community and to promote collaboration, the program runs several social media accounts and provides up-to-date information and resources. To access information on vaccine events, mobile health clinics, and many other health services follow along at the links below! Make sure to follow along during the month of May for some special Hepatitis Awareness Month content!  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Philadelphia Hepatitis B & Hepatitis C Elimination Plan 

The Viral Hepatitis Program and local partners and community members have worked together to create a plan for the elimination of hepatitis B and hepatitis C in Philadelphia. To see information on this process visit: Philadelphia Hepatitis B & Hepatitis C Elimination Plan Community Engagement Executive Summary. Striving to eliminate the impact of these infections from Philadelphia is not a new effort, as a committed community of viral hepatitis eliminators has been hard at work for quite some time. Hep B United – Philadelphia and The Hepatitis C Allies of Philadelphia (HepCAP) are the two local coalitions made up of individuals and organizations committed to viral hepatitis elimination. While much has been accomplished, PDPH and the local community of eliminators are continuing the work to provide services to educate, prevent, vaccinate, test, link-to-care, and treat these two diseases in Philadelphia. The Plan will be released in 2023. 

 

To learn more about viral hepatitis or for any questions… 

Websites: Phillyhepatitis.org & Hepcap.org 

Email: hep-ddc@phila.gov 

To order educational materials: bit.ly/hepeducationalmaterials  

About Hepatitis B, HBV, Hepatitis B Awareness, Liver, Liver Cancer, Liver Health, Living with Hepatitis B

Understanding the Impact of Drinking Alcohol on Liver Health

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

April is Alcohol Awareness Month!  

Hepatitis B is a virus that can damage the liver. The liver is a critical organ in the human body and is responsible for energizing cells, removing toxins and waste, and strengthening the immune system. It is most commonly understood as the body’s primary filtering system and storage unit. Alcohol consumption has been shown to cause serious problems for the liver as it overwhelms the liver’s ability to carry out important tasks. 

Important Functions of the Liver: 

Bile Production: Bile is a greenish liquid released from the liver and into the gallbladder (a small sac located under the liver which stores bile) that helps to break down fats so they can be used by the body. The liver produces and cleans bile so that it can move through the small intestine. Bile also helps to remove some toxins and waste products such as excess cholesterol (a type of fat necessary for digestion and healthy cells) and bilirubin (a yellow substance made from old red blood cells) to keep your immune system healthy and clean. Even though cholesterol is an important substance, excess amounts of cholesterol can clog the bloodstream and cause serious problems like heart disease. This is why the liver removes unwanted cholesterol from the body. Similarly, bilirubin is made during the production of bile and is a waste product of old and broken-down red blood cells. A healthy liver can filter out and remove bilirubin from the body. High amounts of bilirubin may indicate damage to the liver or serious liver disease. 

Natural Detoxification: The liver is most notably known for its natural detox system, which is one of its most important functions. The liver removes toxins, foreign substances, and harmful waste from the bloodstream such as alcohol, drugs, and other chemicals through different ways. Depending on the substance, it may remove the toxin through bile, break it down into safer substances so the toxins don’t cause harm. The liver can even store the toxins, so the rest of the body is safe. It is important to understand that, even though the liver has a remarkable filtering system, it has limits and should not be put under excess stress.  

Blood Glucose Regulation: Glucose is a sugar molecule and the most important source of energy for your body. Glucose enters the body through foods high in carbohydrates, such as grains, potatoes and fruits. During the digestive process, glucose molecules from foods are broken down and used by the body to energize cells and maintain the most basic yet critical functions of the immune system. Glucose turns into blood glucose or blood sugar when it travels through the bloodstream. For glucose to be used as energy by the cells, it needs assistance from insulin (a hormone released by the pancreas), which helps it move around and get to the cells. Think of insulin as the key and glucose as the lock. The key opens the lock to the door. Similarly, insulin opens the door so that glucose can get inside the cells and provide energy. High levels of blood glucose and the inability to produce or use insulin properly can result in diabetes. Even though glucose comes from food, the human body can use the liver to produce its own glucose. The liver is basically the storage unit for glucose, saving it for use at a later time in the form of glycogen. Glycogen or stored glucose is released on an “as– needed basis.” When the body is running low on glucose, the liver uses fats to provide energy and saves the remainder of the glucose for the most important organs that need sugar for energy, such as the brain and kidneys.  

Alcohol Consumption and the Liver: 

Alcohol is a toxic substance and is known to cause a powerful effect on the brain’s ability to understand and process information because the brain is a very sensitive organ. This is why alcohol can be so addictive for some people. It causes chemical effects (excess release of dopamine, a hormone that makes you feel good) in the brain, which can lead to addiction. Increased intake of alcohol is also linked to several health issues such as cancer, heart disease, digestive problems and liver disease. Alcohol use is also associated with injuries such as fatal car crashes and alcohol overdose.  

Since the liver is the body’s natural detox system, alcohol consumption disrupts the liver from carrying out its most important tasks. For example, the liver’s role is to remove alcohol from the blood. Breaking down ethanol (found in alcohol) causes some liver cells to die. The liver is able to make new cells but too much alcohol or long-term use can reduce the ability to make repairs. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines more than two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women to be excessive alcohol use. Drinking too much inflames the liver and disrupts its filtering system. Damaged and weakened liver cells are unable to remove the toxins from alcohol from the blood. When liver cells are destroyed, they are unable to carry out the other important tasks such as producing bile, making proteins and storing glucose.  

The most common type of alcohol– related disease is fatty liver. This is when excess amounts of fat are found in the liver. This causes the liver to swell, and overtime may cause inflammation or cirrhosis (scarring of the liver). Any damage to the liver cells, whether it’s through swelling, inflammation, or scarring, disrupts the liver’s ability to carry out its most essential functions. Cirrhosis or scarring of the liver is the most dangerous thing that can happen to the liver. It means that healthy liver tissue and cells are now being replaced by scar tissue from liver damage. The symptoms of liver damage from alcohol use may consist of fever, vomiting, nausea, jaundice, abdominal pain, fatigue and loss of appetite. This process is not sudden and usually takes a long time to happen. However, symptoms and signs may not always be present.  

What People Living with Hepatitis B Should Know About Drinking Alcohol? 

People living with hepatitis B should know that the liver is already weakened by the virus. The hepatitis B virus attacks the healthy liver cells and tissue and causes inflammation. Alcohol use can result in more problems and can put greater stress on the liver. It can speed up the harm to the liver, resulting in serious liver disease. It can lower the body’s ability to defend itself from foreign invaders, such as other viruses and bacteria. Studies have shown that alcohol intake can result in rapid HBV replication, further increasing the risk of cirrhosis and liver disease.  

Love your Liver! 

In a recently published statement by the World Health Organization, it was found that “no amount of alcohol is safe when it comes to health.” It is important to understand that alcohol, whether little or much, is a toxin and puts the liver at the highest risk as the liver is the natural detox for unwanted and harmful substances. The liver does a lot to keep our bodies protected from harm and acts as a natural defense. But, like people, the liver can also experience burnout. It is very important to keep our liver healthy, safe, and away from harm! 

References: 

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/alcoholinduced-liver-disease 

https://www.verywellhealth.com/definition-of-bile-1759867 

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470209/ 

https://dtc.ucsf.edu/types-of-diabetes/type1/understanding-type-1-diabetes/how-the-body-processes-sugar/the-liver-blood-sugar/#:~:text=When%20you’re%20not%20eating%20%E2%80%93%20especially%20overnight%20or%20between%20meals,in%20a%20process%20called%20glycogenolysis. 

https://columbiasurgery.org/liver/liver-and-its-functions#:~:text=The%20liver%20filters%20all%20of,fats%20and%20carry%20away%20waste. 

http://hepctrust.org.uk/information/liver/detoxification 

https://www.who.int/europe/news/item/04-01-2023-no-level-of-alcohol-consumption-is-safe-for-our-health#:~:text=The%20risks%20and%20harms%20associated,that%20does%20not%20affect%20health. 

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7081008/#:~:text=Hepatitis%20B%20virus%20(HBV)%20and,allows%20HBV%20to%20persist%20chronically. 

https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/effects-of-alcohol-on-your-health-and-liver 

About Hepatitis B, HBV, Hepatitis B Awareness, Hepatitis B Diagnosis & Monitoring, Hepatitis B Prevention, Uncategorized, United States

Hepatitis B and Injection Drug Use: Risks, Barriers to Care, and Prevention Strategies

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hepatitis B is a liver infection which is caused by the hepatitis B Virus (HBV). Hepatitis B is transmitted from person to person through blood, semen, or other bodily fluids. You can learn more about the ways hepatitis B is spread here. People who inject drugs (PWID) are at high risk for contracting the virus due to the sharing of needles and low  awareness and education about hepatitis B.

HBV Prevalence among PWID Communities

People who inject drugs (PWID) are at high risk for hepatitis B virus infection due to various factors, including sharing injection equipment and lack of awareness about hepatitis B transmission. Using unclean needles to inject drugs can result in the exchange of blood. This increases a person’s risk of being exposed to the virus. Hepatitis B prevalence among PWID is much higher than in the general population. Chronic HBV infection has been identified in 3.5% to 20.0% of PWID in a variety of settings, and 22.6% of PWID have evidence of past infection (Haber & Schillie, 2021). Drug injection is the most common risk for persons ages 18-40 years old with hepatitis B virus. 

Barriers to Care for PWID Communities

Access to treatment can be a significant barrier for PWID, who may face stigma and discrimination in healthcare settings. To find out if someone has hepatitis B it is recommended that a triple panel hepatitis B test be run (which includes HBsAg, HBcAb and HBsAb). These tests will help identify people with hepatitis B, a previous exposure to hepatitis B and those who have protection against hepatitis B infection (through vaccination). For those with hepatitis B, treatment options for hepatitis B consist of antiviral medications that can help to control the virus and reduce the risk of serious liver damage, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Treatment is taken daily for life generally. PWID lack access to these treatments due to the stigma attached with substance use and addiction. Some of these stigmas include being associated with dangerous, unpredictable, and lacking self-control (NIH, 2019). In a recent study, 88% of individuals from PWID have experienced some type of stigma from the healthcare system (NIH, 2019).  Some of these stigmas included being poorly treated in healthcare facilities while interacting with nurses, security guards, and other medical providers. Due to these biases, people often refuse to seek health care services to avoid mistreatment. Stigma is the top barrier for PWID communities worldwide (Biancarelli et al, 2019). Even though the cost of treatment may be a barrier for some people, there are resources to find affordable options. Learn more about accessing medication here. 

Prevention Strategies

One effective prevention strategy to combat the spread of hepatitis B among PWID is to use clean injection equipment, like needles, works, and syringes. This will reduce the likelihood of transmission. New services have been introduced in cities like Philadelphia to decrease the rate of sharing needles. Prevention Point Philadelphia for example is a nonprofit public health organization that works to provide comprehensive harm reduction services to Philadelphia and surrounding areas. The syringe service program specifically allows used syringes to be exchanged for clean ones. With these services, the need to share needles can decline, which then can help decrease the risk of hepatitis B and other infectious diseases being spread in the community. Needle and syringe programs also provide other social and health services, such as counseling,  hepatitis testing, and referral to drug treatment for example.

Another way to prevent hepatitis B in PWID is through education and outreach efforts to help raise awareness about the risks of transmission and how to reduce those risks. This will also encourage safer injection practices to reduce the risk of transmission through blood contact. Other recommendations for prevention of hepatitis B among people who inject drugs is to offer vaccinations for PWID communities. The hepatitis B vaccine is safe and effective and recommended for all adults in the US between the ages of 18-59 and above 59 with risk factors. Testing is another great way to help the community- to identify infection and encourage prevention through vaccination ultimately preventing liver cancer in the long run. Offering people who inject drugs incentives to increase uptake and complete the vaccination schedule is also a way to prevent hepatitis B in PWID (WHO, 2023).  The United States has set a goal to decrease the number of cases of hepatitis B in the PWID community. The National Progress Report goal is to reduce the rate of new hepatitis B virus infections among people who inject drugs by more than 25% by 2025 (CDC, 2020). 

 

To learn more about the resources provided by Prevention Point, click here.

 

References:

World Health Organization. (2022, June 24). Hepatitis B. World Health Organization. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hepatitis-b

World Health Organization. (2015, March). Guidelines for the prevention, care and treatment of persons with chronic hepatitis B infection. World Health Organization. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241549059

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020, August 11). NP report 2025 goal: Reduced HBV rate among PWID. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved March 15, 2023, from https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/policy/NPR/2020/NationalProgressReport-HepB-ReduceInfectionsPWID.htm

Biancarelli DL, Biello KB, Childs E, Drainoni M, Salhaney P, Edeza A, Mimiaga MJ, Saitz R, Bazzi AR. Strategies used by people who inject drugs to avoid stigma in healthcare settings. Drug Alcohol Depend. 2019 May 1;198:80-86. doi: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2019.01.037. Epub 2019 Mar 8. PMID: 30884432; PMCID: PMC6521691.

Haber, P., & Schillie, S. (2021, August 18). Pinkbook: Hepatitis B. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved March 24, 2023, from https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/pinkbook/hepb.html 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, March 17). QuickStats: Age-adjusted drug overdose death rates, by state – National Vital Statistics System, United States, 2021. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved March 19, 2023, from https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/72/wr/mm7211a7.htm?s_cid=mm7211a7_e&ACSTrackingID=USCDC_921-DM101471&ACSTrackingLabel=This+Week+in+MMWR+-+Vol.+72%2C+March+17%2C+2023&deliveryName=USCDC_921-DM101471

Board of Health, Department of Public Health. (2022, October 26). Health Department releases data on 2021 overdose deaths in Philadelphia: Department of Public Health. City of Philadelphia. Retrieved March 20, 2023, from https://www.phila.gov/2022-10-26-health-department-releases-data-on-2021-overdose-deaths-in-philadelphia/

300 Million Reasons, About Hepatitis B, advocacy, Hepatitis B Advocacy, Hepatitis B Awareness, Living with Hepatitis B

The Purpose and Process of Storytelling

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you live in the U.S. and want to learn how to share YOUR hepatitis B story in a powerful and effective way to help raise awareness, educate communities, and inspire action around hepatitis B, consider applying to our next #justB digital storytelling workshop!  

The #justB campaign empowers people with lived experience to share their story and use their voice to help increase awareness and advocacy around hepatitis B, combat stigma and discrimination, and encourage more people to get tested, vaccinated, and/or linked to care and treatment. Beginning in 2017, the Hepatitis B Foundation has partnered with StoryCenter to host six #justB digital storytelling workshops for over 41 participants from across 22 states in the U.S. and Canada. The #justB campaign includes stories that have been translated and published in 13 languages in addition to English – Mandarin, Cantonese, Vietnamese, Korean, Arabic, French, Mandingo, Twi, Yoruba, Tagalog, Khmer, Mongolian, and Chuukese.  

Attending a #justB digital storytelling workshop is a unique and uplifting experience that brings together people directly affected by hepatitis B in a supportive, small group environment (no more than 10 participants), where they can feel free to share openly about their experiences while learning to create short videos or “digital stories” in their own words. During the workshops, participants are guided through a “Story Circle” activity, receive feedback on selecting specific parts of their story to develop their script around, record a voiceover, gather photos and video clips, and combine these materials into short videos around 3-4 minutes long. After the workshops, participants become part of a growing community of more than 40 other storytellers who receive ongoing communications, resources, and opportunities to stay connected and engaged in hepatitis B advocacy and education.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The storytellers gather around for a storytelling workshop.

 

Over the years since the initial launch of #justB, we have seen just how powerful storytelling is, and how personal stories can be used to promote greater awareness, openness, and discussion around an often stigmatized disease like hepatitis B. We have also learned that the process of storytelling – and participation in storytelling workshops – has a positive and lasting impact on storytellers themselves.  

For example, the following quotes (collected from storyteller interviews and audience surveys) highlight the impact that the #justB campaign has had on participants and viewers. 

Quotes from storytellers about their experience: 

  • “In the weeks after the workshop, I felt a lot more hopeful and supported.”  
  • “It was an awesome, life-changing experience and I look forward to doing more work with the Hepatitis B Foundation and various other organizations to raise Hepatitis B awareness and prevention.” 
  • “This storytelling workshop was a true blessing for me personally. Before, I felt isolated and disconnected. After the workshop and getting to know how Hep B has affected others, I feel a great sense of family and inclusion. My true hope is that our stories can change how others not affected view those who are and that more emphasis would be placed on the treatment and cure for this condition.” 
  • “I remember feeling very lonely when I first got diagnosed. I was, I don’t know, a leper or something but then to hear other people having gone through that same fear and that same sort of feeling of isolation, just super impactful. It made you recognize that this doesn’t have to be a lonely or solitary thing. There are other people who have the same struggles and experience the same fear, I guess, that you did. That was incredibly powerful, and definitely something that I didn’t know I was missing that.” 
  • “The workshop definitely changed my perspective on the power of storytelling for mental health.”  

Quotes from story viewers / audience members:  

  • “I really enjoyed the personal stories. Hearing first person experiences re: HBV has such a significant impact and realism that is not accessible when approaching the topic from a clinical or third person perspective. It’s very sad but powerful to hear the experiences re: stigma, isolation, perseverance, and how they are fighting for their families, friends, and others.” 
  • “It was very informative. I came in not understanding what it really was. Now I understand how important vaccinations are. It is an important topic to discuss, and I want to let my friends and family know how serious the problem is.” 
  • “The stories were extremely powerful. That paired with data and key messages [was] a very effective presentation.” 
  • “JustB storytelling was very moving! The diversity in storytellers was great.” 
  • “Very touching, impactful and inspirational! Thank you to all the storytellers for your bravery!”  
  • “The storytelling was wonderful. I will definitely be using the stories in our education and awareness outreach.”  

 

 

 

 

 

A postcard featuring quotes from the Dai’s Story.

 

Learn more about our current storytellers at www.hepb.org/justb. To apply for the workshop, fill out this form: https://storycenter.wufoo.com/forms/zyu5qsb02lscca. We accept and review applications on a rolling basis until all spots are filled.  

The next #justB workshop will take place this summer 2023 (tentatively in late July or August) and will be held in either Washington, DC or in the Doylestown/Philadelphia area. All travel, accommodations, and meals will be coordinated and paid for by the Hepatitis B Foundation. Participants will also receive a honorarium for completing the workshop.  

The Hepatitis B Foundation recently launched a new website for our storytelling campaign. Visit https://www.hepbstories.org/ to learn more!

If you have any questions or feedback, please contact Rhea Racho, Program Director – Advocacy and Engagement at rhea.racho@hepb.org. 

300 Million Reasons, About Hepatitis B, HBV, Hepatitis B Awareness, Hepatitis B Prevention, Liver, Liver Health

Team Helpatitis: Students and Teachers Come Together to Raise Awareness of Hepatitis B in India! 

 

Hepatitis B is a critical public health crisis in India.  With over 40 million HBV carriers, it is estimated that over 115,000 people die each year from hepatitis B related causes and one million newborn babies are at risk of developing hepatitis B in India. 1 

In an effort to raise awareness for hepatitis B and contribute to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) viral hepatitis elimination plan, teachers and students at Amity International School in New Delhi, India launched Team Helpatitis to promote hepatitis B education.. Science teachers have integrated hepatitis B education in their extra-curricular activities to teach students about chronic hepatitis and liver health. School events and festivals have provided unique opportunities for students, teachers, and parents to come together and learn about the importance of prevention strategies like hepatitis B screenings in making India hepatitis free!  

Diwali Lamps Bring Hope and Awareness to the hepatitis B Cause in India 

During the month of Diwali, a religious festival of lights, Team Helpatitis students designed liver shaped oil lamps to promote awareness. These lamps are made from clay pots and are lit every year on Diwali to represent the transition from darkness into light in the coming new year. Students and teachers hope to combat the stigma and misconceptions associated with hepatitis B though these lamps. The lamps were distributed to school students and teachers to bring home and share the important message of hope and resilience with their friends and families. 

 

 

 

 

 

The liver shaped lamps were sculpted, packaged, and distributed by the students and teachers to raise awareness of hepatitis B during the Diwali festivities at their school.

Pin-O-Liv: Dart Throwing Competition to Understand the Difference between Good and Bad Liver Habits! 

The Winter Carnival at Amity International provided a platform for students to showcase their learning outside of the classroom and educate attendees about healthy and unhealthy habits for their liver. The students chose an interactive sport to keep the players informed and entertained. They created a dartboard with pictures representing good and bad lifestyle habits and their impact on the liver. Before the game, players were briefed on liver health and ways to keep the liver healthy and safe. Players were given five darts and challenged to hit the images with unhealthy habits.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Students participate in the dart-throwing competition to “kill” the bad habits that destroy our liver

Livbola: Students reinvent tambola to promote hepatitis B education among children and adults 

Tambola is a slightly different version of Bingo and is a beloved pastime of south Asian communities. The students were given a short presentation on hepatitis B and liver cancer. They were then introduced to the rules of the game and were quizzed on questions related to hepatitis and liver health. Prizes were distributed to players to encourage participation. The players included students, school staff, and community members.

 

 

 

 

 

 

School staff, students, and parents play the Livbola game during their annual winter carnival

The Hepatitis B Foundation was recently approached by the teachers at Team Helpatitis for a live session on hepatitis B. The Foundation met with the students and teachers via zoom a few weeks ago and discussed the physical, social, and financial impact of hepatitis B.  We also discussed the importance of preventative strategies like vaccines in promoting positive health outcomes for all communities.  

 

 

 

 

 

The students and teachers of Amity International School met with the Foundation for an introductory session on hepatitis B on zoom.

 

By participating in these activities, projects, and festivities with the help of their school’s leadership and administration, Team Helpatitis has expanded their reach beyond the classroom and amplified the voices of public health workers, advocates, and people living with hepatitis B! Check out Team Helpatitis’ social media channels to stay updated! 

Team Helpatitis’ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/helpatitis_aisv1_yppteam/ 

 

References: 

chrome extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/searo/india/health-topic-pdf/factsheet-b-hepatitisday2016.pdf?sfvrsn=da61ef0_2#:~:text=In%20India%2C%20the%20prevalence%20of,D%2C%20followed%20by%20Aand%20C. 

Premkumar, M., & Kumar Chawla, Y. (2021). Chronic Hepatitis B: Challenges and Successes in India. Clinical liver disease, 18(3), 111–116. https://doi.org/10.1002/cld.1125 

 

300 Million Reasons, About Hepatitis B, HBV, Hepatitis B Awareness, Hepatitis B Diagnosis & Monitoring, Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Liver, Liver Cancer, Liver Cancer Awareness Month, Living with Hepatitis B

If it’s not broken, don’t fix it! A hepatitis B vignette.

The Scenario

Yufei Zhao is 45 years old and lives with his family in Philadelphia,   Pa. Yufei discovered that he had hepatitis B when he attended a community health fair with his family. Even though he was instructed to talk about his diagnosis with a doctor and learn more about possible treatment options, Yufei decided to do nothing as he did not feel sick. While he has health insurance through his employer, he never utilizes any health care services. He often skips annual wellness visits as he says he “never gets sick.”  

A few weeks ago, Yufei’s family noticed that he has been skipping meals frequently saying he’s full or not hungry. At his daughter’s urging, he decided to go for a visit. After conducting some more tests, his doctor explained that the chronic infection with the hepatitis B virus had progressed substantially, and he had developed cirrhosis. After an MRI diagnosis, it was revealed that Yufei had liver cancer.

The Hepatologist (liver doctor) explained to Yufei that the liver is an important organ and acts as a cleaning system for the body. It removes toxic waste, purifies blood, and helps to digest food properly. When the virus entered the liver, it made many copies of itself and started attacking healthy liver cells. This led to inflammation and weakened the ability of the liver to carry out its most essential tasks. Because he was never monitored for hepatitis B, the virus allowed tumors to grow in the liver which caused the cancer. When the tumors grow in size or number, it eventually spreads to other parts of the body and disrupts other vital processes as well. 

The doctor mentioned that liver cancer is often called the silent disease because symptoms may not always be present. Even with a hepatitis B, a person could look or feel okay but that does not mean the virus isn’t active and causing damage. When the symptoms do show up, it might be too late to prevent liver cancer. After discussing his options with the doctor, Yufei learned that the best treatment for him was to get a liver transplant.  

He weighed the pros and cons of getting a transplant and consulted with his family. Now, Yufei is placed on a waiting list for a liver transplant to become available. In the meantime, his doctor has suggested other methods to destroy the smaller tumors without surgery through radiation (ablation). Yufei continues to spend more time with his family as he hopes to respond well to treatment until a new or partial liver is available.  

The Challenge

Cultural Perceptions on Health & Well-being 

  • Yufei is an older male in the household and the backbone of the family. For this reason, he considers it an obligation to prioritize his family over his personal health. It is important to understand these cultural and social beliefs prevalent in many different cultures and households. 
  • Family members should be advised to encourage their loved ones (especially older family members) to take charge of their health. It is important to check-in with your loved ones and assure them that sickness does not necessarily mean weakness. Taking care of one’s health can mean taking charge of one’s future.  

Hep B and Liver Cancer

  • Hepatitis B is a virus that causes inflammation of the liver. Without proper diagnosis and treatment, the virus can continue to multiply and damage healthy liver cells. This can lead to inflammation and scarring of the liver. This prevents the liver from doing its most important functions to maintain overall health which may result in the development of harmful tumors.  

Liver Cancer is a Silent Disease 

  • Many people with hepatitis B or liver cancer do not show symptoms of sickness but that does not mean the virus isn’t present or not actively working to harm the liver. Eventually, the physical symptoms will become noticeable as the virus/cancer advances to a more dangerous stage. 
What can you do?

Get tested! 

  • The most important thing you can do to prevent liver cancer is to get tested for hepatitis B. Most liver cancers develop from undiagnosed hepatitis B infections. There are a lot of people who have hepatitis B and do not know about it because they have never been tested. Even if you feel healthy and okay, it does not hurt to get tested!
  • If you don’t have hepatitis B, the test can tell you if you are vaccinated or if you need vaccination (which can provide lifelong protection from ever getting hepatitis B and help prevent liver cancer). 

Get screened! 

  • If you have hepatitis B, it is critical to manage the progression of the virus in your liver. For this reason, it is important to go through monitoring of your hepatitis B infection, liver health, and screen regularly for liver cancer.
  • Discuss with your doctor if you are at high-risk and how often you should get screened. It is recommended to get an ultrasound every 6 months to check how the virus is impacting the liver. AFP testing may also be done with regular monitoring of the liver to check for the possibility of liver cancer. 

Get educated! 

  • Stay up to date with the latest research and information on liver cancer! If you have hepatitis B, you should know that there is no cure for the virus but there is a lot of research that shows what you can do to ensure you live a healthy and long life.
  • Take an active role in learning about the disease and how it can affect your health over time. Learn about fibrosis, cirrhosis, liver cancer staging, and available treatments for hep B infection.  

References
  1. https://www.hepb.org/research-and-programs/liver/screening-for-liver-cancer/ 
  2. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/liver-cancer/treating/by-stage.html#:~:text=Treatment%20options%20might%20include%20ablation,%2C%20and%2For%20radiation%20therapy. 
  3. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/liver-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/staging.html 
  4. https://www.hepb.org/research-and-programs/liver/risk-factors-for-liver-cancer/ 

300 Million Reasons, About Hepatitis B, Hepatitis B Awareness, Hepatitis B Diagnosis & Monitoring, Hepatitis B Prevention, Hepatitis B Treatment, Liver, Liver Cancer, Liver Cancer Awareness Month, Living with Hepatitis B

Ignore it till it goes away! A hepatitis B vignette.

The Scenario:

Woman is sick on couch, her husband is giving her an ice pack

Aroha Kawai just started a new job as a medical interpreter for Pacific Islander patients diagnosed with COVID-19. As a critical source of communication for the providers and the patients, she is often called to work night and weekend shifts. Aroha had a difficult conversation with the family members of a critical COVID-19 patient on whether they should discontinue ventilation support for the ailing grandmother. During this time, Aroha’s family noticed changes in her behavior. She stopped eating regularly, lost weight and repeatedly cancelled plans to go out. Aroha dismissed her family’s concerns as physical manifestations of the emotional burnout from work.

People are at a free hepatitis B screening event in a park.

Recently she attended a health fair hosted by her department at work. She approached a viral hepatitis screening booth and decided to get tested for hepatitis B. The following week, she received her results in the mail. Her results indicated that she had tested positive for hepatitis B. She shared her diagnosis with her mother who informed her that her grandfather died from liver cancer.  

Inside a doctor's office. A doctor is showing information about the liver. A woman with hepatitis B sits with her husband.

Aroha then followed up with her primary care doctor.  She discovered that she had chronic hepatitis B. Even though the ultrasound did not show any evidence of cirrhosis, her doctor ordered an imaging test (U/S, CT, MRI) to screen for liver cancer. Unfortunately, Aroha was diagnosed with early-stage liver cancer.  

Inside a hospital room. A man and child visit a woman with hepatitis B in a hospital bed.

Fortunately, the cancer had not spread and did not infect nearby blood vessels. Her doctor suggested a partial hepatectomy to remove the tumor safely as the rest of the liver was still healthy. Aroha decided to adhere to her doctor’s advice and successfully underwent the surgery. She has taken some time off from work to focus on recuperating from the surgery and spending time with loved ones.  

 

 

The Challenge:
  1. Dismissal of Symptoms:
    • Aroha initially ignored the physical symptoms of liver cancer. It is true that signs and symptoms may not necessarily be present.
    • However, it is crucial to take care of one’s health and never ignore warning signs. Fatigue, unintended weight loss, and loss of appetite are a few of the symptoms of liver cancer. 
  2. Cancer without Cirrhosis: 
    • It is possible to get liver cancer without cirrhosis. Therefore, it is always important to screen for liver cancer if you have chronic hepatitis B infection. 
  3. Importance of Screening
    • Liver cancer screening is a highly effective method to detect malignant tumors and prevent cancer for those living with hepatitis B.
    • Early intervention increases the survival rate significantly and stops the cancer from spreading to other vital organs. 
What can you do?
  1. Get Help!
    • If you experience pain or discomfort of any kind, it is important to reach out for help. Set up an appointment with your doctor and discuss your concerns.
    • There is a good chance you might be misunderstanding an important health issue for side effects of stress or emotional burnout. Do not ignore your symptoms or feelings.  
  2. Get Screened!
    • Hepatitis B is a leading cause of liver cancer, most of the time it is because someone did not know they were infected with hepatitis B or were not managing their hepatitis B infection.
    • Everyone should be tested for hepatitis B to know their status. Ask your doctor for a hepatitis B screening today.  
  3. Stay on track!
    • If you have hepatitis B, it is critical to manage the progression of the virus in your liver. For this reason, it is important to go through liver cancer surveillance regularly. Discuss with your doctor if you are at high-risk and how often you should get screened.
    • It is recommended to get an ultrasound with blood work every 6 months to check how the virus is impacting the liver.  This includes the alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) blood test to measure the levels of AFP in your blood as it may indicate the presence of cancer cells in your liver. This can also help detect any scarring or tumors. 

Don't ignore it until it goes away. Get help. Get screened for hepatitis B. Stay on track.

Resources and Acknowledgements:
  1. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/liver-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/signs-symptoms.html 
  2. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/liver-cancer/treating/by-stage.html 
  3. https://www.hepb.org/research-and-programs/liver/prevention-of-liver-cancer/ 

300 Million Reasons, About Hepatitis B, HBV, Hepatitis B Awareness, Hepatitis B Diagnosis & Monitoring, Hepatitis B Prevention, Hepatitis B Research, Liver, Research

Reactivation with Hepatitis B: Understanding Risk Factors and Prevention Strategies

Understanding the hepatitis B virus and the panel of blood tests needed to determine infection or immunity can be a stressful and challenging task. In simplest terms, “hepatitis” means liver inflammation and the hepatitis B virus can ultimately cause liver inflammation. The liver is an important organ in the human body and responsible for the removal of toxins and regulation of digestion (learn more about the function of the liver here). The hepatitis B virus can infect and disrupt critical functions of the liver in supporting your overall health. 

How the hepatitis B virus works 

In the case of the hepatitis B virus, the host is the liver cell. As the virus makes more copies of itself, the liver may become damaged, and sometimes it is unable to carry out its essential tasks to regulate metabolism, nutrients, and digestion. It is best to prevent hepatitis B infections when we can – and since antibodies are the best defense against the virus, the hepatitis B vaccine can be used to signals the body to make antibodies to fight the virus. The hepatitis B vaccine provides lifelong protection from the virus. However, this is only possible before infection with the virus. If somebody is already infected with the virus, antiviral therapy is used to control the virus and prevent liver damage – antiviral medications disrupt the life cycle of the virus by disabling viral receptors from binding to liver cells. 

Blood test panel to diagnose hepatitis B: 

The only way to tell someone’s hepatitis B status is through a panel of blood tests – the tests are all done at one time, and only one small tube of blood is needed. These tests are not included in routine testing, so it is important to ask your doctor to test you for hepatitis B or try to find a free screening event near you (http://www.hepbunited.org/). The panel consists of the following tests to determine your hepatitis B status: 

  1. HBsAg: 
    • This tests for the hepatitis B surface antigen in someone’s blood. The surface antigen is the protein that surrounds the virus and protects it from attack by the host. A positive surface antigen test indicates that the virus is present in the body. A “positive” or “reactive” result for HBsAg indicates that someone is infected with hepatitis B and can transmit the virus to others.  
  1. HBsAb 
    • This tests for the hepatitis B surface antibody in someone’s blood. The surface antibodies are produced by the immune system and can fight off the virus by attaching to the surface antigen protein. This test can detect the presence of these antibodies. Ideally this test will be ordered quantitatively (numerically). A “positive” surface antibody test (meaning numbers reading >10 IU/mL) means that a person has protection against the hepatitis B virus (either by vaccine or from a past exposure).  
  1. HBcAb (total) 
    • This is known as the hepatitis B core antibody test. The core antibody is produced by the immune system after infection with the virus. This test indicates an existing or past infection of the hepatitis B virus.  

 

To learn more about interpreting your test results, click here. 

Important things to know about Hepatitis B Core Antibody (HBcAb) 

Someone who has markers of past infection, particularly hepatitis B core antibody, can be at risk for hepatitis B reactivation. Reactivation can be triggered by immunosuppressive therapies and cause significant life-threatening challenges. If you test HBcAb+, please talk to your doctor about what that means, and make sure you notify all future health care providers. 

How is reactivation with HBV defined? 

Reactivation is defined as the sudden increase or reappearance of HBV (hepatitis B virus) DNA. When the virus invades the cell, it forms a covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) in the nucleus of infected cells referred to as hepatocytes. Because cccDNA is resistant to antiviral treatments, it is never removed from the cells. Therefore, even after recovery from a past infection, the cccDNA is present and may reactivate. It is not clearly understood why this may happen, but certain factors may increase the risk for reactivation.  

To learn more about the core, click here. 

What puts one at risk for reactivation? 

  1. Virologic factors such as high baseline HBV DNA, hepatitis B envelope antigen positivity (HBeAg), and chronic hepatitis B infection that persists for more than 6 months.
    • Detectable HBV DNA levels and detectable levels of HBsAG can increase the risk for HBRr (reactivation) 
    • Testing positive for HBeAg also increases the risk for reactivation 
  2. Co-infection with other viruses such as hepatitis C or hepatitis Delta 
  3. Older age 
  4. Male sex 
  5. Cirrhosis 
  6. An underlying condition requiring immunosuppressive therapies (rheumatoid arthritis, lymphoma, or solid tumors) 
    • Certain medications can increase the likelihood of reactivation by more than 10%.  
    • B-cell depleting agents such as rituximab, ofatumumab, doxorubicin, epirubicin, moderate or high-dose corticosteroid therapy lasting more than 4 weeks. 

How to prevent reactivation of hepatitis B 

Hepatitis B reactivation is a serious condition that can lead to health complications, Reactivation is avoidable if at-risk individuals are identified through screening. Current guidelines recommend that individuals at the highest risk (those receiving B-cell depleting therapies and cytotoxic regimens) should receive antiviral therapies as prophylaxis before beginning immunosuppressive therapy. These antiviral therapies should also be continued well beyond stopping the immunosuppressive therapies. Be sure to talk to your doctor to be sure you are not at risk for reactivation.  

References 

Hepatitis b virus reactivation: Risk factors and current management strategies.

Reactivation of hepatitis B virus: A review of Clinical Guidelines.

https://aasldpubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/cld.883

https://www.hepb.org/prevention-and-diagnosis/diagnosis/understanding-your-test-results/

About Hepatitis B, Hepatitis B Awareness, Liver, Liver Health

What is the Difference Between hepatitis B and Fatty Liver Disease?

Many people have trouble understanding the relationship between chronic hepatitis B (HBV) infection and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). While research studies are ongoing and the association between hepatitis B and NAFLD is indeed complex, a chronic hepatitis B infection does not cause NAFLD. It is important to understand both diseases independently of one another before studying the correlation between the two.  

Hepatitis B and fatty liver disease both can damage the liver. This is why it is important to understand the role of the liver in maintaining overall health and well-being. The liver is an essential organ in your body and is responsible for supporting digestion and regulating nutrients. It plays a crucial role in removing toxic substances from your body.  

Worldwide, almost 300 million people are living with hepatitis B. Hepatitis B is transmitted through direct contact with infected blood, unprotected sex with an infected individual, use of contaminated medical or injection equipment, and most commonly, from an infected mother to her newborn during childbirth. A chronic (lasting longer than six months) hepatitis B infection can damage the liver and may progress to more serious conditions like cirrhosis, fibrosis, and even liver cancer. While hepatitis B is a major public health problem, it can be prevented through a safe and effective vaccine. And even though hepatitis B is a serious disease, most people live healthy and productive lives with effective management and treatment.  

NAFLD is caused by the excess accumulation of fat in the liver not related to  alcohol use. Over time, this may lead to inflammation or swelling and liver damage. There are two types of NAFLD: 1). Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver (NAFL) or Simple Fatty Liver and 2) Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). Someone who has NAFL has fat buildup in their liver. Someone who has NASH also has liver damage and liver inflammation, which can lead to cirrhosis, liver cancer, and may even result in the need for a liver transplant. Type II Diabetes and obesity puts an individual at a higher risk for contracting NAFLD. In the United States, around 20% to 40% of individuals are living with NAFLD. The good news is that NAFLD can be reversed with changes in diet, physical activity patterns, and seeing a doctor regularly.  

It is possible to have both NAFLD and hepatitis B. If you are living with both, the impact of the virus on an already inflamed and compromised liver can lead to liver damage. With excess fat stored in liver cells, the virus can easily replicate without the protection from healthy liver cells and progress to a more severe form of liver disease like cirrhosis, fibrosis, or cancer at a much faster rate.   

Like hepatitis B, NAFLD should not be taken lightly as it can lead to serious health problems. It is important to consult with your doctor to find any concerns with your liver. 

For more information, please visit the National Institute of Digestive Disease and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) or the Fatty Liver Foundation.

 

References:

https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/fatty-liver-disease-what-it-is-and-what-to-do-about-it-2019011015746 

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/nash-fibrosis#causes 

About Hepatitis B, Hepatitis B Awareness, Hepatitis B Prevention, Living with Hepatitis B

Can I Breastfeed While Living With Hepatitis B?

Every year, the first week of August celebrates World Breastfeeding week. World Breastfeeding week highlights the importance of breastfeeding and its benefits including nutrition, food security, child development, and the reduction of inequalities.  

Breastfeeding is a widespread practice found across cultures and borders. Considered to be the best food choice for babies, breast milk is full of essential nutrients to help babies fight off infections. It also lowers the risk of developing serious health problems like asthma, obesity, type 1 diabetes, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Breastfeeding also helps the mother bond with the child and supports the baby’s emotional health. Not only that, but mothers who breastfeed reduce their risk of developing high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, ovarian cancer, and breast cancer. It is encouraged for mothers to breastfeed their child exclusively for six months.  

However, it is important to consider that breastfeeding may not be the best option for everyone. There are many reasons why a woman may choose not to breastfeed her child including: health issues, lack of support, lack of time, short parental leave, and poor mental health. Formula can be a great, healthy, alternative to breastfeeding when breastfeeding is not possible.  

Globally, 300 million people are living with hepatitis B, and many do not know their status. Hepatitis B is a virus that infects the liver and damages healthy tissues and cells. This makes it more difficult for your liver to do its job of making sure your body is free of toxins and breaking down food so you can use it for energy. Globally, hepatitis B is most commonly transmitted from mother to child due to the blood exchange during childbirth, but may also spread through the following routes: 

  • Sharing needles or unclean objects like razors and toothbrushes 
  • Unsafe tattoo or piercing procedures 
  • Unprotected sex 

Learn more about transmission here!  

While some health issues can prevent women from breastfeeding their baby due to the fear of passing the disease or illness to their child, this is not the case with hepatitis B. Women living with hepatitis B can safely breastfeed their baby and are encouraged to breastfeed.  

Also, to prevent mother to child transmission of hepatitis B it is important to make sure the child receives the first dose of hepatitis B vaccine called the hepatitis B birth dose within the first 24 hours of birth. An extra step towards prevention can also be taken for mothers who have hepatitis B infection, which includes giving their baby the hepatitis B birth dose and hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) within the first 24 hours of birth. HBIG is not always available in every country and might be difficult to get. If it is not possible to get HBIG, be sure your child gets the hepatitis B birth dose within the first 24 hours of delivery to prevent transmission. HBIG is a shot that helps to protect your baby from developing hepatitis B by teaching the body to fight off the infection. The vaccine or birth dose is safe, effective, and provides a lifetime of protection to babies, so they do not get hepatitis B in the future. The birth dose is given in 3 doses and follows the schedule below:  

  • 1st dose- given right after birth but within 24 hours 
  • 2nd dose- given in at one month of age 
  • 3rd dose- given when the baby is 6 months old 

The infant hepatitis B vaccine schedule can vary depending on where you live – you can see the schedules here. 

You can learn more about the hepatitis B vaccine here!  

It should be noted that until a baby completes their hepatitis B vaccination series, if the nipples are chapped, cracked, or bleeding, it is best to avoid breastfeeding until the nipples are completely healed. Because hepatitis B is transmitted by blood-to-blood contact, there is a small risk of transmission to unvaccinated babies if the nipples are bleeding. During this time, it can be beneficial to seek guidance from a lactation consultant and switch to a different feeding method (formula or donor human milk).  

It is safe to breastfeed if you are living with hepatitis B, you will not transmit hepatitis B to your infant. If you still feel nervous about breastfeeding your baby, formula is the best alternative to breast milk.  

References 

https://worldbreastfeedingweek.org/  

https://www.hepb.org/treatment-and-management/pregnancy-and-hbv/breastfeeding/  

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23383145/  

https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/breastfeeding-special-circumstances/maternal-or-infant-illnesses/hepatitis.html#:~:text=Is%20it%20safe%20for%20a,within%2012%20hours%20of%20birth. 

Baruch S. Blumberg Institute