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  • If Hepatitis B Is Sexually Transmitted, How Come My Partner Isn’t Infected?

    Image courtesy of Canva I thought hepatitis B was sexually transmitted? I just tested positive, but my partner tested negative, we’ve been together for years, what gives? This question is a common one. Hepatitis B can be transmitted sexually, so why do some people — who were not vaccinated — never get hepatitis B from their sexual partners? It comes down to factors, such as the type of sexual activity partners engage in, the viral load (HBV DNA) of the infected partner, and who is on the receiving end of infectious body fluids, especially blood (which contains the most virus), and semen. Having one partner infected, while the other is not, can add more stress to an already traumatic hepatitis B diagnosis. “It was very confusing and made me question how was it possible I was the only one infected,” said a woman who tested positive while her husband tested negative. “I thought it was possibly a mistake, maybe I was a biological anomaly, which of course I was not.” Let’s look at the factors that may play a role in transmission of hepatitis B infection through sexual activity. Viral load: Semen, vaginal fluids and blood all contain the hepatitis B virus (HBV), and the higher the viral load in the blood of an infected individual, the more infectious they are considered to be. Having an undetectable viral load might reduce or eliminate the chance of transmitting the virus to someone during unprotected sex; research is still trying to assess whether a person with an undetectable viral load in the blood is able to transmit the virus through sex. This is a good reason for individuals living with hepatitis B to talk to their doctor about the benefits of starting antivirals if they have detectable HBV viral load in their blood; treatment which lowers the viral load in the blood might also serve as a prevention measure for transmitting the virus. Once an individual tests positive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), they should encourage their partners

    http://www.hepb.org/blog/hepatitis-b-sexually-transmitted-come-partner-isnt-infected-2/
  • Journey to the Cure: What do I do if I'm pregnant and have hep B? ft. Maureen Kamischke

    Welcome to “Journey to the Cure.” This is a web series that chronicles the progress at the Hepatitis B Foundation and Baruch S. Blumberg Institute towards finding the cure for hepatitis B. In the third episode (part 1), Kristine Alarcon, MPH sits down with Maureen Kamischke, Hepatitis B Foundation Social Media Manager, to discuss what expectant mothers can do when they have hepatitis B. For any questions about hepatitis B, please email info@hepb.org. The Hepatitis B Foundation is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to finding a cure and improving the lives of those affected by hepatitis B worldwide through research, education and patient advocacy. Visit us at www.hepb.org, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/hepbfoundation, on Twitter at @hepbfoundation, and our Blog at www.hepb.org/blog Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is not intended to serve as medical advice or endorsement of any product. The Hepatitis B Foundation strongly recommends each person discuss this information and their questions with a qualified health care provider. Edited: Kristine Alarcon, MPH Special thanks: Samantha Young Music: Modern - iMovie Library Collection

    http://www.hepb.org/blog/journey-cure-im-pregnant-hep-b-ft-maureen-kamischke/
  • What Do I Do if I’m a Hepatitis B Vaccine Non-Responder?

    Image courtesy of Pixabay Approximately 5-10% of people do not develop protective antibodies following the completion of the hepatitis B vaccine series.  This is confirmed with a blood test called an anti-HBs titer test which is given 4 weeks following the completion of the series. If the test shows the titer is less then 10 mIU/mL the general recommendation is to complete the series again using a different brand of vaccine (e.g. if you received Engerix B, the first time, switch to Recombivax the 2nd time or vice-versa).  A person is considered to be a "non-responder" if they have completed 2 full vaccination series’ without producing adequate protective antibodies. Another vaccine option is the new two-dose hepatitis B vaccine, HEPLISAV-BTM. The new vaccine is expected to increase immunization rates for adults in the United States and is administered over a one-month period. The vaccine provides greater seroprotection, which can mean a greater antibody response especially in adults who may be older, obese or live with type 2 diabetes making it an effective vaccine option. It is also possible that a person who does not respond to the vaccine may already be infected with hepatitis B. Therefore, testing for the presence of the hepatitis B virus (hepatitis B surface antigen or HBsAg) is recommended before diagnosing a person as a "vaccine non-responder." CDC Recommendations for Hepatitis B Vaccine Non-Responders Persons who do not respond to the primary hepatitis B vaccine series (i.e., anti-HBs <10 mIU/mL) should complete a second 3-dose vaccine series or be evaluated to determine if they are HBsAg-positive. Persons who do not respond to an initial 3-dose vaccine series have a 30%--50% chance of responding to a second 3-dose series. Revaccinated persons should be retested at the completion of the second vaccine series, 1-2 months following the last shot of the series. Persons exposed to HBsAg-positive blood or body fluids who are known not to have responded

    http://www.hepb.org/blog/im-hepatitis-b-vaccine-non-responder/
  • Journey to the Cure: How Do I Know if I Have Hepatitis B? ft. Chari Cohen, DrPH, MPH

    Welcome to "Journey to the Cure" This is a web series that chronicles the progress at the Hepatitis B Foundation and Baruch S. Blumberg Institute towards finding the cure for hepatitis B. In the second episode (part 1), Kristine Alarcon, MPH sits down with Chari Cohen, DrPH, MPH, Vice President of Public Health of the Hepatitis B Foundation, to talk about hepatitis B symptoms and testing. For any questions about hepatitis B, please email info@hepb.org The Hepatitis B Foundation is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to finding a cure and improving the lives of those affected by hepatitis B worldwide through research, education and patient advocacy. Visit us at www.hepb.org, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/hepbfoundation, on Twitter at @hepbfoundation, and our Blog at www.hepb.org/blog Disclaimer: The information provided in this video is not intended to serve as medical advice or endorsement of any product. The Hepatitis B Foundation strongly recommends each person discuss this information and their questions with a qualified health care provider. Edited by: Samantha Young Music: Modern - iMovie Library Collection

    http://www.hepb.org/blog/journey-cure-know-hepatitis-b-ft-chari-cohen-drph-mph/
  • Hepatitis B Precautions for People Living with Diabetes

      March 27th is Diabetes Alert Day! Diabetes is a chronic condition that is characterized by high glucose (or sugar) levels in the blood. It usually occurs when a person cannot produce enough insulin, a hormone that controls blood sugar levels. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), global prevalence of diabetes is on the rise! In 1980, diabetes prevalence in adults over the age of 18 was 4.7%. The number rose to 8.5% in 2014 and continues to increase. In 2015, there was an estimated 1.6 million deaths that were attributed to diabetes. Like hepatitis B, there have been several studies that show a strong link between type II diabetes and liver cancer. Diabetes and hepatitis B can be a dangerous combination and can work together to increase someone’s risk of developing liver cancer. Since the hepatitis B virus can be transmitted via blood or other bodily fluids, people living with diabetes are at an increased risk of contracting hepatitis B. In fact, one study found that people living with diabetes between the ages of 23-59 have an approximately two-fold increased risk of hep B infection compared to those without diabetes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there have been hepatitis B outbreaks in nursing homes, assisted living, and long-term care facilities among people living with diabetes. Some risks for transmission include: Sharing glucose meters between residents without cleaning and disinfecting between uses Lack of proper hand hygiene and failure to wear gloves between fingerstick procedures Using the same fingerstick devices for more than one resident Cross-contamination of clean supplies with contaminated blood glucose monitoring equipment used by home health agencies Sharing injection equipment such as an insulin pen or syringe for more than one person Failure to perform proper sterilization and separating contaminated and clean podiatry equipment Failure to perform proper disinfection between podiatry

    http://www.hepb.org/blog/hepatitis-b-precautions-people-living-diabetes/
  • Other Tests

    Additional Hepatitis B Blood Tests Hepatitis B can be a complicated liver infection to understand, so additional blood tests may be ordered so your health provider has a better understanding of what kind of care and follow-up is needed. Anti-HBc IgM or anti-HBc IgG (anti-hepatitis B core IgM or IgG) Sometimes an anti-HBc IgM or anti-HBc IgG blood test may be ordered to clarify if a person has a new “acute” hepatitis B infection or “chronic” infection. A positive/reactive anti-HBc IgM test result usually indicates a new acute infection. A positive/reactive anti-HBc IgG test usually indicates a chronic infection. These test results must be explained by your health care provider because they can be confusing. For example, sometimes the liver of a person who is chronically infected with hepatitis B may become more inflamed than usual (this is called a “liver flare”). So a chronically infected person could also test positive for the anti-HBc IgM blood test, although this usually indicates a new infection Thus, it is important to be seen by a health care provider who understands hepatitis B so you get the right diagnosis and the right care and follow-up.   HBeAg (Hepatitis B e-Antigen) - This is a viral protein made by the hepatitis B virus and is released from the infected liver cells into the blood. This test detects how much virus is in the blood as a result of very active viral replication. A negative test result indicates the virus may not be actively reproducing in the liver. In general, a person is considered very infectious when the test is positive, and less infectious when the test is negative. The loss of e-Antigen can occur naturally or as a result of drug treatment. Sometimes a negative test result can indicate a mutant hepatitis B virus is present. So, the absence of e-Antigen does not always mean there is little or no active viral replication. The doctor can confirm with additional tests. A positive HBeAg indicates high levels of virus in the blood and a person is considered infectious. A negative HBeAg indicates very low to no virus in the blood and a person is usually considered less infectious; sometimes this can indicate a person has a mutant hepatitis B virus (see below). The hepatitis B e-antigen test result is often used to monitor the effectiveness of many hepatitis B drug therapies that aim to change a chronically infected person’s e-antigen status from “positive” to “negative.” By achieving a “negative” e-antigen result, this means that the hepatitis B drug successfully stopped or slowed down the virus replication. Although this is not a cure, stopping or slowing down the virus will result in less damage to the liver, which decreases the risk of developing serious liver disease in the future. Some people with chronic hepatitis B naturally lose e-antigen and develop e-antibody, even without treatment. To make things a bit more confusing, however, there are some chronically infected patients with a high viral load who are untreated and still test “negative” for the hepatitis B e-antigen. So, the absence of e-antigen does not always mean there is no active viral replication. Instead, these persons have a mutant hepatitis B virus that does not produce the e-antigen. As a result, treating someone who is e-antigen negative (but with a high viral load) is difficult because the mutant hepatitis B virus is more resistant to the current drugs. In addition, the absence of e-antigen makes it harder to evaluate whether a drug is working or not. anti-HBe or HBeAb (Hepatitis B e-Antibody) - This is not a protective antibody. It is made in response to the hepatitis B e-antigen. Chronically infected individuals who stop producing e-antigen sometimes produce e-antibodies. The clinical significance of this result is not fully understood, but it is generally considered to be a good thing. For those with e-antigen negative chronic hepatitis B infections (meaning they have a mutant virus), the presence of anti-HBe may still be associated with active viral replication. Hepatitis B Virus DNA Quantification (“viral load”) – This blood test measures the amount of hepatitis B virus DNA (or viral load) in the blood of chronically infected patients. The blood is tested using a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technique that is highly sophisticated and accurate. The hepatitis B “viral load” provides important information, but should only be considered in relation to other information such as your e-antigen status and liver enzymes test results (see below). The viral load is usually measured in “international units per milliliter” (IU/mL), but may also be measured in “copies per milliliter”(cp/ml). There are approximately 5 copies in one international unit. HBsAg Quantitative (quantitative hepatitis B surface antigen / qHBsAg) – This blood test measures the actual amount of hepatitis B surface antigen in the blood. When used in combination with the HBV DNA test, qHBsAg can provide a liver specialist with additional insights to an individual’s HBV infection. It can also be used in predicting and monitoring treatment response. Hepatitis B Drug Resistance, Genotype, and BCP/PreCore Mutation – This blood test is not commonly ordered. A liver specialist may order the test to determine a patient’s hepatitis B virus genotype (A-H) for research purposes and to detect a viral mutation that may be associated with resistance to current treatments. This is a Polymerase Chain Reaction test, which again, is not readily available or used  outside large teaching hospitals.   Liver Related Blood Tests The hepatitis B virus specifically attacks the liver, so health care providers will order blood tests to monitor the health of your liver. Some of the most common liver related blood tests are described below. These blood tests measure potential liver damage (or liver inflammation). If a person is infected with the hepatitis B virus, the liver cells can be injured by the virus and then the liver enzymes can leak into the bloodstream. The higher the number, the greater the risk of potential liver damage. ALT (alanine aminotransferase) is found almost exclusively in the liver and is monitored most closely in a chronic hepatitis B infection. This test is useful in deciding whether a patient would benefit from treatment or for evaluating how well a person is responding to therapy. The upper limits of normal for ALT in healthy adults is 35 U/L for men and 25 U/L for women. AST (aspartate aminotransferase) is found in the liver, heart and muscle so is less accurate than the ALT in measuring liver damage. But this enzyme is often ordered to help monitor potential liver damage from the hepatitis B virus. AFP (Alpha-FetoProtein) - This is a normal protein produced in the developing fetus, thus, pregnant women will have elevated AFP. Other adults, however, should not have elevated AFP in their blood. This test is used to screen for primary liver cancer patients with chronic hepatitis B. Patients should have their AFP levels monitored at every visit since hepatitis B is the leading cause of liver cancer. If the AFP level is high, the health care provider will order more blood tests and imaging studies. Ferritin - Iron is stored in the liver in the form of ferritin. Increased levels of ferritin indicate that a high level of iron is being stored. This could result from an increased iron intake in the diet (vitamin supplements, food cooked in iron pots, etc.). For people living with chronic hepatitis B, a high level can indicate liver damage since ferritin is leaked into the bloodstream as liver cells are injured by the virus.   Additional Blood Tests Your Doctor May Order If you have been diagnosed with chronic hepatitis B, your doctor may order a Hepatic Function Panel (Liver Function Tests, (LFTs), liver profile) and a Complete Blood Count (CBC).  A number of the blood test results included in these panels are useful in evaluating liver disease, in general, and are not necessarily specific to hepatitis B. Your doctor will be able to explain your personal results in detail, but the chart below provides a quick reference for interpreting your test results.  Test Normal Range Abnormal RangeMild-Moderate Abnormal RangeSevere  Liver Enzymes   Aspartate aminotransferase (AST)30 IU/mL for men and 19 IU/mL for women40-200 IU/L>200 IU/lLAlanine aminotransferase(ALT)35 IU/mL for men and 25 IU/mL for women40-200 IU/L>200 IU/LGamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT)<60 IU/L60-200 IU/L>200 IU/LAlkaline phosphatase<112 IU/L112-300 IU/L>300 IU/L Liver Function Tests   Total Bilirubin<1.2 mg/dL(<20.5 umol/L) 1.2-2.5 mg/dL(20.5-43 umol/L) >2.5 mg/dL(42.8 umol/L)Albumin3.5-4.5 g/dL3.0-3.5 g/dL<3.0 g/dLProthrombin time<14 seconds14-17 seconds>17 seconds Blood Count    White blood count(WBC) >60003000-6000<3000Hematocrit (HCT)>4035-40<35Platelets>150,000100,000-150,000<100,000 Key   IU= International UnitL=literdL=decilitermg=milligramsumol=micromole     

    https://www.hepb.org/prevention-and-diagnosis/diagnosis/other-tests/
  • Yoruba

    Káàbọ̀ sí Abala Yorùbá ti Ojúlé Wẹ́ẹ̀bù Àjọ Àrùn Ẹ̀dọ̀fóró B Àrùn Ẹ̀dọ̀fóró B ni a mọ̀ bíi àrùn tó farapamọ́, àti wípé ọ̀pọ̀ ènìyàn kò tilẹ̀ mọ̀ wípé wọ́n ní àrùn náà. Ojúlé wẹ́ẹ̀bù yìí ní àlàyé nípa dídènà, àyẹ̀wò àti ìṣàkóso àrùn ẹ̀dọ̀fóró B. A rọ̀ ọ́ láti ṣàpínlò àlàyé yìí pẹ̀lú àwọn ọ̀rẹ́ rẹ, ẹbí àti àwọn míràn ní agbègbè rẹ. Ìwọ̀nyí ni àwọn ohun pàtàkì láti rántí nípa àrùn ẹ̀dọ̀fóró B: A kìí jogún àrùn ẹ̀dọ̀fóró B - kòkòrò kan ló ṣokùnfà.  Àjẹsára kan wà tí yóò dáàbò bò ọ́ lọ́wọ́ àrùn ẹ̀dọ̀fóró B títí ayé.  Àyẹ̀wò ẹ̀jẹ̀ kan tó rọrùn kan wà láti ṣàyẹ̀wò àrùn ẹ̀dọ̀fóró B.  Àwọn àṣàyàn ìtọ́jú wà. Àrùn Ẹ̀dọ̀fóró B jẹ́ Àìsàn Àgbáyé Àrùn Ẹ̀dọ̀fóró B le ran ẹnikẹ́ni ní ọjọ́-orí tàbí ẹ̀yà, ṣùgbọ́n àwọn ènìyàn láti abala àgbáyé kan níbití àrùn ẹ̀dọ̀fóró B ti wọ́pọ̀ jù, bíi Asia, abala Afirika àtì South America, Eastern Europe, àtì Middle East, wà lábẹ́ ọ̀pọ̀ ewu láti ní àkóràn. Àrùn Ẹ̀dọ̀fóró B tún wọ́pọ̀ láàrín àwọn ará Amẹrika tí a bí (tàbí tí a bí àwọn òbí wọn) sí àwọn agbègbè wọ̀nyí. Ọ̀pọ̀lọpọ̀ mílíọ̀nù ènìyàn káàkiri àgbáyé ló ní àrùn ẹ̀dọ̀fóró B. Kódà ọ̀pọ̀ ènìyàn kò mọ̀ wípé wọ́n ní àrùn náà, kò sì ní àmì àrùn – ṣùgbọ́n ọ̀pọ̀ nkan pàtàkì ni o gbọ́dọ̀ mọ̀. Ṣíṣe àyẹ̀wò fún àrùn ẹ̀dọ̀fóró B le dóòlà ẹ̀mí rẹ. Tí o bá mọ̀ wípé o ní àrùn ẹ̀dọ̀fóró B, o le ṣe àwọn ẹ̀yàn ìgbé ayé láti jẹ́ kí ẹ̀dọ̀ rẹ wà ní ìlera o sì le rí dókítà kan láti ṣàkóso kòkòrò náà kó sì dènà ìbàjẹ́ ẹ̀dọ̀fóró. Àjọ Àrùn Ẹ̀dọ̀fóró B jẹ́ àjọ orílẹ̀-èdè kan tí kò sí fún èrè tó sì farajì láti wá ìwòsàn àti láti ṣèrànwọ́ mímú ìgbé ayé tó dára dàgbà fún gbogbo àwọn tó ní àrùn ẹ̀dọ̀fóró B káàkiri àgbáyé nípasẹ̀ iṣẹ́ ìwádìí, ẹ̀kọ́ àti sísọ̀rọ̀ fún àwọn aláìsàn. Ìkọ̀sílẹ̀: Àlàyé tí a pèsè lórí ojúlé wẹ́ẹ̀bù yìí wà fún èrèdí ìkẹ́kọ̀ọ́ nìkan. Àjọ Àrùn Ẹ̀dọ̀fóró B kìíṣe ilé-ìwòsan. Jọ̀wọ́ bá dókítà rẹ sọ̀rọ̀ tàbí olùpèsè ìtọ́jú ìlera kan tó kọ́ṣẹ́mọṣẹ́ fún ìtọ́jú ìlera àdani àti ìmọ̀ràn. Welcome to the Yoruba Chapter of the Hepatitis B Foundation Website Hepatitis B is known as a silent disease, and most people don’t even know they are infected. This website contains information about preventing, diagnosing and managing hepatitis B. We encourage you to share this information with your friends, family and others in your community. Here are some important things to remember about hepatitis B: Hepatitis B is not inherited - it is caused by a virus.  There is a safe vaccine which will protect you from hepatitis B for life.  There is a simple blood test to diagnose hepatitis B.  There are treatment options. Hepatitis B is a Global Disease Hepatitis B can infect any person of any age or ethnicity, but people from parts of the world where hepatitis B is common, such as Asia, parts of Africa and South America, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East, are at much higher risk for getting infected. Hepatitis B is also common among Americans who were born (or whose parents were born) in these regions. There are hundreds of millions of people worldwide who have hepatitis B. Most people don’t even know they are infected, and don’t have symptoms – but there are many important things you should know. Getting tested for hepatitis B can save your life. If you know you have hepatitis B, you can make lifestyle choices to keep your liver healthy and you can see a doctor to help manage the virus and prevent liver damage. The Hepatitis B Foundation is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to finding a cure and helping to improve the quality of life for all those affected by hepatitis B worldwide through research, education and patient advocacy. Disclaimer: The information that is provided on this website is for educational purposes only. The Hepatitis B Foundation is not a medical organization. Please talk to your doctor or a qualified health care provider for personal medical care and advice. 

    https://www.hepb.org/languages/yoruba/
  • U.S. Falls Short in Reaching 2020 Goals for Hepatitis B

    Hepatitis B Foundation Calls for Increased Resources To Address Rising Acute Hepatitis B Infections, Disparities in Hepatitis B- Related Death Rates, and Lagging Birth Dose Rates DOYLESTOWN PA (September 18, 2019): The U.S. is falling short of targets for hepatitis B vaccination, and for reducing new hepatitis B cases, according to the 2019 National Viral Hepatitis Progress Report, released this week by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While some progress has been made towards reducing hepatitis B-related deaths in the U.S., leaders from the Hepatitis B Foundation call for an increased focus on hepatitis B prevention in order to meet goals set by the CDC for 2020. The 2019 Progress Report indicates that we have met the 2020 goal for reducing the rate of hepatitis B-related deaths. While we are happy to see this progress, according to the 2017 Viral Hepatitis Surveillance Report released last week, hepatitis B-related mortality rates are over 5.3 times higher among Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, and 1.6 times higher among Black Americans. These data show that the communities most impacted by hepatitis B are still dying from the consequences. The Hepatitis B Foundation calls on the CDC, as they develop future viral hepatitis goals, to include the elimination of mortality-related disparities among highly impacted groups. The 2020 vaccination goal is to ensure that 85% of infants born in the U.S. receive the first dose of the hepatitis B vaccine, a critical component of hepatitis B prevention, within three days of birth. Babies who receive the birth dose are more likely to complete the vaccine series on schedule, and universal implementation of the birth dose helps prevent mother-to-child transmission. However, according to the report, only 73.6% of U.S. infants are being vaccinated on schedule. While this is a small increase from 2016 (71.1%), it falls well short of the 2020 goal, and would require a focused effort to meet the goal within the next year. “We need to identify areas of the U.S. that have low birth dose rates, assess their challenges and barriers, and design strategies to improve the percentage of babies that receive the birth dose,” stated Chari Cohen, DrPH, MPH, Senior Vice President at the Hepatitis B Foundation. “This can’t be done without additional funding and resources.” Alarmingly, the report documents the recent pattern of increasing cases of acute hepatitis B infection. Since 2014, the rate has increased 19%, likely driven by low adult vaccine rates and the rise of opioid-related infections. “This is a disappointing reversal of three-decades of decreasing rates of acute hepatitis B,” said Kate Moraras, MPH, Senior Program Director, Hepatitis B Foundation. “This report demonstrates an urgent need to dedicate more resources to preventing hepatitis B among adults in order to meet 2020 goals. Currently only 25% of adults have been vaccinated and hepatitis B is often not included in efforts to address infections related to the opioid crisis.” The progress report reveals the lack of prioritization and insufficient funding for viral hepatitis prevention programs in the U.S. The Hepatitis B Foundation calls on Congress to increase federal resources to support the elimination of hepatitis B and research for a cure. About Hepatitis B: Hepatitis B is one of the world’s most common infections and the primary cause of liver cancer, which is the second-leading cause of cancer death in the world. Two billion people (1 in 3) have been infected with the hepatitis B virus, more than 292 million are chronically infected, and almost 1 million people die each year from hepatitis B-related liver failure and liver cancer. In the U.S., up to 2.2 million are chronically infected - yet most do not know it. Without early diagnosis and intervention, one in four people living with hepatitis B will die prematurely from liver failure or liver cancer. The hepatitis B virus is transmitted through blood, unprotected sex, unsterile needles, and from an infected mother to her newborn due to blood exchange during delivery. Although hepatitis B is preventable and treatable, there is still no complete cure for this deadly liver infection. About the Hepatitis B Foundation: The Hepatitis B Foundation is the nation’s leading nonprofit organization solely dedicated to finding a cure for hepatitis B and improving the quality of life for those affected worldwide through research, education and patient advocacy. To learn more, visit www.hepb.org, read our blog at hepb.org/blog, follow us on Twitter @HepBFoundation, find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hepbfoundation or call 215-489-4900. # # #  

    https://www.hepb.org/news-and-events/news-2/u-s-falls-short-in-reaching-2020-goals-for-hepatitis-b/
  • Hepatitis B Foundation's #justB Campaign Gives Voice to Personal Stories During May Hepatitis Awareness Month

    DOYLESTOWN, PA (May 2017) - The Hepatitis B Foundation has launched its innovative #justB Storytelling Campaign to highlight the personal stories of people affected by hepatitis B to capture public attention during May Hepatitis Awareness Month. The #justB storybank is a national resource of digital stories from people across the U.S., designed to increase awareness of hepatitis B and its role in causing liver failure and liver cancer, decrease stigma and discrimination for those affected, and support the foundation’s advocacy efforts to increase federal funding for improved access to care and more research to find a cure. “There is no better way to understand the impact of a chronic disease like hepatitis B than to hear the stories of real people affected every day,” said Joan Block, RN, BSN, executive director and co-founder of the Hepatitis B Foundation. “While an estimated 2 million Americans suffer from chronic hepatitis B, up to 75 percent of these individuals do not know they are infected. Our #justB campaign seeks to save lives through storytelling to help put a human face on hepatitis B and motivate people to get tested, vaccinated and treated.” Each #justB story reflects a unique personal experience and an important message about hepatitis B. Former ABC 7 News anchor Alan Wang, a storyteller from California, talks about how doctors fail to test people for hepatitis B, even when family members have died from liver cancer. “I was only tested and received the attention I needed because of a medical reporter friend who connected me to a leading hepatologist [liver specialist],” Alan, 49, explains in his story. After his diagnosis, he encouraged family members to be tested and his mother and siblings were also found to be chronically infected with the hepatitis B virus. “We were left to connect the dots because the medical community is failing to address a global epidemic that kills more than 700,000 people a year,” Alan said. “It’s bad enough that hepatitis B is a silent killer with few symptoms until it’s too late. It’s also ignored by Asian cultures that are disproportionately affected, which consider talk about deadly diseases to be taboo.” While a safe and effective vaccine that prevents hepatitis B is available, there continue to be gaps in the administration of the vaccine, which is recommended for all newborns and children up to 17 years, and adults with diabetes and those at high risk for infection. Storyteller John E., from Florida, missed the vaccine and was diagnosed with chronic hepatitis B at age 16. He, like many people living with hepatitis B, does not know how he became infected. “I was shocked the doctor couldn’t tell me how I was infected, as if finding out how I contracted hepatitis B would somehow cure me of it,” John, 26, shares in his story. One year after his diagnosis, John organized a cycling tour from Pensacola to Philadelphia with another 17-year old friend to raise public awareness and funds for the Hepatitis B Foundation. Today as a business entrepreneur, his goal is, “To be bigger than my diagnosis; I don’t want it to hold me back or define me.” With more than 240 million people living with chronic hepatitis B worldwide, one highly impacted region that tends to be overlooked is Africa. Although HIV/AIDS is the primary public health focus in Africa, prevalence rates for hepatitis B are also high, particularly in west African countries. Thus, with the growing influx of immigrants from Africa into the United States, there is an increasing need to promote testing and care for hepatitis B in these communities. Some of the barriers African immigrants face regarding hepatitis B are highlighted by storyteller Bunmi D., from Maryland, who grew up in Nigeria and emigrated to the U.S.to attend graduate school. She struggles with her family’s reluctance to discuss her father’s death from liver cancer, the result of a chronic hepatitis B infection that was diagnosed too late. “Stigma is everywhere,” Bunmi explains. “People don’t think about the facts of how the hepatitis B virus is transmitted– they are afraid to even touch someone who has it. Many people don’t even want to get tested because treatment is either not available or costs too much money. They say, ‘What’s the point?’ This needs to change,” she added.“In the U.S., the services are here, and I want to make sure that people of African origin know there are resource. I want to end the silence to save lives.” The #justB digital stories are available on the Hepatitis B Foundation website at www.hepb.org/justb, and were produced in partnership with StoryCenter, a nonprofit organization that pioneered the global digital storytelling movement. Several of the stories were also filmed by Philippa Wharton, an independent video producer This national #justB Storytelling Campaign is being promoted in collaboration with the Association of Asian Pacific Community Health Organizations (AAPCHO), and was made possible by educational grants from Arbutus Biopharma, focused on developing new hepatitis B therapeutics, and Dynavax Technologies, focused on developing a new adult two-dose hepatitis B vaccine. About the Hepatitis B Foundation: The Hepatitis B Foundation is the nation’s leading nonprofit organization solely dedicated to finding a cure for hepatitis B and improving the quality of life for those affected worldwide through research, education and patient advocacy. To learn more, visit www.hepb.org, read our blog at hepb.org/blog, follow us on Twitter @HepBFoundation, find us on Facebook at facebook.com/hepbfoundation or call 215-489-4900.   # # #

    https://www.hepb.org/news-and-events/news-2/hepatitis-b-foundations-justb-campaign-gives-voice-to-personal-stories-during-may-hepatitis-awareness-month/
  • Glossary of Terms Related to Hepatitis B

    A - B - C - D - E - F - G - H - I - J - L - P - S - V Acute Hepatitis Infection:  A new, suddenly occurring infection. It occurs with a person’s first exposure to the hepatitis B virus. Albumin: A protein made in the liver that assists in maintaining blood volume in the arteries and veins. If the liver is damaged, then the albumin can drop to very low levels, which may cause fluid to leak into the tissues from the blood vessels, resulting in edema or swelling. In acute liver failure, there is an accumulation of fluid in the abdomen that is known as "ascites". Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP): A protein secreted into the blood during pregnancy or when cancer cells are present. Increased levels may indicate the development of liver cancer, which is why the simple AFP blood test is included in the regular monitoring of those which chronic HBV.  Antibody:  A protein molecule produced by the immune system in response to a foreign body, such as the hepatitis B virus and its antigens. Antibodies can be produced in response to a vaccine or to a natural infection. They circulate in the blood to protect against future infections. Hepatitis B blood tests often look for the surface, core and “e” antibody. Anti-HCV (antibody to hepatitis C virus):  The antibody produced against the hepatitis C virus (HCV). Its presence in the bloodstream often indicates HCV infection. This antibody has not been shown to protect people against hepatitis C, nor does it show a resolved hepatitis C infection. Antigen:  A protein on the surface of a virus, bacteria or cell that can stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies as a defense mechanism. For example, blood tests for hepatitis B look for the surface, core and “e” antigen. Ascites:  A large, abnormal accumulation of fluid in the abdomen that can occur due to liver failure, cirrhosis and liver cancer. This condition requires immediate medical attention. Asymptomatic:  Refers to infection or disease without signs of illness. Many patients with hepatitis B or C do not have any symptoms during a new or chronic infection; they are considered to be asymptomatic. Bilirubin: The liver usually clears this end product of hemoglobin (the portion of the red blood cell that carries oxygen in the blood) when it normally breaks down. If the liver is damaged and bilirubin accumulates in the blood, a person can become jaundiced (yellowed eyes and skin). Bloodborne Pathogens:  Substances present in the blood that can cause infection or disease. Hepatitis B and h\C viruses and HIV are bloodborne pathogens because they are spread through direct contact with blood and body fluids and can cause an infection. Carcinoma:  A new growth or malignant tumor that can occur throughout the body (e.g. hepatocellular carcinoma refers to liver cancer). Chronic Hepatitis B Infection:  A patient who tests positive for the hepatitis B virus for more than six months is considered to have a chronic hepatitis B infection. Cirrhosis:  A serious liver condition characterized by irreversible scarring of the liver that can lead to liver failure and death. Alcohol and chronic viral hepatitis (such as chronic hepatitis B and C) can cause continuous inflammation of the liver, which can lead to excess scar formation or fibrosis. Scarring results in the loss of liver cells and impairs liver function. Clinical Trials:  Carefully controlled studies that are conducted in humans who volunteer to test the effectiveness and safety of new drugs, medical products or techniques. All drugs in the United States undergo three phases of clinical trials before being approved for general use. Clotting Factors: Proteins made in the liver that are important in maintaining normal blood clotting. Disruption in the blood's ability to clot may indicate that the liver is not creating enough clotting factors. A severe shortage in clotting factors may indicate that a liver transplant is needed. Complete Blood Count (CBC): A test that measures the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, the amount of hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets. Low white blood cell and platelet counts may indicate liver scarring.  Coinfection: A coinfection occurs when there are simultaneous infections by more than one virus. For example, an individual can be coinfected with both the hepatitis B and C virus. DNA Polymerase: An enzyme essential to the replication of the hepatitis B virus. Most of the current antiviral drugs used against HBV interfere with the DNA polymerase in order to stop the virus from reproducing. Decompensated Cirrhosis: A late-stage cirrhosis accompanied by abnormal blood tests and other complications. At this stage of the disease, evaluation for liver transplant becomes an option. E-Antibody (HBeAb or anti-HBe): Produced by the immune system temporarily during acute HBV infection or consistently during or after an increase in viral replication. Spontaneous conversion from e-antigen to e-antibody (a change known as "seroconversion") is a predictor of long-term clearance of HBV in patients undergoing antiviral therapy.  Encephalopathy:  Serious brain function abnormalities experienced by some patients with advanced liver disease. Symptoms most commonly include confusion, disorientation, insomnia, and may progress to a coma. Fatty Liver: Refers to a condition where fat accumulates in liver cells and makes up more than 5 to 10 percent of the liver’s weight. This accumulation of fat does not generally cause liver damage, but it needs to be monitored. In some cases, it can accelerate liver damage in people with hepatitis B. There are two types of fatty liver:  alcoholic liver disease (ALD) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Fibrosis (hepatic): Growth of fibrous tissue in the liver where there is usually liver cell damage or destruction. Fibrosis can lead to cirrhosis, an even more serious liver disease. Gastroenterology:  The field of medicine that focuses on the function and disorders of the GI system, which includes the esophagus, stomach, pancreas, intestines, and liver. Genotype:  A pattern of genetic information that is unique to an individual or group. The hepatitis B virus has a pattern of genetic information unique to itself. Doctors may determine the genotype to help decide the best treatment. Currently, there are seven known genotypes for hepatitis B; however, its significance is not well established for clinical use. Hepatitis C treatment can be based on genotype. Hepatitis:  Refers to “inflammation of the liver”, which can be caused by many things such as viruses, bacterial infections, trauma, adverse drug reactions, or alcoholism. Inflammation of the liver caused by viruses is called “viral hepatitis”. There are many different viruses that attack the liver, including hepatitis A, B, C, D, E, F, G Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg): The surface protein of the hepatitis B virus that is used as a marker to detect infection. If this blood test is positive, then the hepatitis B virus is present. Hepatitis B Surface Antibody (HBsAb or anti-HBs): The antibody formed in response to the surface protein of the hepatitis B virus. It can be produced in response to vaccination or recovery from an actual hepatitis B infection. If this test is positive, then the immune system has successfully developed a protective antibody against the hepatitis B virus that provides long-term immunity. Hepatitis B Core Antibody (HBcAb or anti-HBc): This antibody only refers to a part of the virus itself; it does not provide any protection or immunity against HBV. This test is often used by blood banks to screen blood donations. A positive test indicates a person may have been exposed to the hepatitis B virus, but the result can only be confirmed in relationship to the above two tests. Hepatitis B “e” Antigen (HBeAg): A marker of a high degree of hepatitis B infectivity, it correlates with a high level of viral replication. It is primarily used to help determine the clinical management of patients with chronic hepatitis B infection. Hepatitis B Immune Globulin (HBIG):  A medication that is given as a “post-exposure” treatment to prevent hepatitis B. This means that HBIG is given after a person has been exposed to potentially infected blood or infected bodily fluids, which can include but is not limited to - contact with blood or through a needle-stick, infants born to infected women, and through sexual contact or close household contact with an infected person. HBIG is often used as a post-liver transplant treatment. HBV DNA: A marker of viral replication.  It indicates how much viral load or hepatitis B virus (HBV) is in a patient. High levels of HBV DNA mean a patient’s blood and body fluids are very infectious. HBV DNA, usually measured in international units per milliliter (IU/mL),  is used to assess and monitor the treatment of patients with chronic HBV infection. Some tests may measure HBV DNA in copies per milliliter. There are about 5.8 copies in every one international unit. Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC):  A malignant tumor of the liver, otherwise known as liver cancer. Chronic hepatitis B and C infections may increase the risk of developing liver cancer. Hepatocyte:  A liver cell. Hepatologist:  A doctor who specializes in the study and treatment of liver disease. Ideally, patients with chronic hepatitis B or C should see a “hepatologist”. Hepatology:  The field of medicine that focuses on diseases of the liver. It is a sub-specialty within gastroenterology. Histology:  The field of medicine that studies tissue under the microscope. Histological evaluations of liver biopsy samples are helpful in the diagnosis and monitoring of possible liver damage in chronic HBV and HCV carriers. IgG anti-HBc: A subclass of the hepatitis B core antibody (HBcAb or anti-HBc) is a marker of past or current infection with HBV.  If it and HBsAg are both positive (in the absence of IgM anti-HBc), this indicates chronic HBV infection.IgM anti-HBc: A subclass of the hepatitis B core antibody (HBcAb or anti-HBc).  Positivity indicates recent infection with HBV (less than 6 months).  Its presence indicates acute infection. Jaundice: A condition characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes. Jaundice is a symptom of many disorders, which can include viral hepatitis, alcoholism, poisoning, and abnormal breakdown of red blood cells or gallbladder disease. This symptom requires immediate medical attention. Liver Biopsy:  The removal of a small piece of tissue from the liver using a special needle. The tissue is examined under a microscope to look for the presence of inflammation or liver damage. Liver Enzymes: Proteins that catalyze chemical reactions needed for bodily functions. Levels of certain enzymes, such as ALT and AST are higher when the liver is injured, as they leak into the bloodstream when the cell is injured or destroyed. Liver Function Tests (LFT’s):  Refers to a group of blood tests used to evaluate the function of the liver. The tests can be used to diagnose and monitor chronic viral hepatitis as well as other liver diseases. The two most common tests include the following liver enzymes: Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST): An enzyme that is released into the blood by the liver and other tissues or organs. It is generally used as a marker for liver or biliary damage. Alanine Aminotransferase (called either ALT or SGPT): An enzyme that is released into the blood by damaged liver cell. It is used as a marker for liver cell damage. The ALT test is considered to be a more accurate reflection of liver inflammation than AST because other organs such as the heart can also produce AST. (e.g. the level of AST will increase on a blood test during a heart attack). ALT levels are included in the regular monitoring of all chronic hepatitis B patients; this test can also useful in deciding whether a patient would benefit from therapy or evaluating the effectiveness of an ongoing treatment. PCR (polymerase chain reaction):  A highly sophisticated scientific method of detecting the presence of hepatitis B virus DNA or hepatitis C virus RNA in the blood. This test can be conducted on the same sample of blood obtained with the hepatitis B panel of blood tests; no extra doctor’s visit is needed. Perinatal Transmission (vertical transmission):  The transmission of an infectious disease, such as hepatitis B, from a mother to her newborn. The most important mode of HBV transmission globally is from the mother to her newborn baby. If a pregnant woman is chronically infected with hepatitis and is also HBeAg-positive, her newborn baby has a 90 percent chance of becoming infected and developing lifelong, chronic hepatitis B infection. Of these children, about 25 percent will die later from chronic liver disease or liver cancer. To prevent these outcomes, all pregnant women should be tested for hepatitis B, and all newborns of infected mothers should receive the first dose of vaccine and a dose of HBIG within 12 hours after delivery. Pregnant women with high viral lods (exceeding 200,000 IU/mL) may be treated with antivirals during her pregnancy to reduce the risk of perinatal transmission. Platelets:  Cells that are produced in the bone marrow. Platelets control bleeding by causing the blood to clot. The liver produces the clotting factors involved in this process. If the liver is damaged, then clotting will also be impaired. Seroconversion: A change in status from antigen positive/antibody negative to antigen negative/antibody positive. For example, seroconversion of e-antigen positive to e-antibody positive indicates a significant decrease in the amount of hepatitis B virus. Seroconversion of hepatitis B surface antigen positive/surface antibody negative to surface antigen negative/surface antibody positive connotes being "cured" of a chronic HBV infection since the virus has been cleared from the liver and bloodstream.  Vaccine:  A medication that stimulates the production of antibodies to protect against a specific disease. There is a hepatitis A vaccine, hepatitis B vaccine, and a combination vaccine that provides protection against both hepatitis A and B at the same time. Viral hepatitis:  Inflammation of the liver caused by viruses that specifically attack the liver: hepatitis A, B, C, D, E, F, and G viruses. Viral Load:  Measurement of the actual amount of virus in the bloodstream such as hepatitis B and C. Virus:  A tiny microorganism, smaller than bacteria, which can invade the body and cause disease. A virus can reproduce itself exactly or mutate and make small changes. The ability of a virus to change slightly in each infected person is why treatment of viral diseases is so difficult.  

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