ACIP review of the hepatitis B birth dose vaccination remains a grave concern - Please read more here.

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  • Breaking barriers and improving outcomes: Overcoming challenges in hepatitis B and delta screening, prevention and linkage to care among people who use drugs in Philadelphia

    Little is known about the prevalence of hepatitis B and delta viruses (HBV/HDV) among people who use drugs (PWUD). Despite being a high-risk population, awareness of these viruses is still low among both community members and healthcare providers. Two recent studies conducted in Philadelphia, which were led by the Hepatitis B Foundation in partnership with Prevention Point Philadelphia, highlight different aspects of this ongoing public health concern. The first identified barriers to screening, prevention and linkage to care, while the other aimed to dismantle those barriers. The first study explored the obstacles to HBV and HDV prevention, diagnosis and follow-up care. The study evaluated current knowledge levels and identified the needs and preferences of both people who use drugs and providers that serve them. Data was collected through an anonymous online provider-focused survey, and interviews were conducted with community members, and both medical and non-medical staff from different harm reduction settings in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Interviews with key informants revealed that: 48% of interviewed providers reported confusion about insurance coverage as a barrier to HBV screening. 45% of providers mentioned the need to address and prioritize other pressing health needs, as a challenge to conducting HBV screening. 52% of providers noted patient hesitancy as a barrier to HBV vaccination. 39% of providers identified the need to administer multiple doses as a challenge for completing the HBV vaccination series. 62% of providers reported low knowledge of HDV tests as a barrier to HDV testing. 31% of providers indicated complexity of guidelines as a challenge in HDV testing. Overall, awareness of HBV and HDV in the community, and among staff and health care workers was low, and stigma related to drug use and harm reduction was a significant barrier to care. There is an urgent need to address this issue in a non-judgemental and non-stigmatizing way that is

    https://www.hepb.org/blog/breaking-barriers-improving-outcomes-overcoming-challenges-hepatitis-b-delta-screening-prevention-linkage-care-among-people-use-drugs-philadelphia/
  • Lived experiences of clinical trials and how patient insights can improve equity in process and outcomes

            Authors: Lori Scott, Amanda Goldring, Joe Balestreri, Philip Kwame Yeboah, Kenneth Kabagambe, and Prince O. Okinedo   Patient involvement in research means they are included as active partners in all stages of the research process. In other words, patient involvement ensures that research is carried out with patients, instead of research being done to patients [1].     Patient involvement is essential throughout the drug development and clinical trial process to ensure patients’ clinical needs and preferences are met [2]. When clinical trial teams do not involve patients as research partners to identify appropriate research outcomes and co-create study designs, the teams may fail to achieve meaningful outcomes. More and more researchers are realizing that the personal experiences of patients and their caregivers are not just useful, but vital to the design of clinical trials.    Patient participation in clinical research is crucial for informing patient recruitment and retention efforts that can ultimately speed up the development and potential market availability of medicines and diagnostics [3]. In the end, patients are the intended recipients of the products of clinical research, and if patients are actively involved in research, they can effectively improve outcomes.    The following four sections share real life stories and lived experiences of individuals trying to participate in clinical trials, and the challenges they have faced. The patients and caregivers who contributed to this blog have personal experiences with applying for, enrolling in, and being rejected from clinical trials, and know of the treatment consequences when patients are not involved in their care plans. Based on their experiences, they have suggested many ways to incorporate the patient voice into drug development and clinical trial design, from recruitment, enrollment and retention methods to informational materials for patients, to help

    http://www.hepb.org/blog/lived-experiences-clinical-trials-patient-insights-can-improve-equity-process-outcomes/
  • Podcast Recap: Current Treatments in Development for Hepatitis B with Dr. John Tavis

                            In a recent B Heppy episode, Dr. John Tavis, a molecular microbiologist at St. Louis University School of Medicine, shared updates on curative therapies for hepatitis B along with insights on how treatments for hepatitis B are researched and approved for use.  Hepatitis B is a virus that can cause serious liver disease such as liver cancer or liver failure if undiagnosed, unmanaged or without proper intervention and treatment. While there is no cure for hepatitis B at this time, there are treatment options available to manage the virus. Research to find an optimal and functional cure for hepatitis B is ongoing and clinical trials have been very successful in advancing research pertaining to the cure.   In some experimental studies conducted around the globe, 30% to 40% of patients have achieved functional cure. In smaller studies, approximately 50% of patients have obtained functional cure. However, research on the cure and the progression of these clinical interventions are still ongoing. While the future looks promising for a functional cure for hepatitis B, existing treatments should not be undermined or overlooked as they provide effective protection from serious liver disease such as cirrhosis or liver cancer.   There are key terms that are important to understand related to drug development and the hepatitis B space. Below we describe complete, functional and partial cure definitions according to researchers.   Complete, Functional, and Partial Cure  Complete Cure: Elimination of all traces of hepatitis B including loss of surface antigen and HBV DNA.  Functional Cure: the loss of hepatitis B surface antigen and undetectable HBV DNA levels, although trace amounts of HBV DNA may persist in the liver.   Partial Cure: A stable suppression of the virus with undetectable HBV DNA levels.  The progress on the cure:  Current progress and research indicate that a

    http://www.hepb.org/blog/podcast-recap-current-treatments-development-hepatitis-b-dr-john-tavis/
  • What’s the Difference?: Herbal Remedies and Supplements vs. Western Medicine

    What’s the Difference?: Herbal Remedies and Supplements vs. Western Medicine Around the world, people consider the use of herbal remedies or supplements as a natural treatment for hepatitis B and/or D infection. These natural remedies have historically been advertised to boost the immune system and improve liver health. Herbal remedies or supplements are described as products made from botanicals or plants used to treat diseases and maintain health. They can be produced in a variety of forms including liquid extracts, teas, tablets/capsules, bath salts, oils, and ointments4. Why do people choose to use herbal remedies? The use of these products over time has social-cultural influences related to the distrust of and unfamiliarity with western medicine for management of hepatitis B or D infection. While herbal remedies have been used widely across cultures and contexts, patterns of racism, medical mistreatment, and inadequate delivery of care in western medicine have influenced the present state of treatment practices. In response to these barriers to sensitive and effective health care delivery, many groups such as Hmong and African communities often rely on herbal remedies and supplements to treat medical conditions and ease suffering. Silymarin, milk thistle, and Kampo medicine The distrust of western medicine has contributed to more widespread use of supplements such as silymarin (milk thistle) and Kampo medicine, as alternatives to manage hepatitis B or D infection. Many people believe that Silymarin can improve liver health through its antioxidant and free radical-fighting properties. Traditional Kampo medicine has been used for over 2,000 years to treat a variety of diseases including hepatitis B. One herbal treatment that is frequently used is bupleurum which many people believe can protect the liver or heal liver damage. Despite possible liver health benefits, neither supplement is a treatment for hepatitis B or D and may sometimes cause further harm to the

    http://www.hepb.org/blog/herbal-remedies-and-supplements/
  • Elevate Your Voice

    Almost 300 million people worldwide live with chronic hepatitis B, but most of their stories remain untold. Often this is due to the negative stigma surrounding the virus, fear of discrimination, lack of community awareness or understanding of the disease and lack of support for those who wish to speak out publicly about hepatitis B. No one knows hepatitis B better than the people living with the virus. Elevating the voice of people who live with hepatitis B is so important to bring awareness to hepatitis, help fight discrimination, and keeping up the momentum to find a cure for hepatitis B. Storytelling is an important to way to talk about an individual’s journeys with hepatitis B. Since 2017, the Hepatitis B Foundation has partnered with StoryCenter to host six #justB digital storytelling workshops for over 40 participants from more than 20 U.S. states and Canadian provinces. The #justB campaign empowers people with lived experience to share their stories with the goals of increasing awareness and advocacy around hepatitis B, decreasing stigma and discrimination, and promoting testing, vaccination and linkage to care and treatment. The latest #justB workshop was held in Berkeley, Calif., from March 18-20, 2022. It brought together five highly motivated adults living with hepatitis B who wanted to learn how to share their stories to educate communities and inspire action. We will be highlighting these patient advocates and their stories over the next few months. Here are overviews of Adama and Chelle’s stories: Adama, who was born in West Africa and immigrated to the U.S. decades ago, recalls when he tested positive for hepatitis B and how he soon realized that the illness his mother suffered from must have also been hepatitis B. “As I began to learn about the virus, I realized, ‘Oh, I think that’s what killed my mom.” Having lost his mother to the disease, Adama knows the importance of testing, early detection and monitoring for

    http://www.hepb.org/blog/voice/
  • Hepatitis B Foundation Announces Annual Fundraising Event to Go Virtual on April 24

    Doylestown, April 8, 2020 – In this challenging time, the Hepatitis B Foundation continues to serve people living with hepatitis B, their families and health care providers, and planning continues for its principal annual fundraiser. The foundation is adapting its 2020 Crystal Ball Gala from an in-person event to the nonprofit organization’s first “Pajama Gala.” This online, web-based event will be held on Friday, April 24, from 7-8 p.m. EST. Details are posted on www.hepbgala.org, with a link to registration, which is free and open to the public. This live, virtual fundraiser will feature an online silent auction with a wide array of items, such as a Philadelphia Eagles helmet signed by Carson Wentz and other players, an overnight stay at the Kalahari Resort and a Florida adventure that includes Busch Gardens and the Kennedy Space Center. Other packages offer excellent local art, jewelry and gift cards to some favorite places. A link to the auction, which will be open from 10 a.m. EST April 20 through 10 a.m. EST April 25, is posted at www.hepbgala.org. The Hepatitis B Foundation will present its prestigious Baruch S. Blumberg Award during the event to John M. Taylor, Ph.D., professor emeritus at the Fox Chase Cancer Center, in recognition of his valuable contributions to hepatitis B and hepatitis D research. The foundation will present its Community Commitment Award to Susana Lorenzo-Giguere, Esq., for her outstanding work at the U.S. Department of Justice, litigating cases of discrimination against people living with hepatitis B. “While we can’t hold a face-to-face event due the coronavirus pandemic, we are hoping that our supporters will join us for this unique online experience,” Jean Holmes, vice president for institutional advancement at the Hepatitis B Foundation, said. “We’re inviting everyone to use their imagination, perhaps wear their favorite PJs and comfy slippers, participate in the online auction and share photos on Facebook and Instagram. Staging the gala as a digital experience also allows us to offer the event for free, making it accessible to a much wider audience than in the past. We feel that nonprofits need to flexible and creative in challenging times and continue to communicate with our supporters in as many ways as possible.” The event’s main sponsors are Dynavax Technologies Corporation and Gilead Sciences. The foundation has chosen the hashtag #pajamagala for the fundraiser.

    https://www.hepb.org/news-and-events/news-2/hepatitis-b-foundation-announces-annual-fundraising-event-to-go-virtual-on-april-24/
  • Vaccine Schedules

    U.S Infant Hepatitis B Vaccine Schedules U.S. Children and Adult Hepatitis B Vaccine Schedules Accelerated U.S. Children and Adult Hepatitis B Vaccine Schedules International Hepatitis B Vaccine Schedules Infants Born to Women Who Have Hepatitis B: Hepatitis B Vaccine Schedules Important Information About Vaccine and Hepatitis B Immunoglobulin (HBIG) Shot Administration General Information About Vaccination Outside the U.S. U.S. Infant Hepatitis B Vaccine Schedules *Please note that the first dose should be given as soon as possible. Additional doses require minimum time intervals between doses in order for the vaccine to be effective. 3-Dose Vaccine Series for Infants (Including the "Birth Dose") Since 1991, ALL medically stable infants with a birth weight of at least 2,000 g in the U.S. are recommended to receive the first dose of hepatitis B vaccine within 24 hours of birth.  The additional 2 doses are given at 1 month and 6 months of age. 4-Dose Vaccine Combination Series for Infants (Pentavalent or Hexavalent) Combination vaccines, such as the pentavalent and hexavalent vaccines, include protection against 5 or 6 diseases, including hepatitis B. The first shot is usually given at 6 weeks of age, but in order to protect infants from hepatitis B beginning at birth, a monovalent or single dose of the hepatitis B vaccine is also recommended within 24 hours of birth. The hepatitis B vaccine series can then be completed with the pentavalent or hexavalent vaccine with the recommended schedule. NEWS: VBI Vaccines Announces FDA Approval of PreHevbrio™ for the Prevention of Hepatitis B in Adults U.S. Children and Adult Hepatitis B Vaccine Schedules *Please note that the first dose should be given as soon as possible. Additional doses require minimum time intervals between doses in order for the vaccine to be effective. 3-Dose Vaccine Series for Children and Adults The hepatitis B vaccine is an injection (or shot) that is generally given in the arm as a three-dose series on a 0, 1, and 6-month schedule. Alternative schedules may be considered, noting that a third dose at 6 months, meeting minimum intervals between doses, is needed for maximum, long-term protection. Completing the hepatitis B vaccine series, preferably beginning at birth, will ensure protection against hepatitis B, hepatitis delta and lower the lifetime risk of liver cancer. Greater than 90% of babies and up to 50% of young children who are not vaccinated and are infected with hepatitis B will have lifelong infection, which makes the birth dose essential to their protection. There are four, 3-dose vaccine brands approved in the U.S.; Recombivax HB (Merck) Engerix-B (GlaxoSmithKline) Twinrix (GlaxoSmithKline - only for adults age 18 and older) PreHevbrio (VBI Vaccines) PreHevbrio is only approved for adults age 18 and older. Study results indicate that PreHevbrio might provide increased antibody protection compared to other three-dose vaccines, and may be a better option for those with well-managed chronic conditions. For more information about PreHevbrio, you can visit www.prehevbrio.com. 2-Dose Vaccine Series (Adults >18 Only) Heplisav-B (Dynavax) is a 2-dose vaccine approved in 2017 and recommended in the U.S. for use in adults age 18 and older. The vaccine is administered as two doses given one month apart. Data released by Dynavax has increased response rates to Heplisav-B compared to some traditional three-dose vaccine brands (Engerix-B, Recombivax HB, and Twinrix) in some populations. This may be a better choice for those with hyporesponsive conditions, like diabetes, or who may have had difficulty responding to the vaccine previously. For assistance accessing this vaccine, you can contact Heplisav-B's Access Navigator at 1-844-375-4728.   Accelerated U.S. Children and Adult Hepatitis B Vaccine Schedules *Please note that the first dose should be given as soon as possible. Additional doses require minimum time intervals between doses in order for the vaccine to be effective. In some instances, it may be necessary to vaccinate within a short period of time to ensure protection before travel. There are accelerated schedules to provide the highest level of protection over a short period of time. Individuals who need an accelerated schedule must have a booster dose at 1 year to ensure long-term protection. Note that the 2-dose Heplisav-B vaccine will also ensure maximum protection over a 1-month period without the need for a booster dose at 1 year. 4-Dose Vaccine Series for Children and Adults (Accelerated) Engerix-B (GlaxoSmithKline) is a 3-dose vaccine that can be given on an accelerated, four-dose schedule, with 3 shots administered within 2 months, and a booster dose at 1 year to provide maximum long-term protection. 4-Dose Combination Hepatitis A and B Vaccine Series (Adults >18 Only) Twinrix (GlaxoSmithKline) is a 4-dose vaccine that can be given on an accelerated schedule to provide protection against hepatitis A and B. Three doses are administered within 1 month, followed by a booster shot at 1 year. This is a common choice of vaccine for those traveling on short-notice outside the U.S. It is important to complete the booster dose at 1 year, to ensure long-term protection. 2-Dose Vaccine Series (Adults >18 Only) Heplisav-B (Dynavax) is a 2-dose vaccine and is recommended in the U.S. for use in adults aged 18 and older. The vaccine is administered as two doses given one month apart and is complete upon administration of the second dose. No booster dose is needed at 1 year to ensure long-term protection.  Additional Resource Links: Hepatitis B Vaccine Q&A International Hepatitis B Vaccine Schedules *Please note that the first dose should be given as soon as possible. Additional doses require minimum time intervals between doses in order for the vaccine to be effective. The hepatitis B vaccine is an injection (or shot) that is generally given in the arm and as a three-dose series. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a 0, 1, and 6-month vaccine schedule, though schedules may vary based on a country’s national immunization program.  Completing the hepatitis B vaccine series, preferably beginning at birth, will ensure protection against hepatitis B, hepatitis delta and lower the lifetime risk of liver cancer. Greater than 90% of babies and up to 50% of young children who are not vaccinated and are infected with hepatitis B will have lifelong infection, which makes the birth dose essential to their protection. Please note that the vaccine brand name, manufacturer and associated schedules for adults, children and infants may be unique to different countries, though there is a list of WHO prequalified vaccines. 3-Dose Vaccine Series for Infants The World Health Organization recommends all infants receive the first dose of the hepatitis B vaccine within 24 hours of birth (often called the “birth dose”) and to complete the vaccine series with additional shots at 1 month and 6 months of age. Beginning the hepatitis B vaccine at birth will ensure protection against hepatitis B for life. 3-Dose Vaccine Series for Children and Adults It is never too late to protect against hepatitis B! Children greater than 1 year of age, and adults, can be vaccinated to protect them for a lifetime against a hepatitis B infection. The vaccine is given at 0, 1 and 6 months. The third dose is needed for complete, long-term protection. If an alternative schedule is considered, ensure that a 4th booster dose is given at 1 year to provide maximum, long term protection. 4-Dose Combination Vaccine Series for Infants (Pentavelent or Hexavalent) In many countries it is standard to provide a “pentavalent vaccine” which protects against 5 diseases, including hepatitis B. Unfortunately, the first dose of the “pentavalent vaccine” is given at 6 weeks, which means babies are not being protected at birth against the hepatitis B virus. In order to fully protect babies from the hepatitis B virus, newborns must receive the first dose of the hepatitis B vaccine within 24 hours of birth. This should be the hepatitis B “monovalent vaccine,” which means a vaccine that only protects against hepatitis B. Babies can then complete the vaccine series with three doses of the combination “pentavalent” vaccine, beginning at six weeks of age. It is very important that babies receive the “monovalent” hepatitis B vaccine at birth, (not the “pentavalent vaccine”) in order to protect against a lifelong chronic hepatitis B infection. Infants born to moms who are infected with hepatitis B are at extremely high risk of becoming chronically infected after delivery, unless they receive the first dose of the hepatitis B vaccine within the first 12-24 hours of life. Additional Resource Links: World Health Organization (WHO) on hepatitis B vaccine Pentavalent vaccine FAQ World Health Organization (WHO) prequalified list of vaccines Infants Born to Mothers who Have Hepatitis B: Hepatitis B Vaccine Schedules *Please note that the first dose should be given as soon as possible. Additional doses require minimum time intervals between doses in order for the vaccine to be effective. Protecting Your Baby Infants born to women with hepatitis B must receive accurate doses of hepatitis B vaccine and hepatitis B immune globulin (if recommended and available) to ensure complete protection. In order to protect these infants, medications should be given immediately after birth in the delivery room or within the first 12-24 hours of life*.   * See Testing and Treatment During Pregnancy section for details. Please note that testing of all pregnant women for hepatitis B is a global recommendation.  3-Dose Vaccine Series for Infants (Including the "Birth Dose") The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that infants born to hepatitis B positive mothers receive the first dose of the hepatitis B vaccine within 24 hours of birth, and ideally a dose of hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG). These shots must be followed by the additional vaccine doses given on the recommended schedule. In the U.S., infants should follow a 1 month and 6-month schedule for the additional two doses.  4-Dose Combination Vaccine Series for Infants (Pentavalent or Hexavalent) Combination vaccines, such as the pentavalent and hexavalent vaccines, provide protection against 5 or 6 diseases, including hepatitis B. The first shot is usually given at 6 weeks of age, but in order to protect infants from hepatitis B beginning at birth, a monovalent or single dose of the hepatitis B vaccine is also recommended within 24 hours of birth. Their hepatitis B vaccine series can then be completed with the pentavalent or hexavalent vaccine on the recommended schedule. Important Information About Vaccine and Hepatitis B Immunoglobulin (HBIG) Shot Administration Where available, the hepatitis B “birth-dose” and HBIG should be administered within 24 hours of birth in order to prevent the transmission of hepatitis B from mother to child. It is very important that the shots be given in opposite limbs, to ensure the highest effectiveness. Please see chart above for more information. General Information About Vaccination Outside the U.S. In developing countries, the pentavalent vaccine, a combination 5-in-one vaccine that protects against five diseases, diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, Hib and hepatitis B, may be given to babies more than 6 weeks of age, and can be given up to 1 year of age. The first dose is given at 6 weeks, and the second and third doses are given at 10 and 14 weeks of age.  The pentavalent vaccine may be made available free of charge with the support of GAVI, the vaccine alliance. Check the GAVI country hub to see the resources and immunizations that may be available: http://www.gavi.org/country/ For babies born to mothers with hepatitis B, waiting for the first dose of the pentavalent vaccine is too late and will NOT protect the baby from vertical or horizontal transmission of hepatitis B. Babies born to a mother with hepatitis B have a greater than 90% chance of developing chronic hepatitis B if they are not properly treated at birth. WHO recommends the hepatitis B vaccine within 24 hours of birth for ALL babies. Plan ahead and inquire about the availability and cost of the monovalent (single), birth dose of the vaccine, as it is not a GAVI provided immunization. This is particularly important to women who are positive for hepatitis B.   If you are unsure of your hepatitis B status, please be sure your doctor tests you for hepatitis B! For babies NOT receiving the pentavalent vaccine, the first dose of the monovalent hepatitis B vaccine must be given within 24 hours of birth, followed by the remaining 2-3 doses of the hepatitis B vaccine according to schedule. For babies receiving the pentavalent vaccine, the first, monovalent dose of the hepatitis B vaccine is given within 24 hours of birth, and the second and third doses of the HBV vaccine will be included in dose 1 and dose 2 of the pentavalent vaccine. Making sure babies get the birth dose hepatitis B vaccine is critical to eliminating hepatitis B. The Center for Global Hepatitis Elimination published a review of strategies to improve implementation of hepatitis B vaccine birth dose worldwide, especially in limited-resource settings. This can be a useful resource to help organizations improve hepatitis B vaccine birth dose completion around the world. *WHO does not recommend a birth dose of HBIG, which may not be available in all countries. Talk to your doctor if you have questions. Page updated September 2022.

    https://www.hepb.org/prevention-and-diagnosis/vaccination/guidelines-2/
  • Hepatitis B Leaders Call for the Elimination of Hepatitis B

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 2018) – Hep B United, a national coalition established by the Hepatitis B Foundation (HBF) and the Association of Asian Pacific Community Health Organizations (AAPCHO) to address the silent epidemic of hepatitis B, hosts its sixth annual summit in Washington, D.C., July 24 to 26. The summit brings together community leaders, advocates and people with hepatitis B to promote screening and prevention strategies and advocate for equitable access to health care to further its mission to eliminate hepatitis B in the United States. Hepatitis B is caused by a virus and is the world’s most common, serious liver infection. It is also the deadliest vaccine-preventable disease, with nearly 1 million people dying each year from hepatitis B-related disease worldwide. In the United States, up to 2.2 million Americans are chronically infected with hepatitis B, 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 annual Hep B United Summit is an important way for us to share strategies and resources as we work towards eliminating hepatitis B-related health disparities among highly impacted communities in the U.S.”, said Chari Cohen, DrPH, MPH, vice president for public health and programs of the Hepatitis B Foundation and co-chair of Hep B United. The Hep B United summit is the largest convening of hepatitis B leaders from community coalitions, national nonprofit organizations, individuals and family members affected by hepatitis B, and public health agencies in the United States. The summit is part of global events to mark World Hepatitis Day, observed each year on July 28. Meeting sessions will focus on improving access to hepatitis B treatment, preventing perinatal transmission, combating hepatitis B-related stigma and discrimination, and discussing the “Know Hepatitis B” campaign, which was developed by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and co-branded with Hep B United. The summit includes visits to Capitol Hill, as leaders in the fight against hepatitis B tell federal legislators of the critical need for resources to support research for hepatitis B and liver cancer, education, screening and treatment programs. The coalition will also host a Congressional reception on July 25 to recognize Congressional and community champions and highlight the Hepatitis B Foundation’s campaign, “#justB: Real People Sharing Their Stories of Hepatitis B.” The #justB Storytelling Campaign tells the personal stories of people affected by hepatitis B to increase public awareness. "The work of Hep B United coalition partners across the country over the years has helped to ensure that new cases of hepatitis B are prevented and that persons who are already infected get the care they need. This Summit is an opportunity for us both to commemorate the progress we've made and to recommit to our shared goal of ending this hidden epidemic,” said Jeffrey Caballero, MPH, AAPCHO executive director and Hep B United co-chair. Hep B United brings together more than 36 community coalition members across the country located in 28 cities, 19 states, and Washington, D.C. The coalition focuses its work primarily in the disproportionately impacted Asian American and Pacific Islander communities (AAPI). AAPIs make up 50% of the hepatitis B burden in the U.S. and have liver cancer rates that are up to 13 times higher than Caucasian populations. During the reception, Hep B United will present an inaugural Hepatitis B Congressional Champion Award to Hawaii Senator Mazie K. Hirono. The coalition will also present three community leaders with the 2018 Hep B Champion Awards in recognition of their collaborative and successful initiatives to address hepatitis B in their communities: Arman Altug, MSW (Seattle, WA), Hep B Program Manager and Outreach Specialist at the Hepatitis Education Project (HEP) is recognized for his outreach and dedication to medically-underserved communities in Seattle. Arman has worked on medical case management to increasing education and awareness about hepatitis B in Washington state prisons. He has been committed to expanding access to health care and hepatitis B services to immigrant and refugee communities. Charles B. Wang Community Health Center (New York, NY), a federally qualified health center providing high quality and affordable health care to the underserved, with a focus on Asian Americans in New York City, is recognized for their long-time commitment and excellence in hepatitis B prevention and care. CBW has been a health care leader in addressing hepatitis B and has developed a comprehensive model program to expand hepatitis B testing, vaccination, and treatment services, including the development of an innovative “Hep B Moms” program. This successful program serves as a model in preventing and eliminating perinatal transmission of hepatitis B. Kenson and Rensely Alik (Honolulu, HI), hepatitis B patient advocates and #justB storytellers, are recognized for their leadership and commitment to addressing hepatitis B in Pacific Islander communities. Kenson was diagnosed with chronic hepatitis B in 2009 and received a liver transplant in 2011. Kenson’s and Rensely’s strength and support for each other through the pre- and post- transplant period is what helped their family overcome the many challenges and financial barriers they faced during this difficult time. They are now passionate about sharing their experience and educating communities about hepatitis B, liver failure, and liver cancer in hopes of preventing other families from going through the same hardships. Soon after Kenson’s recovery, he and Rensely launched the Micronesian Education for Liver Wellness Program (MELWP), in collaboration with Hep Free Hawaii, to increase hepatitis B awareness among Micronesian communities living in Hawaii, which has the highest rate of liver cancer in the United States. MELWP provides free in-language educational events, materials, and resources, as well as individual support and counseling. About Hepatitis B: Hepatitis B is the world’s most common serious liver infection and the primary cause of liver cancer, which is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths 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., one in 20 Americans has been infected with hepatitis B, and up to 2.2 million are chronically infected. The hepatitis B virus is transmitted through blood, unprotected sex, unsterile needles, and from an infected mother to her newborn during delivery. Although hepatitis B is preventable and treatable, there is still no complete cure for this deadly liver infection. About Hep B United: Hep B United is a national coalition established by the Hepatitis B Foundation and the Association of Asian and Pacific Community Health Organizations to address the public health challenge of hepatitis B by increasing awareness, screening, vaccination and linkage to care for all Americans, with a particular focus on Asian-American and Pacific Islander populations that are disproportionately impacted. To learn more, visit www.hepbunited.org. 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. About the Association of Asian Pacific Community Health Organization: The Association of Asian Pacific Community Health Organization (AAPCHO) is a national association of community health organizations dedicated to promoting advocacy, collaboration, and leadership that improves the health status and access of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiian, and other Pacific Islanders in the United States. To learn more, visit www.aapcho.org. # # #    

    https://www.hepb.org/news-and-events/news-2/hepatitis-b-leaders-call-for-the-elimination-of-hepatitis-b/
  • Launch of Hep B Cure Campaign for Increased NIH Funding

    Unveils a Roadmap for a Cure to Conquer Hepatitis B DOYLESTOWN, PA (May 24, 2017) – Today, the Hepatitis B Foundation launches its national Hep B Cure Campaign, which features a consensus research agenda that outlines top scientists’ priority research recommendations for hepatitis B and liver cancer. The cure research agenda is highlighted at a Congressional Briefing, hosted by the foundation in collaboration with the Congressional Hepatitis Caucus, Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI) and Representative Barbara Lee (D-CA), and with the support of the National Viral Hepatitis Roundtable and AAPCHO. The cornerstone of the Hep B Cure Campaign is a consensus research agenda that is contained in reports developed by the Hepatitis B Foundation (HBF), which convened a virtual workshop with more than 30 of the world’s leading scientists to determine what research is needed to find a cure for hepatitis B. The two reports, “A Roadmap for a Cure:Priority Areas for Chronic Hepatitis B and Liver Cancer Research” and “A Research Agenda for Curing Hepatitis B Infection,” identify specific research projects in virology, immunology, and liver cancer, as well as strategies for expanding clinical research for therapeutic drug testing. Congresswoman Grace Meng (D-NY) gives a keynote address at the Congressional Briefing. “With over 40% of my constituents being Asian Americans, hepatitis B is a priority health issue since it disproportionately impacts these communities,” said Meng. “This new roadmap for a cure is very exciting and reflects an increasing optimism among the scientific community that a cure for hepatitis B is within reach.”Congressmen Charles Dent (R-PA) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) also participated in the briefing, demonstrating the bi-partisan nature of national concern for hepatitis B. In addition, John Ward, M.D., director of the Viral Hepatitis Division at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, speaks about the growing urgency and opportunity for the discovery and development of curative therapies for hepatitis B. He cited the recent reports from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) declaring that with appropriate action, the elimination of hepatitis B is now possible. “The time is right for an aggressive and vigorous research campaign to find a cure for hepatitis B because it is a silent but deadly epidemic in the U.S. and worldwide that must be stopped, and with the recent advances in technology, it is a winnable battle,” said Timothy Block, Ph.D., president and co-founder of the Hepatitis B Foundation and its research affiliate, the Baruch S. Blumberg Institute. Globally, more than 250 million individuals live with chronic hepatitis B infection, which contributes to nearly 800,000 deaths each year, primarily from liver cancer—the second leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. In the United States alone, an estimated 2 million Americans are chronically infected with hepatitis B, and liver cancer is not only one of the nation’s deadliest cancers, but also the only cancer with rising rates of both incidence and mortality among men and women. Despite the magnitude of hepatitis B, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding for hepatitis B is only $49 million per year and has declined almost 16% since 2012. An estimated doubling of current NIH research funding for hepatitis B and liver cancer are needed to adequately fund the priority projects identified in HBF’s cure research agenda. By applying these scientific projects to existing NIH research funding mechanisms, a “professional judgment budget” was developed, documenting the need for an additional $232 million through 2023 to achieve a cure for hepatitis B. The Hep B Cure Campaign is calling for increased federal investment to accelerate the pace of research for a cure, which will also significantly improve health and economic outcomes. As part of the campaign, Members of Congress and the scientific leadership at the NIH are being briefed by the HBF on the details of the cure research agenda, and hepatitis B advocates are being mobilized to visit legislators in Washington, D.C. during July to commemorate World Hepatitis Day, as well as schedule meetings with Congressional representatives in their home districts. “Increased advocacy is necessary to focus national attention on the urgent need for hepatitis B research, with priority given to finding a cure, if we hope to eliminate hepatitis B,”said Chari Cohen, DrPH, MPH, director of Public Health of the Hepatitis B Foundation. “Together with an already effective vaccine, a cure for hepatitis B would truly make hepatitis B history." 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-foundation-launches-hep-b-cure-campaign-for-increased-nih-funding/
  • The ABCs of Viral Hepatitis

    The word “hepatitis” means “inflammation” of the liver. Hepatitis can be caused by many things such as a physical injury, bacterial infections, adverse drug interactions, and viruses. There are currently 5 viruses identified (hepatitis A, B, C, D and E) that specifically attack the liver and cause “viral hepatitis” or inflammation of the liver due to a virus. All of the hepatitis viruses cause a new or “acute” infection. But only the hepatitis B and C viruses can result in a “chronic” infection that increases the risk of a person developing cirrhosis, liver failure or liver cancer.   Type of Viral Hepatitis    Mode of Transmission / Prevention   Hepatitis A (HAV) Transmitted through contaminated food and water. Recovery from an acute infection provides lifelong protection against a future exposure to HAV. There is no chronic infection associated with HAV. Good personal hygiene and proper sanitation can help prevent hepatitis A. A safe vaccine is available for babies > 12 months, and children and adults. The hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for people with hepatitis B. No drug treatment is needed for an HAV infection.   Hepatitis B (HBV) Transmitted from an infected person to their newborn during childbirth, through other contact with infected blood (unsterile needles, shared personal items such as razors or toothbrushes), or unprotected sex. A chronic infection can occur in 90% of infants exposed to HBV, up to 50% of young children, and 10% of adults. HBV is the primary cause of liver cancer, which is the 2nd leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. There is a vaccine for newborns, children and adults. There are drug treatments but no cure for HBV.   Hepatitis C (HCV) Transmitted through infected blood, unprotected sex, and contaminated or unsterile needles. A chronic infection can occur in 55–85% of infected adults. HCV is the leading cause for liver transplants in the U.S. There is no vaccine. A cure for HCV was discovered and approved in 2013.   Hepatitis Delta (HDV)   Transmitted through infected blood, unprotected sex, unsterile or contaminated needles and from infected woman to her newborn. HDV infection is only possible if a person is already infected with hepatitis B or a person can be infected with both viruses at the same time. A HDV co-infection with hepatitis B results in more serious and rapid liver damage. The hepatitis B vaccine can prevent HDV.   Hepatitis E (HEV) Transmitted through contaminated water, food (particularly pork and shellfish), and blood products. There is no chronic infection associated with HEV. There is no approved vaccine in the USA, although China has produced and licensed a vaccine. There is no drug treatment for HEV.    

    https://www.hepb.org/what-is-hepatitis-b/the-abcs-of-viral-hepatitis/