Chronic Hepatitis B Infection: Guidelines for Prevention, Screening, and Treatment

About this course

Hepatitis B remains a major global health concern, affecting approximately hundreds of millions of people worldwide. Chronic infection can remain asymptomatic for years before progressing to cirrhosis, hepatic decompensation, or hepatocellular carcinoma. Despite the availability of effective vaccines and antiviral therapy, underdiagnosis and treatment gaps persist. This is particularly true in high-burden regions where access to testing and long-term follow-up remain limited.

Universal hepatitis B vaccination has significantly reduced new infections. However, ongoing transmission, especially through perinatal, sexual, and bloodborne routes, highlights the need for early screening and preventive interventions. Understanding the dynamics of hepatitis B transmission and implementing timely hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) testing are critical for disease control and linkage to care.

The 2024 WHO guidelines advocate simplified diagnostic algorithms, expanded treatment eligibility, and non-invasive fibrosis assessment to enhance access and outcomes. They also emphasize integrating hepatitis B prevention, screening, and treatment programs into primary care to improve patient retention and continuity of care. For clinicians, appropriate initiation of hepatitis B treatment and consistent patient monitoring are essential to prevent progression and improve long-term survival.

This module provides an overview of current strategies for prevention, screening, and management of hepatitis B based on the 2024 WHO guidelines. It equips physicians with skills to play a proactive role in addressing chronic hepatitis B and closing existing gaps in care.