Understanding the Global Impact
Hepatitis B is an infection of the liver caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Left unchecked, it can lead to liver cancer and remains a major health challenge worldwide. The World Health Organization estimates that in 2022 there were 254 million people living with chronic hepatitis B, with 1.2 million new infections every year.
Breaking Down Transmission
Preventing HBV starts with understanding how it spreads. Professor Mao Yilei from Peking Union Medical College Hospital in Beijing on the Chinese mainland highlights three main routes: birth, blood products, and sexual contact. By mapping these channels, individuals can tailor their protection strategies.
Turning Awareness into Action
From ensuring safe medical practices at birth to advocating for rigorous blood safety and making informed choices in intimate relationships, each of us plays a role in stopping HBV. Armed with insight into transmission, communities worldwide can work together to curb new infections and protect future generations.
Reference(s):
How can you prevent contracting Hepatitis B? A doctor explains
cgtn.com
