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Is chronic hepatitis B being undertreated in the United States?

C Cohen1, S D Holmberg, B J McMahon

  • 1Hepatitis B Foundation, Doylestown, PA 18902, USA. chari@hepb.org

Journal of Viral Hepatitis
|December 15, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection significantly increases liver disease risk. Despite available treatments, many infected individuals in the US remain undiagnosed or lack access to care, creating a treatment gap.

Area of Science:

  • Hepatology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a primary risk factor for severe liver conditions like cirrhosis, liver failure, and hepatocellular carcinoma.
  • The United States has an estimated 1.4 to 2 million individuals living with chronic HBV infection.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the reasons behind the significant gap between the number of people with chronic HBV infection and those receiving antiviral treatment.
  • To identify barriers contributing to underdiagnosis and undertreatment of chronic HBV in the US.

Main Methods:

  • This report analyzes the disparity by discussing potential factors influencing treatment access and diagnosis rates.
  • It examines issues such as lack of screening, insurance coverage, health education, and access to specialized medical care.

Main Results:

  • A substantial number of individuals with chronic HBV infection remain undiagnosed due to insufficient screening.
  • Access to necessary care, including insurance, education, and referrals, is limited, particularly for disproportionately affected populations.

Conclusions:

  • The low rate of antiviral prescription for chronic HBV infection is linked to a combination of undiagnosed cases and significant access barriers.
  • Addressing screening deficits and improving healthcare access are crucial for managing the chronic HBV epidemic.

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