[Exploring hepatitis B virus throughout life: transmission, outcomes and problems]

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Virology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a major global health concern.
• Current HBV control strategies require evolution to address the entire lifespan.
• A comprehensive, lifespan-oriented approach is needed for effective HBV prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and define the concept of "lifespan exploration of HBV transmission."
• To outline a framework for studying HBV transmission across all life stages.
• To identify research gaps and new perspectives for HBV control.

Main Methods:

• Focusing on three key population groups: HBsAg-positive reproductive populations, pregnant women/mothers, and community populations.
• Integrating microscopic (genetic, molecular immunological) and macroscopic (epidemiological) research methods.
• Analyzing HBV transmission pathways and outcomes throughout the human lifespan.

Main Results:

• This approach generates comprehensive data on HBV transmission across diverse life stages.
• It identifies critical risk areas and challenges in current HBV research and control.
• New research perspectives for HBV prevention and control are explored.

Conclusions:

• The "lifespan exploration of HBV transmission" offers a novel framework for public health.
• This strategy provides crucial insights for advancing HBV prevention and control efforts, particularly in China.
• It emphasizes a holistic, lifelong approach to combating HBV infection.