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Updated: Jul 8, 2026
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Detection of Low Copy Number Integrated Viral DNA Formed by In Vitro Hepatitis B Infection
Published on: November 7, 2018
Hepatitis B virus infection in Singapore
1Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre and National University Hospital, Singapore.
Gut
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Singapore
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Singapore has a 5-6% hepatitis B carriage rate, endemic in the region.
- Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) positivity peaks in children and 40-49 year olds.
- Horizontal transmission within families is a key infection route for children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the epidemiology of hepatitis B infection in Singapore.
- To assess the prevalence of chronic hepatitis B and its complications.
- To evaluate the impact of vaccination programs on hepatitis B incidence.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) positivity rates across age groups.
- Assessment of viral replication rates and transmission routes.
- Review of chronic hepatitis B, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) prevalence.
- Evaluation of hepatitis B vaccination program data.
Main Results:
- Hepatitis B carriage rate is 5-6%, with highest HBsAg positivity in paediatric and 40-49 year old groups.
- Chronic hepatitis affects up to 50% of carriers; 20% have cirrhosis.
- Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients are up to 75% HBsAg positive.
- Acute hepatitis B cases decreased by 60% between 1989-1995 due to vaccination.
Conclusions:
- Hepatitis B vaccination has reduced acute infections in Singapore.
- Long-term complications of chronic hepatitis B remain a significant public health challenge.
- Continued monitoring and management of chronic hepatitis B carriers are essential.
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