Millions of Indians could be living with hepatitis B without being aware of it, as the virus often remains symptom-free for years while silently damaging the liver. Health experts warn that delayed diagnosis significantly increases the risk of serious complications, including cirrhosis, liver failure and liver cancer.
India Among Countries with Highest Hepatitis B Burden
India has the second-highest hepatitis B burden globally, with an estimated 40–50 million chronic carriers. According to liver transplant surgeon Dr. Ankur Garg, many infected individuals do not experience symptoms for decades, allowing the virus to cause chronic inflammation and irreversible liver damage before it is detected.
Simple Blood Test Can Save Lives
Doctors recommend that every adult undergo a one-time HBsAg blood test to determine their hepatitis B status. Those who test negative should get vaccinated, while individuals who test positive should seek regular medical monitoring and treatment to prevent disease progression. Early diagnosis can help patients avoid severe liver complications and improve long-term outcomes.
Virus Spreads Beyond High-Risk Groups
As per The Times of India, hepatitis B is not limited to high-risk populations. The virus can spread from mother to child during childbirth, through infected blood or bodily fluids, and even by sharing personal items such as razors or toothbrushes. This makes awareness, screening and vaccination essential for the general population, not just those considered at high risk.
Vaccination and Monitoring Remain Key
Although hepatitis B has no definitive cure, it is highly preventable through vaccination and can be effectively managed with antiviral medications when diagnosed early. India introduced the hepatitis B vaccine under the Universal Immunisation Programme in 2002, but millions of adults remain unvaccinated. Experts stress that routine testing, timely vaccination and regular follow-up are the most effective strategies to reduce the country’s hepatitis B burden and prevent life-threatening liver disease.