Community survey unveils alarming statistics on Hepatitis B: Nearly 50,000 undiagnosed “Hidden Hepatitis B Patients” in Hong Kong Half of Hepatitis B patients underestimate disease severity and neglect medical follow-up

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 December 2023 – Chronic Hepatitis B (HBV) significantly increases the risk of acute liver failure, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. To effectively manage the disease, patients require regular monitoring and timely treatment. However, a recent community hepatitis B screening and disease awareness survey conducted by Asiahep Hong Kong has revealed alarming findings. The survey aimed to provide insights into the current state of hepatitis B in the city, and the results highlight a concerning reality. Approximately 50,000 individuals in Hong Kong remain undiagnosed as “hidden hepatitis B patients.” Furthermore, the survey found that 43% of hepatitis B carriers have not sought any medical advice, and less than half of the hepatitis B patients (46%) undergo appropriate medical follow-up. These findings underscore the urgent need for increased awareness, education, and proactive healthcare interventions to address this pressing public health issue.