Hepatitis B

Why are hepatitis, particularly hepatitis B, a major issue in West and Central Africa?

Hepatitis B is a major public health problem. An estimated 254 million people worldwide live with chronic hepatitis B, resulting in approximately 1.2 million deaths each year from cirrhosis and liver cancer.

One-quarter of those infected live in West and Central Africa, where the prevalence among adults is estimated to be between 8% and 12%.

Vaccination is a major step forward, but vaccination at birth remains insufficiently implemented, even though it is essential for preventing transmission to newborns.

The triple elimination programs for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B represent a significant opportunity to better combat this disease.

However, screening, follow-up, and treatment remain severely inadequate, particularly due to a lack of trained personnel, the structure of health systems, and available funding.