Articles tagged with Hepatitis B
A study shows that Alaska's universal hepatitis B vaccination programme has wiped out hepatitis B infection and liver cancer cases in the state's young people. The program, introduced in the 1980s, led to a significant decrease in acute symptomatic HBV infection and liver cancer cases among Alaskan Native children, with no reported cas...
A new meta-analysis reveals that Indigenous Peoples are significantly more likely to contract viral hepatitis due to factors like poverty, injection drug use, and lack of access to healthcare. The study shows disparities in prevalence rates across North America, South America, Australia, and New Zealand.
A recent study found that men with hepatitis B are more than twice as likely to develop severe liver disease as women, even when accounting for lifestyle and environmental factors. Drinking alcohol significantly increases liver disease risk in both men and women, but sex remains the strongest indicator of liver disease severity.
Researchers at the University of York and Leeds have made a major discovery in Hepatitis B Virus assembly, paving the way for new drug treatments. The team identified an 'assembly code' in the genetic material that allows the virus to create a protective casing.
A Taiwanese study found that statin use was linked to a decreased risk of decompensation in cirrhotic patients with HBV- or HCV-related cirrhosis. Statin use showed a favorable outcome and may benefit patients with other causes of cirrhosis as well.
A study of 1350 cirrhotic patients found that statin use reduced the risk of liver decompensation in a dose-dependent manner. Statins may provide benefits to patients with HBV- or HCV-related cirrhosis, improving survival rates.
The WHO's Global Hepatitis Report provides a comprehensive understanding of the disease's impact, revealing 325 million people living with viral hepatitis and 1.34 million annual deaths. To reverse this trend, scaling up birth dose vaccination against hepatitis B and improving access to affordable treatment are key actions needed.
A new form of pegylated interferon, TRK-560, has been shown to reduce hepatitis B virus infections more effectively than conventional agents. The novel compound's attachment of PEG reduces neutralizing antibodies and prevents protein cutting enzymes from cleaving it.
A recent study published in Neurology found that people with hepatitis B are 76% more likely to develop Parkinson's disease than those without the virus. Those with hepatitis C have a 51% increased risk. The research linked both viruses to an increased risk of Parkinson's disease, contradicting previous findings on hepatitis B.
Despite progress in implementing primary and secondary prevention measures, Europe still has a long way to go to eliminate viral hepatitis by 2030. The authors highlight the need for improved data collection and monitoring of interventions along the continuum of care to track progress and reduce mortality.
Researchers found that tree shrews have a natural immunity to HBV, with cytokine interferon-gamma playing a key role in the activation of hepatic natural killer cells. The study also revealed the importance of extracellular vesicles in regulating innate immune responses to HBV infection.
A new study by Thomas Jefferson University shows that community outreach workers may help increase hepatitis B vaccine uptake among Asian Americans, reducing the risk of liver cancer. The program involved lay health workers who provided personalized calls to encourage vaccinations.
A new study from Imperial College London and the Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia found that a 'screen-and-treat' programme for hepatitis B can reduce deadly complications of the virus. The initiative is cost-effective and feasible in Sub-Saharan Africa, where around 80 million people are infected.
A Phase 1 study found that NVR 3-778, a first-in-class HBV capsid assembly inhibitor, is well-tolerated when combined with pegylated interferon. The treatment reduced levels of hepatitis B more than NVR 3-778 alone, with the largest reduction seen in the combination group.
A new study reveals high levels of hepatitis B markers among unvaccinated refugee populations in northern Germany, highlighting a significant public health concern. The research found that nearly one million asylum applications were lodged in Germany last year, with many coming from unstable states where health systems have broken down.
A new study demonstrates that antiviral therapy for immune tolerant Hepatitis B patients prolongs overall survival and reduces the risk of developing liver cancer (HCC) and scarring of the liver (cirrhosis). Nucleos(t)ide analogue treatment significantly lowers HCC and cirrhosis risks.
A new study found a potential link between long-term oral nucleos(t)ide analogue treatment for hepatitis B and an increased risk of colorectal and cervical cancer. Regular screening is recommended to prevent these cancers in patients receiving such treatment. The study analyzed data from 45,299 patients with chronic HBV infection.
Studies demonstrate that tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) is as effective and safer than tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) in treating chronic Hepatitis B, with fewer negative changes in bone and kidney parameters. TAF improves patient safety while sustaining efficacy in patients with chronic Hepatitis B virus infection.
A new study published in Nature Communications has identified predictors and response mechanisms to the hepatitis B vaccine. Researchers found that elevated levels of inflammatory response transcripts correlate with weaker responses, while augmented B-cell responses are linked to stronger reactions.
Researchers found a prophylaxis treatment can prevent new-onset hepatitis B in children who receive livers from donors previously infected with HBV. The regimen consisted of HBV vaccine injections and immunoglobulin, maintaining high antibody levels against the virus.
SLU scientist John Tavis has received a $2.2 million NIH grant to develop a cure for the hepatitis B virus. His team aims to create a combination therapy that can kill the virus, which causes chronic infection and liver damage in millions of people worldwide.
Researchers at Hiroshima University developed a new animal model of hepatitis B using humanized mice and found that CTLA4Ig suppressed damage to liver cells infected with the virus. This model is useful for studying immunological reactions and viral clearance in hepatitis B virus infection.
A global study found that chronic hepatitis B virus infection affects approximately 248 million people worldwide, with a disproportionately high burden in some countries. The prevalence of the disease varies significantly between countries, with up to 20% of the population infected in certain regions.
The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is currently required in only two US states, with vaccination coverage substantially below the Healthy People 2020 target. A recent study found that HPV vaccination rates are lower than those for other adolescent vaccines, such as hepatitis B and meningococcal conjugate vaccines.
A study found that people with rheumatoid arthritis are less protected by the hepatitis B vaccine, highlighting increased risk of infection despite vaccination. The vaccine's efficacy was lower in RA patients compared to those without the condition.
Researchers at University College London have found that hepatitis B virus can persist in the liver by exploiting starved T cells. The study suggests that boosting the immune system and counteracting the liver's suppressive effect could potentially clear the infection.
A comprehensive review highlights the need for better evidence on hepatitis B and C testing in European countries. The study found gaps in knowledge, particularly for high-risk populations such as migrants and men who have sex with men.
TG1050 has been shown to reach the clinical goals considered a cure for CHB, including elimination of HBsAg and seroconversion. The study achieved these goals in 30% of TG1050-injected mice, supporting the move to a first-in-man study.
A recent study by the University of Liverpool suggests that the hepatitis B drug entecavir can be mass-produced for £24 ($36) per person per year, making it more accessible to developing countries. This could lead to significant reductions in liver cancer and cirrhosis cases, as well as lower death rates from Hepatitis B.
Researchers have developed a combination treatment using an antiviral and anti-cancer drug that has proven 100% successful in eliminating hepatitis B virus infections in preclinical models. The treatment targets the cell signalling pathways used by the virus, causing infected cells to die.
Research suggests that immuosuppressives and anti-cancer drugs can reanimate hepatitis B in previously infected individuals, according to a study published in Hepatology. The study authors emphasize the importance of routine screening for HBV before starting treatment with immunosuppressives or anti-cancer drugs.
The Life Sciences Discovery Fund has awarded $1.2 million in Proof of Concept grants to five Washington-based organizations, focusing on new therapies for cancer, diabetic macular edema, hepatitis B, and severe epilepsy. Additionally, the fund has announced two commercialization-focused awards totaling $600,000.
A study found that entecavir significantly reduced the incidence of hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related hepatitis and HBV reactivation among patients receiving rituximab-based chemotherapy. The rates were lower in the entecavir group compared to the lamivudine group, with significant reductions in HBV-related complications.
Researchers at Walter and Eliza Hall Institute have developed a potential cure for chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. The new treatment, birinapant, triggers the breakdown of proteins that prevent infected cells from self-destructing, allowing infected cells to die.
Dr Marc Pellegrini has been awarded a $1.225 million fellowship to focus on progressing his research into chronic infections such as HIV, hepatitis B and tuberculosis. The grant will enable him to explore how microbes evade the immune system and apply these discoveries to eradicate these diseases.
A new therapy to eradicate liver cells infected with hepatitis B virus has shown promising results in pre-clinical research. The treatment aims to clear patients of the disease, offering hope for those with chronic HBV infection. Dr Greg Ebert's work could lead to significant improvements in health outcomes for Australians and worldwide.
Two studies published in Gastroenterology found that antiviral therapy can reduce the risk of liver cancer in patients with chronic hepatitis B infection. Younger patients with minimal liver damage and those treated with nucleos(t)ide analogues showed a significant reduction in liver cancer risk.
The USPSTF recommends screening for hepatitis B virus (HBV) in nonpregnant high-risk adolescents and adults, as well as postnatal immunoprophylaxis to prevent maternal transmission. Studies have shown that these interventions can reduce mortality and hospital readmissions related to heart failure.
Deaths from viral hepatitis have surpassed HIV/AIDS as a preventable cause of death in Australia, with an estimated 1,500 liver cancer deaths per year. Chronic viral hepatitis can lead to cirrhosis or liver cancer if left untreated, but access to effective care and treatment can reduce these risks.
Studies show sequential combination therapy with peginterferon and nucleoside analogues results in high complete response and HBsAg loss rates. Baseline HBsAg level and rate of decline during treatment predict treatment response. Adding peginterferon to entecavir enhances response rates, viral decline, and facilitates discontinuation.
Researchers are searching for a hepatitis B cure drug using a new assay and partnering with robots to screen thousands of potential candidates. The goal is to find a treatment that can halt the illness, as current drugs only treat it.
Scientists have discovered a way to selectively degrade viral DNA in the cell nucleus of infected liver cells, opening up new treatment options for hepatitis B. This breakthrough may allow for the development of a treatment that can heal hepatitis B without damaging the host cell.
A randomized trial found that home-based health education increased HBV screening rates and knowledge about the disease among Hmong Americans, overcoming cultural and language barriers. The study suggests using lay health workers to improve access to screenings and diagnoses.
Researchers successfully measure and block a previously unstudied enzyme to stop the virus from replicating, potentially leading to a cure for patients. The breakthrough, which was aided by advances in HIV research, may lead to new hepatitis B drugs that can suppress the virus far enough to cure patients.
The hepatitis B virus X protein (HBx) represses microRNA-148a, leading to increased levels of the oncogenic protein HPIP and subsequent oncogenic transformation in liver cancer. This study demonstrates a cancer-associated virus promoting carcinogenesis through direct manipulation of a microRNA.
A new study suggests that chronic hepatitis B virus infection may be as high as 2.2 million cases in the US, with foreign-born individuals contributing significantly to this burden. The prevalence is higher than previously reported and affects up to 400 million individuals worldwide.
A 16th-century Korean child's mummified liver has revealed a unique hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotype C2 sequence common in Southeast Asia, providing insight into the virus's evolution and spread. The ancient genome is the oldest full viral genome described in scientific literature.
Researchers found that certain drugs can activate hepatitis B viruses in liver cells, increasing viral replication. This activation is linked to the stress protein p38, which can lead to complications in transplant patients.
The CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommends routine HPV vaccination for males aged 11-12 years, catch-up vaccination for males aged 13-21. For adults with diabetes, Hepatitis B vaccinations are now recommended for those under 60 and over 60 based on specific conditions.
A study by Brown University researchers found that tens of thousands of people in the US contract hepatitis B every year due to missed vaccination opportunities. Despite high-risk adults having access to healthcare providers, thousands went unvaccinated, particularly among those with limited health insurance and older adults.
A new report questions adequacy of disinfection regulations in nail salons and barbershops, suggesting potential transmission of bloodborne pathogens. The study emphasizes the need for further research to define the true magnitude of this risk.
The PATH B program provides a comprehensive educational resource for patients with chronic hepatitis B, improving understanding of the disease and enhancing patient-physician dialogue. The program aims to increase patient engagement in disease management, resulting in better quality of life.
The study estimates that around 10 million injecting drug users globally are infected with HCV, while 1.3 million have HBV infection. The authors emphasize the need for increased attention to viral hepatitis in IDUs and enhanced access to treatments.
A new INFORMS study proves that mathematical models of hepatitis B interventions are cost-effective and have saved millions of lives. The models verified the effectiveness of screening, treating, and vaccinating millions of Asian and Pacific Islander adults in the US and millions of children in China.
A study found that only 59.8% of health care students had documentation of complete hepatitis B vaccination, while 83.8% were protected against infection when tested for antibodies. The rates are lower than the US government's Healthy People 2010 goal of 90% hepatitis B vaccination coverage among health care workers.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found an accelerated hepatitis B vaccination schedule to be effective and well-tolerated in high-risk pregnant women. The study's findings suggest that a shortened 12-week vaccine regimen can provide long-term immunity and is comparable to the standard 6-month adult schedule.
A recent study found that nearly 40% of virological breakthroughs in patients receiving nucleoside analogs for chronic hepatitis B were not related to antiviral drug resistance. Non-adherence to medication was identified as a common cause of reemergence.
The Bristol-Myers Squibb Foundation has awarded four new grants to improve HBV and HCV awareness, prevention and care in China and India. The grants aim to reduce hepatitis-related health disparities in Asia, with a focus on mobilizing local communities' healthcare armaments.
Researchers have discovered 19-million-year-old genomic fossils of hepatitis B-like viruses in songbirds, revealing a long-dated history of these viruses. The study provides new insights into the evolution of hepadnaviruses and their potential role in predicting human viral pandemics.
A study published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases suggests that infant immunity to hepatitis B lasts for at least 5 years after primary vaccination, making booster shots unnecessary. The research, led by Alessandro Zanetti, found that children vaccinated with hexavac maintained protective antibody levels for over 5 years.