Hepatitis B in Korea

Hepatitis B in Korea


Hepatitis B, a viral infection that attacks the liver, remains a significant public health concern in Korea, though its prevalence has decreased significantly thanks to widespread vaccination efforts. While the infection can be acute or chronic, Korean clinics offer comprehensive management, from vaccination and screening to advanced antiviral therapies, to control the disease and prevent complications.


Prevalence & Transmission in Korea

Korea has historically been an area with intermediate to high prevalence of Hepatitis B. However, the national vaccination program, implemented in the 1980s, has dramatically reduced the rates, especially among younger generations.

Key aspects of prevalence and transmission:

  • Decreasing Rates: The overall HBsAg (Hepatitis B surface antigen) positive rate in the general population has fallen significantly, particularly in those born after the widespread vaccination.
  • Transmission Routes: Primarily transmitted through blood or other bodily fluids. Common routes include:
  • Perinatal Transmission: From mother to child at birth (a major historical route in Korea, now largely prevented by vaccination and immunoglobulin for newborns of infected mothers).
  • Sexual Contact: Through unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected person.
  • Needle Sharing: Among intravenous drug users.
  • Contaminated Medical Procedures: (Less common now due to improved hygiene practices).
  • Chronic Infection: A significant portion of individuals who contract Hepatitis B, especially in infancy, can develop chronic infection, leading to a higher risk of liver cirrhosis and liver cancer.


Common Management & Treatment

Management of Hepatitis B in Korea focuses on prevention, screening, and treatment for chronic cases.

  • Vaccination: Universal vaccination of infants and high-risk groups is the cornerstone of prevention. This is widely available and strongly encouraged.
  • Screening: Regular screening for Hepatitis B (HBsAg, anti-HBs, anti-HBc) is common, especially for pregnant women, healthcare workers, and those with a family history of liver disease.
  • Antiviral Medications: For individuals with chronic Hepatitis B, antiviral drugs are prescribed to suppress the virus, reduce liver inflammation, and prevent disease progression. Common medications include:
  • Entecavir (ETV)
  • Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF)
  • Tenofovir alafenamide (TAF)
  • Regular Monitoring: Chronic Hepatitis B patients undergo regular monitoring of liver function, viral load, and screening for liver cancer (e.g., ultrasound and alpha-fetoprotein tests).
  • Lifestyle Management: Patients are advised to avoid alcohol, maintain a healthy diet, and manage other liver-damaging conditions.


Korean Guidelines

Korean medical guidelines for Hepatitis B are comprehensive, reflecting the country's proactive approach to managing the disease:

  • Universal Neonatal Vaccination: All newborns are recommended to receive the Hepatitis B vaccine.
  • Screening Recommendations: Specific guidelines for screening high-risk populations.
  • Treatment Indications: Clear criteria for initiating antiviral treatment based on viral load, liver enzyme levels, and degree of liver damage (fibrosis/cirrhosis).
  • Follow-up Protocols: Detailed protocols for long-term monitoring of chronic Hepatitis B patients to detect disease progression or liver cancer early.
  • Management of Special Populations: Guidelines for managing pregnant women with Hepatitis B, co-infected patients (e.g., HIV), and those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy.


Key Takeaways for Your Hepatitis B Journey in Korea

To summarize the essential points about Hepatitis B management in Korea:

  • Vaccination is Key: Widespread vaccination has significantly reduced the burden of Hepatitis B, especially in younger generations.
  • Early Detection Matters: Regular screening is vital for identifying infections, particularly for high-risk individuals.
  • Effective Antiviral Treatments: For chronic Hepatitis B, highly effective antiviral medications are available to manage the virus and protect the liver.
  • Comprehensive Care: Korean healthcare provides structured guidelines for diagnosis, treatment, and long-term monitoring of Hepatitis B patients.

We hope this guide clarifies Hepatitis B management in Korea. Always consult a qualified medical professional for personalized advice, diagnosis, and treatment.