The Canadian HBV Network is committed to advancing Hepatitis B patient care, research and education. Through this, we hope to improve quality of life and long-term health outcomes for HBV patients in Canada and worldwide.
Please reach us at canhepb@ucalgary.ca if you cannot find an answer to your question.
1. Hepatitis B is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis B virus. The virus is the number one global cause of severe liver damage (cirrhosis) and liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma).
2. The hepatitis B virus is transmitted by direct (very close) contact with blood and certain body fluids of an infected person. Most people who have a chronic (or life-long infection) are infected as infants (transmitted during childbirth) or in early childhood.
3. Hepatitis B is a silent epidemic. Most people living with life-long hepatitis B have no symptoms. It is important that you ask your health care provider if you should get tested for hepatitis B. Testing is the only way to know if you have hepatitis B and whether you need treatment.
4. Hepatitis B is preventable. There is a vaccine that can protect you against hepatitis B. All babies should be vaccinated because very young infants are at the highest risk of developing a life-long infection if they are exposed.
5. Hepatitis B is treatable. There are very good drugs that cannot cure but they can help prevent development of severe liver disease. You can work in any occupation, have a family, and expect to enjoy a normal, long and healthy life. There is hope that someday we will find a cure for hepatitis B.
If you have concerns about your liver health, Hepatitis B status, or overall health, please see your Family Doctor. They are able to refer you to your local Infectious Disease, Gastroenterology or Hepatology Specialist.
The Canadian Liver Foundation assists people coping with liver disease through a variety of channels; online, in person and via their National Help Line at 1 (800) 563-5483. They answer your questions after diagnosis, help you understand the disease, and provide you with the resources you need. Through their Peer Support Network, they can also connect you with others who have gone through the same experience.
The American-based Hepatitis B Foundation is a nonprofit organization that fosters scientific innovation to create a world free of hepatitis B and liver cancer. In October 2020, the Hepatitis B Foundation released its final report on the externally led patient-focused drug development meeting for hepatitis B. This meeting was an opportunity for patients to discuss the significant physical and emotional impact of living with hepatitis B, as well as major challenges with current treatment.
The World Hepatitis Alliance is an international network of organizations in over 100 countries working towards the goal of eliminating hepatitis by 2030. This group leads the fight against hepatitis through advocacy, capacity building and awareness raising.
HepBcommunity.org is a global peer-led, volunteer-driven forum to support those living with and affected by hep B. It is supported by the Hepatitis B Foundation (USA) and Westmead Hospital Foundation (Australia).
The Hepatitis B Foundation interviewed Dr. Coffin about Hepatitis Delta Coinfection -- the challenges and the opportunities ahead.
An example of a cure: Mother to child transmission of hepatitis B eliminated in England
The Canadian Hepatitis B Network, The Canadian Hepatitis C Network, the Canadian Liver Foundation, and Action Hepatitis Canada joined forces in Ottawa on May 9, 2024 to present five asks to the federal government to bring urgency to eliminating hepatitis by 2030.
More highlights from this event can be found here: