Hepatitis B is a viral infection that can lead to serious liver damage and even liver cancer. It is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV), which is transmitted through blood and bodily fluids.
As such, it can be easily spread through sexual contact, sharing needles, and from mother to child during childbirth. However, there are ways to reduce your risk of contracting hepatitis B. In this article, we will go over some of those ways in just one minute.
What is Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that attacks the liver. It can cause both acute and chronic illness. Symptoms of acute hepatitis B include fatigue, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and jaundice.
Chronic hepatitis B can lead to liver cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer. In fact, chronic hepatitis B is the leading cause of liver cancer worldwide.
How is Hepatitis B Spread?
The hepatitis B virus can be transmitted through blood and bodily fluids. This means that it can be spread through unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles or razors, and from mother to child during childbirth.
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It can also be spread through contact with open wounds or sores.
Who is at Risk for Hepatitis B?
Anyone can contract hepatitis B, but certain groups of people are at higher risk. These include:.
- People who have unprotected sexual contact with multiple partners
- People who share needles or razors
- Healthcare workers who are exposed to bodily fluids
- People who were born to a mother with hepatitis B
- People who live with someone who has hepatitis B
How Can You Reduce Your Risk of Hepatitis B?
There are several things you can do to reduce your risk of contracting hepatitis B:.
- Get vaccinated: The hepatitis B vaccine is the best way to prevent hepatitis B. It is recommended for all infants, children, and adolescents, as well as adults who are at risk.
- Practice safe sex: Use condoms every time you have sex, and limit your sexual partners.
- Avoid sharing needles: If you inject drugs, use a new needle and syringe every time. Do not share needles with anyone, even if they have hepatitis B.
- Be careful with tattoos and piercings: Make sure the equipment is sterile, and only get tattoos and piercings from licensed professionals.
- Be cautious when traveling: Hepatitis B is more common in certain parts of the world. If you are traveling to an area where hepatitis B is prevalent, make sure to take precautions.
The Bottom Line
Hepatitis B is a serious viral infection that can lead to liver damage and liver cancer. It is transmitted through blood and bodily fluids, and can be easily spread through sexual contact, sharing needles, and from mother to child during childbirth.
However, there are ways to reduce your risk of contracting hepatitis B. The most effective way is to get vaccinated. Other ways to reduce your risk include practicing safe sex, avoiding sharing needles, being cautious with tattoos and piercings, and being careful when traveling to areas where hepatitis B is prevalent.
