Antivirals and Birth-Dose Vaccines Reduce Hepatitis B Transmission and Cancer Risk

Hepatitis B virus remains a leading global health priority, contributing to approximately 9.7 million annual cancer deaths, with liver cancer ranking as the third most common cause of oncologic mortality [1, 2]. While the overall cancer death rate has declined in some regions due to improved screening and tobacco control, the burden of infection-related malignancies remains disproportionately high in resource-limited settings [3, 4]. Vertical transmission from mother to child is the primary driver of chronic infection, yet global coverage for the critical birth-dose vaccine remains insufficient to achieve elimination goals [5, 6]. Although infant vaccination series starting at six weeks provide significant protection, they may not adequately address the risks associated with high maternal viral loads [7, 8]. A recent review provides a comprehensive update on the diagnostic protocols, vaccination strategies, and antiviral interventions necessary to manage this complex disease across the lifespan, offering clinicians a clear roadmap to reduce liver-related morbidity.