New Approaches to Chronic Hepatitis B in 2024 and Beyond

Description

This program provides an updated perspective on the evolving landscape of HBV management. With the advent of quantitative surface antigen testing now available globally, there is a significant shift in the ability to predict functional cures and establish potential stopping rules. This advancement offers hope in moving away from the notion of lifelong treatment and toward achieving functional cures. Program topics include: (1) simplification of HBV screening and treatment approaches; (2) the importance of universal access to birth-dose HBV vaccination; (3) the role of adopting a "test all, vaccinate all, and treat all" approach in the context of HBV elimination; (4) new data on tenofovir alafenamide safety and efficacy; (5) the efficacy of hepatitis B immunoglobulin-free strategies in infants born to highly viremic mothers who undergo antiviral prophylaxis; (6) expanding indications for treating mothers with HBeAg infection and the potential positive impact on global HBV control efforts; and (7) an updated global map detailing countries with mandated birth-dose HBV vaccines to aid in understanding regional disparities and inform targeted interventions. This comprehensive update aims to equip liver specialists, primary care clinicians, advanced practice providers, pharmacists, and gastroenterologists with the latest insights and strategies in HBV management. Staying informed and proactive enables all stakeholders to work collectively toward reducing the burden of HBV and, ultimately, achieving HBV elimination goals.