[Screening and Prevention of Chronic Viral Hepatitis]

Abstract

Chronic viral hepatitis, particularly chronic hepatitis B and C, is among the leading global causes of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Despite effective treatment options such as virus suppressive nucleos(t)ide analogues for HBV and curative direct acting antiviral therapies for HCV, many infections remain undetected. The WHO aims to eliminate hepatitis B and C as public health threats by 2030, targeting a 90% reduction in new infections and a 65% reduction in deaths. Germany supports these objectives through its BIS 2030 strategy, which emphasizes prevention, identification of at-risk groups, education, and treatment. A central component is screening to diagnose chronic infections early and initiate therapy promptly. This article summarizes practical current recommendations for the prevention and early detection of chronic viral hepatitis, with a particular focus on hepatitis B and hepatitis C, including complementary aspects regarding hepatitis D and hepatitis E in immunocompromised individuals.