Malays Fam Physician, 2006;1(1):8-10.
MyJurnal

Abstract

Hepatitis B virus infection is a global public health problem. The prevalence of hepatitis B infection is higher in Asia. The rate of HBsAg carriage in the general population ranges from 2-20%. The WHO has recommended that by the end of 21st century hepatitis B vaccination should be incorporated into routine childhood immunisation programmes for all nations. Vaccination against hepatitis B remains the most important aspect of preventive care. Most importantly hepatitis B vaccination can protect individual from fulminant hepatitis, liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Primary care physicians must be familiar with the pathology, epidemiological and clinical presentations of this disease and be able to refer patients for appropriate treatment at the tertiary centre.