Mensah Samuel Kodua
University of Ghana, Ghana
Biography
Mensah Samuel Kodua is currently studying at the University
of Ghana, Ghana.
Abstract
Hepatitis B is an infection of the liver by the hepatitis B virus. It can be acute and self-resolving, or it can be chronic, leading to cirrhosis and liver cancer.
For most adults, HBV is a short-term illness that causes no permanent damage, but 2 to 6 percent of adults infected will develop a chronic infection that can potentially lead to liver cancer. Around 90 percent of infants with the virus will develop chronic infection.
There is no cure for HBV, but immunization can prevent initial infection. Antiviral medication can treat chronic infections.
Cause of Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is caused by infection of the body with the hepatitis B virus.
The hepatitis B virus (HBV) is found in blood and bodily fluids. It can be transmitted through semen, vaginal fluids, and blood, and it can pass from a mother to a newborn during delivery.