Guardians of liver health: the vital role of nurses in hepatitis B prevention and care

Viral hepatitis is a major global cause of liver disease, caused by five distinct viruses: hepatitis A (HAV), hepatitis B (HBV), hepatitis C (HCV), hepatitis D (HDV), and hepatitis E (HEV). While HAV and HEV infections are generally self-limiting and rarely progress to chronic conditions, untreated infections with HBV and HCV can lead to chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, or liver cancer. Among these, HBV infection represents a significant public health threat, contributing to a substantial global burden due to its potential for chronicity and its association with severe liver complications. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that in 2022, an estimated 1.2 million people were newly infected with the hepatitis B virus (HBV), reflecting the ongoing transmission and public health challenge posed by the disease. This alarming prevalence highlights the critical need for comprehensive prevention, screening, and management strategies. Nurses play an essential role in addressing this public health issue by promoting hepatitis B vaccination, conducting community outreach programs, providing patient education, and supporting long-term disease management to prevent complications and improve quality of life. Given their unique position within healthcare systems, policymakers should recognize and leverage the expertise of nurses to accelerate progress toward achieving hepatitis B elimination targets, ensuring a more comprehensive and accessible public health approach. The current review highlights the pivotal role of nurses in prevention and management to curb the spread of viral hepatitis B and move closer to the goal of elimination.