Hepatitis B: Controlling the virus does not mean a cure
Having a vaccine available is essential for preventing hepatitis B, but it is not enough when part of the population cannot access it.
Controlling the spread of Hepatitis B through vaccination is crucial, but it's not sufficient for a complete cure. In Brazil, limited access to healthcare in remote areas like the Amazon and North regions presents a significant challenge. The vaccine is free for all ages, but those born before its expansion or lacking healthcare access remain at risk.
Symptoms may not appear for years, and many only discover infection during routine exams or blood donations. Chronic infection can lead to severe liver damage, even cirrhosis, and liver cancer. While treatments like tenofovir and entecavir can reduce viral levels, they don't eliminate the virus. The virus remains in cells as cccDNA, which can reactivate if treatment stops.
The goal is to achieve a functional cure, where the virus is controlled with no detectable HBsAg in the blood. RNA interference (RNAi) is a promising strategy, using small RNA molecules to target and destroy viral proteins. Though promising, these RNAi therapies are still in early clinical trials. Further research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of these treatments in replicating natural infection and ensure long-term benefits.
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