When a person is infected with the hepatitis B virus and develops chronic hepatitis B, the virus multiplies and attacks the liver slowly over time. Healthy liver cells become damaged and scar tissue will form, resulting in liver disease characterised by impairment of the liver’s normal functions and its ability to regenerate.¹

Chronic hepatitis B can lead to liver damage and other serious consequences, including:

	Inflammation:  When the liver first becomes infected with the hepatitis B virus, mild to moderate swelling or inflammation will occur. Liver inflammation can also lead to more serious conditions such as fibrosis, cirrhosis and liver cancer.
	Fibrosis:  Fibrosis occurs when healthy liver cells are replaced by mild to moderate scar tissue, called fibrous tissue. The liver is still able to carry out all normal functions and people may experience few to no symptoms.
	Cirrhosis:  Cirrhosis of the liver is caused by chronic liver inflammation and is characterised by permanent and severe scarring of the liver. It is also the main cause of cancer starting in the liver, or primary liver cancer. Liver cirrhosis develops in two stages: Compensated cirrhosis – Despite scarring, the liver can carry out its normal function. While symptoms may not be severe, complications can occur. Decompensated cirrhosis – Characterised by severe scarring and liver failure, in which the liver can no longer function properly.
	Liver Cancer: Malignant tumours that form in the liver. Hepatitis B is responsible for 80% of all primary liver cancer worldwide.2

While there is no cure for chronic hepatitis B, there are treatments available (tablets/injection) that work to improve the health of your liver.

Click here to see the effects of long-term damage caused by hepatitis B