Hepatitis B is a liver infection that can lead to serious long-term health problems if it is not detected early. The good news is that screening, vaccination, and early care are highly effective in protecting your health and the health of your loved ones.
Who Should Be Screened?
Based on CDC recommendations for hepatitis B screening and testing:
- All adults age 18 and older should receive a one-time hepatitis B blood test.
- The screening includes three blood tests—HBsAg, Anti-HBs, and Total Anti-HBc—which help determine:
- Current hepatitis B infection
- Past infection
- Immunity from vaccination
- Adults with ongoing risk factors may need screening more frequently.
- Pregnant patients should be screened during every pregnancy to help protect both mother and baby.
Why Hepatitis B Screening Matters
Many people with hepatitis B do not have symptoms.
Without treatment, hepatitis B can lead to liver disease, liver cancer, or liver failure.
Early detection allows for monitoring, treatment, vaccination of close contacts, and prevention of spread.
Infant Hepatitis B Vaccination Remains Essential
While national discussions continue around infant vaccination practices, leading health organizations, including the Hepatitis B Foundation, continue to emphasize that:
The hepatitis B vaccine is safe and effective.
Universal vaccination, including the birth dose and the full three-dose series, plays a critical role in preventing infection and reducing liver cancer and hepatitis B–related deaths.
Early vaccination offers the strongest protection for infants.
If you have questions about hepatitis B screening or vaccination status, or the best plan for you and your family, call 1-628-228-2828 to speak with our healthcare providers.
Disclaimer: No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
