“Living with Hepatitis B”: A Survey by the National Hepatitis B Forum in Metropolitan France and Overseas Territories

Introduction - In France, chronic hepatitis B affects more than 130,000 people. However, little is known about how patients themselves perceive this disease, and even less is known about their perception of hepatitis delta (D), a superinfection of hepatitis B. Methods - Initiated by the États généraux de l'hépatite B (EGHB), a questionnaire was administered from September 30, 2019, to July 15, 2020, to 205 chronic carriers of the hepatitis B virus, who were supported by volunteer health and community organizations, in metropolitan France (83%, 170 respondents) and in the overseas departments and regions (17%, 35 respondents) via written, telephone, or online methods. Results - Before testing positive, 81% of respondents did not feel concerned about the disease, and 53% said they were unaware of hepatitis B. The survey also highlights the psychological, social, and professional impact of hepatitis B: nearly 60% of respondents report finding it difficult to cope with the uncertainty regarding the disease’s progression, 50% say it affects their morale, 30% their family life, 29% their sex life, and 30% their professional life. Discussion-Conclusion - The impact of hepatitis B on daily life must be taken into account and calls for improved information and follow-up for patients and their families and friends.

Author(s): Hadey Carmen, Mélin Pascal

Publishing year: 2022

Pages: 57-63

Weekly Epidemiological Bulletin, 2022, n° 3-4, p. 57-63

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