The benefits of early intervention are significant. Early diagnosis allows those who have chronic hepatitis B or C infection to take steps towards preventing transmission to others, access current medical therapies and adopt lifestyle changes that will protect the liver from further harm.
For example, safe and effective vaccine is available for the prevention of HBV infection. In addition, treatment of HBV infection in eligible people reduces long-term progression to cirrhosis and will reduce the rate of liver cancer.
Unlike most chronic viral infections, HCV infection is curable. With effective treatment, the virus can be completely eradicated in the majority of patients, preventing liver failure and greatly reduces the risk of liver cancer.