Hepatitis B (HBV) remains a primary driver of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma globally. Due to its frequently asymptomatic progression, a vast majority of infected individuals remain unaware of their HBsAg status, contributing to the silent spread of the virus.
Infection is often detected incidentally during hospitalization, pregnancy, or routine medical examinations. Early identification of HBsAg is critical for preventing viral transmission and reducing the long-term clinical and economic burden on healthcare systems.
Aligned with WHO global strategies and clinical guidelines for Chronic Hepatitis B, screening for the HBsAg antigen is mandated as a standard of care, particularly during the first trimester of pregnancy to prevent vertical transmission.