Gleneagles Hospital to provide 1,000 free hepatitis B screenings

Gleneagles Hospital Hong Kong is set to launch a complimentary hepatitis B screening program for 1,000 eligible residents, aiming to enhance public awareness of liver health.

The program is open to individuals aged 37 to 70 who are not known hepatitis B carriers and are residents of the Southern District or Central and Western Districts. 

Participants can receive a free blood test, with results available at designated clinics located in Wong Chuk Hang, Central, or Sai Wan.

They will first undergo a consultation with a doctor prior to the blood test and will receive relevant health advice. 

Should it be necessary, participants will be referred to a specialist. The program also offers vaccinations and follow-up consultations at reduced rates.

Around 410,000 individuals in Hong Kong have experienced hepatitis B, according to the Thematic Report on Viral Hepatitis (Population Health Survey 2020-22) published by the Department of Health. 

The report further indicates that the infection rate is significantly higher among those born before the universal childhood immunization program was introduced in 1988.

Furthermore, the hospital highlighted that some patients do not clear the virus and develop chronic hepatitis B, which can lead to acute liver failure, cirrhosis, or even liver cancer.

(Judy Cui)