Vol. 6, Issue 1, Part A (2024)

Background: Chronic Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a leading cause of liver-related morbidity and mortality worldwide. Antiviral therapy has been shown to reduce viral replication, delay disease progression, and decrease the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the long-term impact of antiviral therapy on patient outcomes remains under investigation.
Objective: This study aims to evaluate the long-term outcomes of chronic Hepatitis B patients receiving antiviral therapy, focusing on the incidence of liver-related complications, progression to cirrhosis, and overall survival.
Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted involving 1,000 chronic HBV patients treated with antiviral therapy over the past 15 years. Data on liver-related complications, progression to cirrhosis, HCC development, and survival rates were analyzed. A control group of 500 chronic HBV patients who did not receive antiviral therapy was included for comparison. Cox proportional hazards models were used to assess the impact of antiviral therapy on these outcomes.
Results: The study found that patients receiving antiviral therapy had significantly lower rates of liver-related complications, progression to cirrhosis, and HCC compared to the control group. The 10-year cumulative incidence of cirrhosis was 12% in the treatment group versus 28% in the control group (p<0.001). Similarly, the incidence of HCC was reduced by 50% in the treatment group (5% vs. 10%, P=0.002). Overall survival was significantly higher in the treatment group, with a 10-year survival rate of 85% compared to 60% in the control group (p<0.001).
Conclusion: Antiviral therapy significantly improves long-term outcomes in chronic Hepatitis B patients by reducing the risk of liver-related complications, progression to cirrhosis, and HCC, while also enhancing overall survival. These findings underscore the importance of early and sustained antiviral treatment in managing chronic HBV infection and preventing serious liver disease.