HEPATITIS B VIRUS (HBsAG)

Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) is a DNA virus and a major cause of chronic liver disease and liver cancer. It affects around 300 million people worldwide, with higher prevalence in Asia and Africa. The hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) is the first marker to appear after infection, usually within 1–2 months. Persistent presence of HBsAg without antibody development indicates chronic infection. Rapid tests can detect HBsAg in under 20 minutes without the need for laboratory equipment.