Hepatitis B Associated Phobias – A Hurdle To Be Crossed

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infection is a Pandemic disease which not only cause hepatic or extrahepatic manifestations but also has psychological impact, mainly related to phobias associated with this illness, both in patient and their family members.

Aims and Objectives: To determine Phobias associate with Hepatitis B infection in confirmed patients of HBV and their family members.

Materials & Methods: It was prospective study conducted at Department of Medical Gastroenterology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences (PGIMS), Rohtak, over a period of three years from 1^st June, 2022 to 31^st May, 2025 during which 3000 confirmed patients of Chronic hepatitis B reported in department and various kind of phobias associated with HBV infection were studied in patient themselves and their family members. Hence data pertaining to them was used in final analysis.

Results: Out of the 3000 HBV patients, 2100 (70 %) were found to be HBV positive and 900 (30 %) were in chronic active phase or cirrhotic and were taking antiviral treatment. On analysis of 3000 HBV patients, 1980 (66%) were having phobias associated with HBV and 1020 (34%) were free of any fears associated with illness. When family members of these 3000 HBV patients were analysed, then 1770 (59%) were having phobias and 1230 (41%) were free of phobias.

Conclusion: There are various kind of phobias associated with HBV infection both in patient themselves and their family members which should be allayed on priority by the treating team for overall better outcome, both physically as well as mentally.