Hepatitis B and C

Long-term hepatitis B and C infections can lead to liver cancer, but a vaccine, testing, and treatment can lower the risk.

Rosa: Hi, I'm Rosa. Long-term hepatitis B and C can lead to liver cancer, but there is a lot you can do. Let's talk about vaccines, testing and treatment.

Hepatitis means swelling and damage of the liver. Hepatitis B and hepatitis C are viruses that can cause long-term liver infection. Over many years, this can scar the liver and lead to liver cancer. Many people with these infections feel fine and do not know they have them.

Hepatitis B spreads through blood, sex, and from a birthing parent to a baby. There is a safe vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the hepatitis B vaccine for all adults ages 19 to 59. Adults 60 and older with risk factors should get it, and other adults 60 and older may get it if they want.

The CDC also recommends that all adults get tested for hepatitis B at least once in their life. There is no cure for long-term hepatitis B, but medicines can control it and protect the liver. People with hepatitis B may need regular liver checks to look for cancer.

Hepatitis C spreads mainly through blood, such as sharing needles or other drug equipment, or from blood transfusions before 1992. The CDC recommends that all adults 18 and older get a hepatitis C test at least once. Pregnant people should be tested during each pregnancy. People with ongoing risks should be tested regularly.

There is no vaccine for hepatitis C, but there is a cure. Most people can be cured with pills taken for 8 to 12 weeks. Curing hepatitis C lowers the risk of liver damage and liver cancer. If you were cured but already had liver scarring, you may still need regular liver checks.

Hepatitis B vaccine

Recommended for all adults 19 to 59, and for adults 60 and older with risk factors.

Hepatitis B test

A blood test recommended for all adults at least once.

Hepatitis C test

A blood test recommended for all adults at least once, and in each pregnancy.

Hepatitis C cure

Pills taken for a few months cure most people. Ask your doctor about cost help.

Cirrhosis

Heavy scarring of the liver. People with cirrhosis need regular liver cancer checks, often with an ultrasound.

Protect your liver

Limit alcohol, keep a healthy weight, and do not share needles, razors, or toothbrushes.

• Ask your doctor if you have ever been tested for hepatitis B and C.
• Ask if you have had the hepatitis B vaccine.
• If you have hepatitis B or C, ask about treatment and how often to check your liver.
• Ask about testing family members and partners if you have hepatitis B.

Last updated: 2026-10-27. Medically reviewed by Veli Bakalov, MD, medical oncologist (October 2026). General education from Step by Step, the patient portal of HemeOncBuddy.