Hepatitis B and cancer: what to know

Hepatitis B infects liver cells and may cause inflammation that continues for years. Repeated inflammation and healing can change liver tissue and, in some people, contribute to liver cancer. Having hepatitis B does not mean that cancer is present. A clinician assesses your history, examination and test results to decide how closely your liver should be monitored.

Many people have few symptoms while liver changes develop. Tiredness or dark urine can have several causes, but they deserve medical review when they are new, persistent or accompanied by yellowing of the skin or eyes.

Arrange follow-up with a doctor familiar with hepatitis B. Monitoring may include blood tests, a liver function test and imaging when clinically appropriate. Take prescribed antiviral medicine exactly as directed and do not stop it without advice. Avoid alcohol, check before using supplements or medicines that may affect the liver, and keep household or sexual contacts informed about hepatitis B vaccination.

Bring previous results and a complete medicine list to appointments. You can read more about [Hepatitis B](/conditions/hepatitis-b/) and [Hepatitis B Vaccination](/treatments/preventive-care-and-vaccination/hepatitis-b-vaccination/).

Seek prompt medical advice for yellow skin or eyes, worsening abdominal swelling, vomiting blood, black stools, confusion, or severe weakness. Contact a clinician soon about persistent [Dark Urine](/symptoms/dark-urine/) or [Fatigue](/symptoms/fatigue/), especially if these occur with appetite loss or unexplained weight change. Emergency symptoms such as confusion, fainting or heavy bleeding need urgent emergency care.

Ask whether your hepatitis B is active, whether you need antiviral treatment, which liver tests or scans are appropriate, and how often follow-up should occur. Also ask which medicines, supplements and alcohol limits are safest for your liver.