World Hepatitis Day: Surveys Reveal Significant Knowledge Gaps on Risks, Symptoms, and Testing Options

28.07.2026 – 17:31

GlaxoSmithKline GmbH & Co. KG

Munich (ots)

Recent surveys have highlighted alarming gaps in the understanding of hepatitis B among the German population. Many respondents are unaware of how the virus can be transmitted and the potential long-term consequences of an infection. According to the findings, 64% of participants stated that a doctor's recommendation would be their primary motivation for getting tested for hepatitis B.

The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) reported approximately 17,500 cases of hepatitis B in Germany in 2025, indicating a persistent high level of infection. Despite these figures, a significant portion of the population lacks adequate knowledge about the virus, with 76% of respondents rating their understanding as poor or very poor. These insights stem from two surveys initiated by GSK and conducted by the market research firm Ipsos.

In a representative online survey involving 1,000 adults aged 35 to 85, Ipsos explored knowledge and attitudes regarding hepatitis B. The results revealed that 90% of respondents had rarely or never considered the possibility of contracting the virus, and a large majority (81%) had never been tested or were unsure if they had been. A second global online survey, which included 1,059 German participants aged 18 to 54, assessed awareness of the potential late-stage consequences of chronic hepatitis B. Only 30% of those surveyed recognized that chronic infection is one of the leading causes of liver cancer.

A Silent Threat to Liver Health

Hepatitis B can manifest in both acute and chronic forms. Between 5% and 10% of acute infections in adults evolve into chronic hepatitis B, while infants infected at birth face a staggering 90% risk of developing chronic disease. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that around 240 million people globally live with chronic hepatitis B. The infection often progresses unnoticed for years, frequently presenting with vague symptoms, which heightens the risk of severe liver damage, including liver cancer. Alarmingly, 77% of survey participants could not identify any specific symptoms associated with hepatitis B. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for significantly reducing the risks of cirrhosis and liver cancer.

Despite sexual contact being one of the most common transmission routes in Germany, only 57% of respondents were aware of this risk. In contrast, 71% identified intravenous drug use as a potential mode of transmission. However, awareness of transmission during pregnancy or childbirth was notably low, with only 40% recognizing this route, despite it being a primary cause of chronic infections worldwide. Similarly, only 42% understood that unsanitary practices during tattooing or piercing could also pose risks.

Lack of Awareness Regarding Testing Coverage

Hepatitis B testing is covered by statutory health insurance for individuals who have had a specific risk exposure or as part of routine health examinations starting at age 35. However, awareness of this benefit is limited, with 65% of respondents unaware that testing could be part of their health check-up, and 43% not knowing that testing options even exist.

The most effective way to encourage testing appears to be through direct conversations with healthcare providers. A significant 64% of individuals indicated that a discussion with their doctor would motivate them to get tested. Consequently, 65% expressed a desire for reliable information directly from their healthcare providers or pharmacies, while 28% preferred public awareness campaigns.

Vaccination against hepatitis B offers the best protection against infection, yet only 40% of respondents reported being vaccinated. The main reasons cited for not being vaccinated included a lack of recommendation from their healthcare provider (45%) and general uncertainty about the necessity of vaccination (34%). Engaging in discussions about personal risk, testing options, and vaccination status with healthcare professionals can provide essential guidance. The survey results underscore significant knowledge gaps regarding the risks, testing options, and preventive measures associated with hepatitis B.

About GSK

GSK is a global biopharma company that integrates science, technology, and talent to stay ahead of diseases. For more information, visit www.de.gsk.com.

[1] Ipsos Online Survey on Hepatitis B (n=1,000), November 2025 [2] Global Chronic Hepatitis B Awareness 2026 Survey, data on file [3] European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL). EASL Clinical Practice Guidelines on the management of hepatitis B virus infection. J Hepatol. 2025;83(2):502-583. doi:10.1016/j.jhep.2025.03.018 [4] Robert Koch Institute (RKI): Epidemiological Bulletin 29/2026, July 16, 2026. DOI: 10.25646/13292 [5] Rumgay H, et al. Global burden of primary liver cancer in 2020 and predictions to 2040. J Hepatol. 2022;77(6):1598-1606. doi:10.1016/j.jhep.2022.08.021 [6] Jeng et al. Hepatitis B: A Review. JAMA. 2026 Jun 2;335(21):1879-1892 [7] WHO, Global hepatitis report 2026, April 2026 [8] Robert Koch Institute (RKI). Epidemiology of Hepatitis B and C Virus Infections in Germany in 2024. Epidemiological Bulletin. 2025;30:3-16. DOI: 10.25646/13292 [9] World Health Organization (WHO). (2026). Hepatitis B Key Facts. WHO Newsroom. Available at: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hepatitis-b (Accessed: June 2026)