Genetic Risks and Hepatitis B Vaccination for Families

Please ask your question?

Hello:
1.
If the mother does not have favism (G6PD deficiency), is the probability of her male child having it very low?
2.
If the test shows no hepatitis B antibodies, should the hepatitis B vaccine be administered? Is the vaccination out-of-pocket?

Lai, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/07/08

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello,
1.
Favism, medically known as "Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency," is a common X-linked hereditary metabolic disorder.
Males who carry this gene on their X chromosome will exhibit the condition.
However, females may carry this gene and show no symptoms, but this does not mean that their male children will not inherit the condition.
2.
Conditions for receiving the Hepatitis B vaccine: You must have negative Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and negative Hepatitis B surface antibody (HBsAb).
The vaccine must be self-paid.
A physician's evaluation is required before vaccination.
Thank you for your inquiry.
I hope this answers your needs.

Reply Date: 2010/07/08

More Info

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver and can lead to chronic disease, liver cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Understanding the genetic risks and vaccination options for families is crucial, especially for those with a family history of the virus.

1. Genetic Risks: Hepatitis B is not inherited in a genetic sense. Instead, it is transmitted through blood and bodily fluids. The concern regarding genetic risks often arises from the fact that if a parent is a carrier of the virus, there is a risk of vertical transmission (from mother to child) during childbirth. However, if your mother does not have a genetic condition like G6PD deficiency (often referred to as "蠶豆症" in Chinese), it does not directly relate to the risk of Hepatitis B transmission. The risk of a male child contracting Hepatitis B from a carrier parent is not influenced by the mother's genetic conditions but rather by whether she is a carrier of the virus herself. If she is not infected, the risk to her children is negligible.

2. Vaccination Against Hepatitis B: If you have been tested and found to have no antibodies against Hepatitis B, it is advisable to receive the Hepatitis B vaccine. The vaccine is highly effective in preventing infection and is typically administered in a series of three doses over six months. The cost of the vaccine may vary depending on your location and healthcare provider, and it may not always be covered by insurance, so it is best to check with your healthcare provider regarding the specifics of coverage and any out-of-pocket expenses.

3. Importance of Vaccination: Vaccination is crucial, especially for individuals who may be at risk of exposure to the virus. This includes family members of Hepatitis B carriers, healthcare workers, and individuals with multiple sexual partners. The vaccine not only protects the individual but also helps in reducing the overall prevalence of the virus in the community.

4. Family Considerations: For families with a history of Hepatitis B, it is essential to ensure that all family members are vaccinated, especially if there is a known carrier in the family. Regular screening and monitoring for Hepatitis B can help in early detection and management of the disease. If a family member is found to be a carrier, they should undergo regular check-ups, including blood tests and liver ultrasounds, to monitor liver health.

5. Conclusion: In summary, while Hepatitis B is not a genetic condition, understanding the risks associated with it and ensuring proper vaccination can significantly reduce the chances of transmission within families. If you or your family members have concerns about Hepatitis B, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider who can offer personalized advice and vaccination options. Regular health check-ups and awareness of the disease can lead to better health outcomes and peace of mind for you and your family.

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