Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg)

Routine annual

also

What it isA surface protein of the hepatitis B virus that appears in blood during active infection — either acute or chronic.

DoesIdentifies current hepatitis B infection.

GoodNegative HBsAg signals no active hepatitis B infection.

BadPositive HBsAg confirms active hepatitis B infection, which can be acute or chronic, and risks long-term progression to cirrhosis and liver cancer if chronic.

Standard
Negative.
Optimal
Negative (lower is good)

How to optimize

Lifestyle
Hepatitis B vaccination prevents acquisition; avoid blood and bodily fluid exposure.
Diet
Avoid alcohol if infected.
Supplements
Peptides
Drugs
Antiviral therapy for chronic hepatitis B (tenofovir, entecavir).