Digital Innovations and Community-Led Approaches to Hepatitis B Control in Low-and Middle-Income Countries
Uchechukwu Bethel Abioke
*
Department of Physiotherapy, Basic Medical Sciences, University of Benin, Nigeria.
Ohale Sandra N
Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria.
Fe-Akpoyomare Blessing O.
Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Physical Sciences, University of Benin, Nigeria.
Inyang, Inimfon Kufre
Department of Medicine and Surgery, College of Health Sciences, University of Uyo, Nigeria.
Oyebamiji Hafeezat Omolabake
Department of Medicine and Surgery, College of Health Sciences, University of Ilorin, Nigeria.
Somtochukwu Nwekeoma
Department of Health Informatics, Swansea University, Swansea, Wales, United Kingdom.
Olaitan Oluwadare
Applied Mathematics Department, School of Physics, Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science, Delaware State University, USA.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Despite the availability of effective vaccines and antiviral therapies, hepatitis B remains a major public health challenge in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Early-life infection, limited access to timely care, and weak health systems contribute to high rates of chronic infection and hepatitis B-related mortality. Innovative, scalable, and context-appropriate strategies are urgently needed to accelerate elimination efforts.
Methods: This narrative review synthesizes evidence from multiple databases, global reports, and policy documents, focusing on digital health interventions and community-led programs across the hepatitis B care continuum, including awareness, screening, vaccination, treatment, and long-term follow-up.
Results: Digital tools have been shown to improve care continuity while community-led programs increase access, reduce stigma, and build trust, with integrated approaches showing the greatest impact.
Conclusion: There is a pressing need to combine digital tools with community-led programs to strengthen Hepatitis B prevention and care in low-and middle-income countries. Researchers, health workers, and community organizations must collaborate to implement these approaches to effectively eliminate Hepatitis B.
Keywords: Hepatitis B, digital health, mHealth, public health, LMICs, community-led interventions