What is the average lifespan of someone with the "small three positives"?
Disease description:
Last week, when I went to the hospital for a hepatitis B panel test, I discovered that I am a "small three positive" (HBsAg, HBeAb, and HBcAb positive) carrier. I've heard that this condition is relatively serious. What is the average life expectancy for someone with a "small three positive" result?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
There is no fixed number for the average lifespan of patients with minor three positives (a term referring to certain patterns of hepatitis B virus markers), as it is influenced by multiple factors. If a patient's liver function remains normal, there are no corresponding clinical symptoms, and antiviral treatment and regular check-ups are followed as advised by a physician, the average lifespan is generally close to that of a healthy individual. However, if patients neglect dietary and lifestyle management, such as through long-term smoking, alcohol consumption, or staying up late, it may lead to cirrhosis or even liver cancer, thereby shortening their lifespan by approximately 15–20 years compared to healthy individuals. Therefore, the average lifespan of patients with minor three positives depends on the specific medical condition, treatment, and care received. To maintain good health, these patients should develop healthy lifestyle habits, actively undergo treatment, and have regular medical examinations.
