| Abstract: | Much has been achieved in the field since the time of the development, manufacture, and release of a vaccine against hepatitis B based on the purification and inactivation of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). Subsequent clinical and field trials demonstrated the immunogenic potency and efficacy of this vaccine and it was hoped that the vaccine would protect millions of people not only from hepatitis B (HB) but possibly also from its sequelae including primary carcinoma of the liver (PCL). This form of liver carcinoma is known to be most prevalent among malignant diseases in men residing in South-East Asia and Africa. The high price of the vaccine is the only obstacle in the way of its large-scale use and achievement of the effective control of this infection. Currently, several South-East Asian countries investigate different approaches to reduce the price of the vaccine against HB to a level acceptable for the population. These approaches include collaboration with reliable companies or institutions of other continents which have the necessary funds and scientific technology. Some of these countries already manufacture a cheaper vaccine against HB or they are just starting it. This paper analyses the attitudes of some African countries to the latest achievements and their efforts directed at the vaccine preparation as well as discusses the situation in them as compared with that in South-East Asia. |
