TWiV Special: A shot of HepB with Chari Cohen

This episode explores the Hepatitis B Foundation, its history, and its multifaceted approach to combating Hepatitis B globally. The interview features Chari Cohen, the foundation's president, who details her journey from a molecular biology background to leading this organization. Against the backdrop of a significant lack of awareness and stigma surrounding Hepatitis B, especially in the medical community outside of hepatology, the foundation undertakes public health research, advocacy, and capacity building initiatives. More significantly, the foundation's work includes legislative policy changes, such as securing protections under the Americans with Disabilities Act for individuals with Hepatitis B in the U.S. For instance, the foundation's storytelling program empowers individuals with lived experience to become advocates, significantly changing public perception and driving policy changes. The discussion also highlights the challenges of underfunding and underprioritization of Hepatitis B research and treatment, emphasizing the urgent need for increased global commitment to eliminate the disease. Ultimately, this interview underscores the crucial role of dedicated organizations like the Hepatitis B Foundation in raising awareness, driving research, and advocating for policy changes to address this significant global health issue.