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China's Hepatitis B Market to Double by 2012

Hepatitis B can be minimized through childhood immunization, better sanitary conditions and use of condoms. While no government would like this disease to continue a more sensible question is if the government can afford it. It is like many cancer patients in China just die without chemotherapy. Even with chemotherapy it is always the inexpensive ones which usually are the ones with less desirable outcomes.

There are many many hepatitis patients in both Taiwan and Hong Kong for reasons mentioned above.

China's Hepatitis B Market to Double by 2012

It is reported in cities like Shanghai or Guangzhou the hepatitis B patients accounts for more than 10% of population. The potential for this market is huge.

However one must also consider the cost of these medications. In the US those pegylated interferons cost the pharmacy about US$900-$1200 per month. Even if the manufacturers are willing to take a mark down, may be to 25% of the US cost, it still represents a major expense for most Chinese households.