China has the world's largest population of hepatitis B patients, with nearly half a million people dieing of the liver disease every year, said an official with the country's Hepatitis Prevention Foundation Sunday.

Wang Zhao, head of the foundation, said about 120 million Chinese have tested positive for hepatitis B, which has become a severe public health problem in the country.

His foundation and Novartis pharmaceuticals will provide 120 lectures in major cities to raise awareness of the prevention of hepatitis.

Last November two clinics were set up for young hepatitis B patients to provide better and more personal treatment schemes that fit their age.

Hepatitis B is spread by contact with infected blood or through sex. The virus can survive only briefly outside the human body.

Source: Xinhua