What is the primary goal of screening patients for hepatocellular carcinoma in the context of chronic hepatitis B?

Screening patients for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in the context of chronic hepatitis B focuses on the early detection of cancer. Chronic hepatitis B is a significant risk factor for the development of HCC, and patients with chronic infection are at a much higher risk compared to the general population. Early detection plays a critical role because it allows for intervention at a stage when the cancer may be more treatable, potentially improving outcomes and survival rates.

The surveillance typically involves the use of imaging techniques, like ultrasound, and biomarkers, such as alpha-fetoprotein levels. The goal is to identify HCC at an early phase, where curative treatment options like resection or ablation may be available. Hence, the primary objective of routine screening is to catch the disease early, thus highlighting why this is the correct choice in the given question regarding the management of patients with chronic hepatitis B.