Prevalence and Risk Factors of hepatitis B and C infections in general population of Tehsil Arifwala

Abstract

According to the WHO, over 350 and 250 million individuals have been estimated as chronic carriers of HBV and HCV, worldwide. About 1.34 million deaths are attributed to HBV and HCV, globally. Objective: To estimate the seroprevalence of HBV and HCV-related hepatitis. Methods: For this purpose, a population of 300 individuals was screened for HBsAg and Anti-HCV antibodies. Data were collected from tested individuals included their age, gender, occupation. Prevalence of HBV and HCV was found at 10% and 14% respectively. Co-infection of both pathogens was observed in 1.33% of individuals. Male (18%) were more infected with these viruses as compared to females (6%). The highest percentage (75%) of HBV/HCV was in adult patients of age between 31-50 years. The various risk factor associated with the spread of viral hepatitis were also considered for a better understanding of the routes of spread of these viral infections. Results: Out of 300 screened individuals, 21% had a history of going through any dental procedure, followed by 17% with needle stick injuries. Only 7.6% of persons had a history of any blood transfusion. Conducting such type of seroprevalence studies can help the administration and health care authorities to take necessary control measures to minimize the chances of acquiring these infections by eliminating risk factors. Conclusion: Further, these surveillance studies can also play a significant role in the launch of vaccination programs in areas of high prevalence.