A study of seroprevalence and the associated risk factors of hepatitis C at a tertiary care hospital in Mumbai

Abstract

BackgroundHepatitis C is a hepatotropic virus and shows varied presentation of signs and symptoms in positive cases. The estimated global prevalence of hepatitis C is around 1%. There is lack of data in general population in India on prevalence of hepatitis C, except in targeted population like blood banks. Aims & objectivesThe study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital to estimate seroprevalence of hepatitis C in both sexes & different age groups, association of hepatitis C with signs and symptoms, possible risk factors for the transmission and co morbidities. MethodA prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted for a period of one year (2018–2019) at a tertiary care hospital and included 600 subjects at a tertiary care hospital. A detailed history of patient was recorded. Five milliliter of blood was collected for testing Hepatitis C by ELISA test. Results were analyzed statistically. ResultHepatitis C seroprevalence of 1.8% was observed in present study. It was predominantly seen in age group 0–10yrs (7%). Significant risk factors for hepatitis C were multiple blood transfusions (38.5%). Thalassemia was a statistically significant comorbidity (1.5%) associated with hepatitis C. ConclusionHepatitis C was found more prevalent in 0–10year thalassemic age group. So, a continuous periodic screening of Hepatitis C especially in high-risk groups, like cases of Thalassemia and also in blood transfusion recipients is essential for an early diagnosis.An early diagnosis can improve clinical outcome in the patient, as appropriate therapy and management can be initiated at the earliest, thus, decreasing mortality and morbidity seen in hepatitis C cases.