HEPATITIS B AND C: PREVALENCE AND EVALUATION OF ITS ASSOCIATED RISK FACTORS IN GENERAL POPULATION OF OKARA DISTRICT

Abstract

Viral Hepatitis B and C are common blood –borne infections and lead to chronic liver diseases and causes economic burden on country. Blood samples (N=13295) were collected from individuals who attending public and private sector labs and subjected for Hepatitis B surface antigen and anti- HCV. A structured questionnaire was also filled to assess the risk factors for disease transmission. An overall prevalence of HBV 2.5% and HCV 14.5% was observed. The prevalence of HBV and HCV was higher in Males, 3.6%, 16.8% respectively than Females (2% for HBV; 13.5% for HCV). Results of Bivariate analysis showed that age group >70 years was more susceptible for HBV (4.6%) and for HCV (29.7%) 51 to 60 years age group Multivariate analysis showed that blood transfusion (5.3%, 43.3 %), dental extraction (3.4%, 22.5%), ear and nose piercing (3.9%, 17.8%) were significantly associated with HBV and HCV respectively. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study conducted in Okara district and the results indicate that there is a dire need to educate the population regarding disease and to initiate effective control strategies.