Abstract

Background: Based on the first hepatitis serosurvey conducted in 2008, Pakistan was identified as the country with the second highest hepatitis C disease burden in the world. Aim: To compare the current hepatitis seroprevalence with the 2008 figures and offer recommendations for elimination in the country. Methods: Using a stratified two-stage sample design, we collected blood samples from individuals living in the 29 districts of Sindh Province, Pakistan. The samples were tested at the hepatitis control programme laboratory using the national testing guidelines and the data were analysed using Epi Info and SPSS version 19.0. Results: Of the 6672 persons tested, 70 (1.0%) (42 male, 28 female) were hepatitis positive. Hepatitis prevalence increased with age. Family history of chronic liver disease (odds ratio 2.5) and shaving at the barber’s shop (odds ratio 2.2) were the major risk factors. Only 2 people (a husband and wife) were reactive to all the 3 HIV rapid diagnostic tests, giving an overall HIV prevalence of 0.02%. Conclusion: There is a need for mass testing and treatment in Pakistan through a multisectoral, collaborative approach, to halt the spread of hepatitis and prevent disease progression to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.

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