Seroprevalence of HbsAg and anti-HCV in Ghurki Teaching Hospital, Lahore

Abstract

Objective: To find out the prevalence of hepatitis B and C in general population. Design: This is an analytical type of and non-interventional study. Setting: Data was collected from a two-day free screening camp for hepatitis B and C at Ghurki Trust Teaching Hospital, Lahore. Material and method: Normal people of any age and either sex were included in the study. Screening was performed for Hbs Ag and Anti HCV by Acu-check one step test (chromatographic immunoassay) in serum. Results: A total 1680 subjects were screened for both Hbs Ag and Anti HCV. Prevalence of Hbs Ag was 2.97% and Anti HCV was 11.96%. The mean age was 24.96 ± 14.67 years. Females were 55.2% and males were 44.8%. seroprevalence in females and males of Hb Ag was 1.2% and 1.78% and that of Anti HCV 8.6% and 3.33% respectively. These gender differences are statistically significant (p value <0.05). Hbs Ag was more prevalent in younger population (up to 10 years). The majority of Anti HCV positive was in 31 to 40 years of age. Conclusion: Seroprevalence of Hbs Ag and Anti HCV is high in general population. Prevalence of HCV is very high in younger age group while Hbs Ag is very high in children up to 10 years of age. Larger population based studies are needed to confirm the results.