Seroprevalence of HBsAg and anti-HCV Antibodies among Blood Donors in Al-Anbar Governorate
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Background: Hepatitis B and C still represent a significant global health problem that
might involve the late sequel of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. However,
blood safety remains an issue of major concern in transfusion medicine in Iraq where
national blood transfusion services are inadequate. Blood transfusion is a life-saving
measure in various medical and surgical emergencies. Transfusion medicine, apart from
being important for the medical treatment of each patient, also has a great public health
importance.
Objective: To determine the current prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C
virus (HCV) among healthy blood donors in regional blood transfusion services of Al-
Anbar province (a west region of Iraq) in relation to their age, sex and residence during
2009–2012.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 27117 healthy blood donors
attended to different blood banks in various districts in Al-Anbar governorate, over a
period extended from 2009 -2012. Blood samples were collected and the sera were
separated and tested for detection of serological markers of HBsAg and anti-HCV
antibodies using one step third generation immuno-chromatographic device test as a
screening test and then confirmed by using standard enzyme-linked immunosorbent
assay (ELISA) technique. Statistical analysis was done using the software 'SPSS 11.5'
and 'Winpepi ver. 3.8'
Results: The prevalence of HBsAg and anti-HCV antibodies was 1.6% and 0.46%,
respectively. The prevalence of hepatitis B and C was more common among female
donors and also more prevalent among donors with age group (21-30 year). The
prevalence of hepatitis B and C was higher among blood donors from Ana district
residence than those from other residences within Al-Anbar province.
Conclusion: Hepatitis B and C still constitute a public health problem in Al-Anbar
governorate when compared with other studies conducted in other Iraqi governorates.
Formulation of safe blood transfusion policy and implementation of standard screening
procedures at all levels are strongly recommended. Expansion of vaccination to the
community is important.
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