Risk Factors in the Transmission of Hepatitis B & C: A Study of 100 Cases of Chronic Liver Disease

Abstract

Background: Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C positive cases have touched mammoth propitious. One third of
world's population has been infected with hepatitis B and about 3% of population has been infected with
hepatitis B and about 3% of population is infected with hepatitis C.
This descriptive study was carried out to analyze the risk of transmission of hepatitis B & C in Pakistan
population and compare it with national and international data.
Methods: Total numbers of 100 patients were included. There patients had established liver disease and
infectively was proven by ELIZA.
Results: Total numbers included in this study was 100. Out of them 20% had hepatic B and 80% had
hepatitis C. 60% were male and 40% were females. 50% of hepatitis B had undergone body piercing, 30%
had undergone circumcised, 25% had beared shaved by barbers. Similarly 63% of hepatitis C had been
circumcised, 42.5% gave a history of street shaves and 24% had their ears pierced. Vertical transmission
was not noted. Blood borne infection was not found only in 9.3% of hepatitis C.
Conclusion: World wide vertical transmission is considered the usual mode of transmission for hepatitis
B and blood transfusion for hepatitis C. Local studies previously showed blood transfusion, use of
indisposed syringes and injection drug use as the main risk factor for transmission of hepatitis C in our
population. Ignorance in general and especially about health matters in crux of the problem. It is need of
the hour to take heroic measure to limit spread of hepatitis B & C.