Screening for hepatitis b and c viral infections among pregnant women attending the Bolan Medical Complex Hospital and Sandeman Provincial Civil Hospital Quetta, Pakistan.

Abstract

Infectious diseases caused by hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) are a worldwide burden to health, especially in developing countries. Pakistan has one of the highest levels of HBV and HCV infection, causing a severe health problem with significant challenges and priorities. To prevent vertical transmission of infection, regular screening of pregnant women for HBV and HCV is vital. Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of HBV and HCV virus in pregnant women having prenatal care. Study Design: Cross-Sectional study. Setting: Bolan Medical Complex Hospital and Sandeman Provincial Civil Hospital Quetta. Period: August 2017 to July 2018. Material & Methods: Blood serum samples were screened for HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) and for anti-HCV using immunochromatography methods. Results: A total of 12,209 pregnant women were tested over a period of one year (August 2017 to July 2018). The overall HBV infections frequency was 1.3% (95% CI 1.1-1.4%) and for HCV infections it was 0.6% (95% CI 0.6-0.7%). Whilst there was only small month-wise variation in the occurrence of HBV and HCV infections, HBV prevalence was highest in May (1.7%) and HCV prevalence was highest in August and December (0.8%). Conclusions: Screening of all pregnant women for HBV and HCV is essential for reducing and eliminating vertical transmission of infection. Risk factors for infection need to be avoided and managed properly.