Knowledge about hepatitis B and C among patients attending family medicine clinics in Karachi

Abstract

Knowledge about hepatitis B and C was assessed in a cross-sectional study of 300 adults aged 18 or older attending family medicine clinics at The Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi. Most knew that hepatitis B and C are viral diseases that primarily affect the liver, but knowledge about risk factors for disease transmission was poor. Approximately 70% knew the hepatitis B is vaccine preventable; 60% had the misconception the hepatitis C is also vaccine preventable. The majorrity incorrectly believed that people with hepatitis B or C should follow the diet'parhaiz'. Generally women knew more than men about the diseases. This study suggests the health education about these infections should be provided to the public. Family physicians can play an important role in educating people about the prevention of these diseases.