Prevalence of Hepatitis B and C Infections in District Swabi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Abstract

The liver diseases like cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma are mainly caused by the Hepatitis B and hepatitis C viruses. The present study is designed to assess the frequencyand transmission of (HBV) and (HCV) among the local population of district Swabi. Apreliminary study was conducted from 1st January to 31st May 2016. The study revealed thatthe ratio of Hepatitis B and C in the local population was found 103 (34 %) and 199 (66 %)respectively. Out of 143 males, 37 (26 %) were infected by HBV while the remaining 106(74%) were infected by HCV. 66 (42%), out of 159 infected females were infected by HBVwhile the remaining 93 (58%) were infected by HCV. In the local population, the transfusion ofblood from an infected person and unhygienic practices during surgery and medical treatmentare the main causes of hepatitis. It is suggested to implement high care on the occasion ofsurgery, injection, and blood transfusion. Furthermore, awareness campaigns regarding bloodtransmission and health hazards of Hepatitis should be launched for the population