Epidemiology of Viral Hepatitis and Liver Diseases in Mongolia

Abstract

Mongolia which is located in Northern Asia between Russia and China is endowed with one of lowest population density in the world. Acute hepatitis due all types of hepatitis virus has been reported in Mongolia. Also, dual and triple hepatitis viruses, HBV, HDV and HCV are highly prevalent among patients with chronic liver disease living in Mongolia. Due to these facts, liver cancer is the leading cause of cancer mortality in Mongolia. The national immunization program including vaccination against hepatitis B was started in 1991 and screening of blood donations for HBsAg and anti-HCV was introduced in 1993 and 1997 respectively. The incidence of hepatitis viruses showing a downhill course in some parts of Mongolia, but comprehensive efforts are needed to control hepatitis viruses and containment of hepatitis related liver diseases and liver cancer in Mongolia