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

A K Khuwaja1, R Qureshi, Z Fatmi

  • 1Department of Community Health Sciences, The Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan.

Eastern Mediterranean Health Journal = La Revue De Sante De La Mediterranee Orientale = Al-Majallah Al-Sihhiyah Li-Sharq Al-Mutawassit
|December 1, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Public knowledge of hepatitis B and C transmission risks is poor, despite awareness of them being viral liver diseases. Health education is crucial for prevention, with family physicians playing a key role.

Area of Science:

  • Hepatology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Hepatitis B and C are significant viral liver diseases.
  • Understanding public knowledge is key to effective prevention strategies.
  • Gaps in knowledge can hinder disease control efforts.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess public knowledge of hepatitis B and C.
  • To identify misconceptions regarding transmission and prevention.
  • To inform targeted health education initiatives.

Main Methods:

  • Cross-sectional study conducted at family medicine clinics.
  • Involved 300 adult participants aged 18 years and older.
  • Assessed knowledge on disease nature, transmission, prevention, and management.

Main Results:

  • Most participants recognized hepatitis B and C as viral liver diseases.
  • Poor knowledge regarding risk factors for disease transmission was observed.
  • A significant misconception existed about hepatitis C being vaccine-preventable.
  • Majority incorrectly believed in dietary restrictions ('parhaiz') for hepatitis patients.
  • Women generally demonstrated higher knowledge levels than men.

Conclusions:

  • Public health education on hepatitis B and C is essential.
  • Addressing specific misconceptions, like hepatitis C vaccine availability and dietary practices, is critical.
  • Family physicians are vital in disseminating accurate information and promoting prevention.

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