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Psychiatric disorders and functioning in hepatitis B virus carriers.
Figen C Atesci1, Banu C Cetin, Nalan K Oguzhanoglu
1Faculty of Medicine, Psychiatry Department, Pamukkale University, Doktorlar Cad. Denizli, Turkey 20100. fatesci@yahoo.com
Psychosomatics
|March 19, 2005
Summary
Asymptomatic hepatitis B virus carriers experience more psychological distress, including higher rates of psychiatric disorders, depression, and anxiety, compared to healthy individuals. These findings highlight the need for emotional support for hepatitis B carriers.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Psychiatry
- Public Health
Background:
- Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection affects millions globally.
- The psychological impact on asymptomatic carriers is not fully understood.
- Understanding the mental health of HBV carriers is crucial for comprehensive care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the psychological state of asymptomatic hepatitis B virus carriers with healthy subjects.
- To identify the prevalence of psychiatric disorders and psychosocial functioning in HBV carriers.
- To explore factors associated with psychological distress in this population.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study comparing 43 asymptomatic HBV carriers and 43 healthy controls.
- Utilized self-report questionnaires for psychological assessment.
- Employed structured clinical interviews and the Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) scale for diagnosis and functioning evaluation.
Main Results:
- HBV carriers showed a significantly higher prevalence of psychiatric disorders (30.2% vs. 11.6%).
- Carriers reported elevated depression and anxiety scores.
- Lower Global Assessment of Functioning scores were observed in HBV carriers compared to controls.
Conclusions:
- Asymptomatic hepatitis B virus carriers are at increased risk for psychological distress and psychiatric disorders.
- Concerns regarding contamination and illness are linked to psychological disorder in carriers.
- There is a clear need for integrated emotional and psychological support services for individuals with asymptomatic hepatitis B.