Risk factor analysis of hepatitis C virus infection among Chinese blood donors in Hong Kong

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection can result in serious hepatic complications and hence potentially significant burden to the society. Despite advances in technology, transfusion-transmitted HCV infection still exists. To further minimise the risk, a review on the epidemiology of HCV infection among Chinese blood donors in Hong Kong was conducted.

All donations associated with HCV infection confirmed by positive serologic diagnosis with or without molecular confirmation during the period from 2003 to 2010 were studied. Demographic data were retrieved and risk factors were identified.

HCV infection was more commonly seen in first time donors and donors with blood transfusion history before the availability of HCV testing, whereas its association with intravenous drug use was noted to be decreasing. Interestingly, half of the HCV positive donors in 2008-2010 were young donors aged below 21, which was also the group with the highest rate of no known source of infection.

A subgroup of younger age donors was found to have no known risk factor. To develop better screening strategy, it is recommended that a more detailed analysis of this group of donors is required.