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Sexual Transmission of HCV in Heterologous Monogamous Spouses

Mona M Rafik1, Yehia El Shazly2, Amal A Abbas1

  • 1Clinical and Chemical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo 11566, Egypt.

Journal of Sexually Transmitted Diseases
|August 29, 2015
PubMed

Insights

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection was found in 10% of healthy spouses of infected individuals. Older age was linked to increased risk, suggesting intraspousal transmission is a significant factor in HCV spread.

Area of Science:

  • Hepatology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection poses a significant global health challenge.
  • Understanding transmission routes is crucial for effective control strategies, especially in regions with a high prevalence like Egypt.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the prevalence of HCV infection among healthy, monogamous spouses of chronic HCV patients.
  • To identify potential risk factors associated with HCV transmission within marital relationships.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional study was conducted on fifty healthy, heterosexual, monogamous spouses of HCV-positive individuals.
  • Participants were screened for HCV infection (antibody and PCR) and HBV/HIV negativity.
  • Sociodemographic data were collected to analyze associations with risk factors.

Main Results:

  • Ten percent (5/50) of spouses showed evidence of HCV infection.
  • HCV infection was associated with older age categories.
  • No significant association was found with other sociodemographic parameters.

Conclusions:

  • Intraspousal transmission of HCV is a potential contributor to the spread of infection.
  • Sexual contact may play a role in HCV transmission within couples.
  • Targeted screening and awareness programs are needed, considering the large HCV reservoir in Egypt.

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