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Incidence of hepatitis B carriers in Calcutta, West Bengal
Insights
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) carrier rates are significantly higher in paid blood donors compared to voluntary donors. Malnutrition and socio-economic factors in paid donors may contribute to persistent HBV infection.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Hepatitis B virus (HBV) poses a significant public health challenge.
- Blood donor screening is crucial for preventing transfusion-transmitted infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) carrier state in paid versus voluntary blood donors.
- To explore the association between nutritional status, socio-economic factors, and HBV carrier state.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted on paid and voluntary blood donors in Calcutta.
- Assessment of nutritional status included serum protein, immunoglobulin, and cholesterol levels.
Main Results:
- The HBV carrier rate was substantially higher in paid donors (5.84%) than in voluntary donors (1.79%).
- Paid donors exhibited indicators of malnutrition and chronic infection.
- Socio-economic status was found to influence the persistence of HBV carrier state.
Conclusions:
- Paid blood donation is associated with a higher prevalence of HBV carriers.
- Nutritional deficiencies and socio-economic factors play a role in HBV persistence among blood donors.
Abstract:
A survey of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) carrier state of paid and voluntary blood donors in and around the city of Calcutta has been carried out. HBV carrier state is higher in paid donors (5.84%) than voluntary donors (1.79%). The nutritional status of paid donors as assessed by serum protein, immunoglobulin and cholesterol shows evidence of malnutrition and chronic infection. The socio-economic status of the prospective blood donors has an important bearing on the persistence of carrier state for HBV.