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An epidemiological study of hepatitis B virus amongst blood donors
Insights
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection affects 15.59% of professional blood donors, with higher prevalence linked to donation frequency and duration. This highlights the need for interventions to prevent viral hepatitis B transmission.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Transfusion Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Professional blood donors are a critical source of blood supply.
- Understanding the health status and infection prevalence within this group is vital for blood safety.
- Hepatitis B virus (HBV) poses a significant risk in transfusion settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the socio-economic profile and health status of professional blood donors.
- To determine the prevalence of Hepatitis B surface Antigen (HBsAg) in this population.
- To identify risk factors associated with HBsAg positivity.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 186 professional blood donors.
- Collection of detailed socio-economic data.
- Serological testing for HBsAg and assessment of hemoglobin levels.
Main Results:
- The majority of donors (63.4%) were aged 30-40 years, with an average age of 34.
- A high percentage (83.3%) were illiterate and from lower socio-economic strata.
- The prevalence of HBsAg was 15.59%, significantly associated with donation length and frequency (P < .05).
- Most donors exhibited anemia with an average hemoglobin of 8.2 gm%.
Conclusions:
- Professional blood donors in this cohort exhibit a notable prevalence of HBsAg.
- Socio-economic factors and donation practices are associated with increased risk.
- Implementing targeted preventive measures for viral hepatitis B is crucial.
Abstract:
The study was carried out on 186 professional blood donors. A detailed-socio economic profile of these donors was taken and the serum was tested for HBs. Ag. Majority (63.4 per cent) of the donors were in the age bracket of 30-40 years with an average age of 34 years. About 83.3 per cent were illiterate and belonged to the lowest rung of the socio economic scale. The average length of blood donation was observed to be 4 years with blood letting frequency of 4.4 within a stipulated period of three months. Most of them were anaemic with an average haemoglobin level of 8.2 gm per cent. The HBs Ag prevalence was observed to be 15.59 per cent. HBs Ag positivity was found to be significantly associated with the length and the frequency of blood donation (P less than .05). Remedial measures for prevention of viral hepatitis-B through professional blood donors was emphasized.