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[Endemic hepatitis B in 2 marginal ethnic minorities. Comparative study]
M T Virto Ruiz1, M P Marín Alcalá, T Pascual Val
1Centro de Salud San Jorge, Pamplona, Navarra.
Medicina Clinica
|September 11, 1993
Summary
Hepatitis B (HB) is hyperendemic in the cigane population due to lifestyle factors, with significantly higher prevalence compared to gypsies and controls. This highlights the need for targeted public health interventions for high-risk groups.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Hepatitis B (HB) poses a significant health risk to marginalized populations.
- Previous studies suggest higher HB prevalence in certain ethnic groups.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the prevalence of Hepatitis B (HB) infection between two distinct marginal populations: ciganes and gypsies.
- To identify risk factors contributing to HB hyperendemia in these groups.
Main Methods:
- Serologic markers for Hepatitis B (HB) were analyzed in 245 ciganes and 127 gypsies.
- A control group of 103 individuals from the general neighborhood was included for comparison.
- Prevalence rates of HBsAg, HBeAg, and HB antibodies were determined.
Main Results:
- Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) was detected in 27% of ciganes, versus 0.9% in controls and 0% in gypsies (p < 0.001).
- Hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) was positive in 15% of ciganes (p < 0.001).
- HB antibodies were found in 72% of ciganes, compared to 12% of gypsies and 10% of controls (p < 0.001).
- Gypsies showed higher infection rates from adolescence (29%) than controls (13%) (p < 0.001).
- Evidence of high intrafamily horizontal and vertical transmission of HB was observed in ciganes.
Conclusions:
- The cigane population exhibits hyperendemic Hepatitis B (HB) infection.
- Disparities in lifestyle and living conditions between ciganes and gypsies likely contribute to the observed HB hyperendemia.
- Targeted public health strategies are crucial for controlling HB in high-risk marginalized communities.