Hepatitis B surface antigen in the Iraqi population

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Immunology
• Public Health

Background:

• Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a significant global health concern.
• Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) is a key marker for HBV infection.
• Understanding carrier rates and associated factors is crucial for public health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the carrier rate of HBsAg in the Arab and Kurd populations of Iraq.
• To investigate the incidence of HBsAg antigenaemia in specific high-risk groups.
• To analyze immunoglobulin class levels in HBsAg carriers versus controls.

Main Methods:

• Counter immunoelectrophoresis (CIEP) was employed to detect HBsAg.
• HBsAg carrier rates were compared between Arab and Kurd populations.
• Incidence was assessed in laboratory workers, renal dialysis staff and patients, nursing and blood bank staff, and patients with pulmonary tuberculosis and diabetes mellitus.
• Immunoglobulin G (IgG) and Immunoglobulin M (IgM) levels were studied.

Main Results:

• The HBsAg carrier rate was 2.8% in the Arab population and 5.5% in the Kurd population.
• Data on antigenaemia incidence in various occupational and patient groups are presented.
• Elevated IgG and IgM levels were more prevalent in HBsAg carriers than in HBsAg-negative controls.

Conclusions:

• Significant differences in HBsAg carrier rates exist between Arab and Kurd populations in Iraq.
• Certain occupational groups and patient cohorts exhibit higher risks for antigenaemia.
• Altered immunoglobulin profiles, specifically raised IgG and IgM, are associated with HBsAg carriage.