Prevalence and epidemiology of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in Rafsanjan

Background and Aims: Many individuals with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection are asymptomatic, population-based serologic studies are needed to estimate the prevalence of infection which will help to take necessary procedures for prevention and control the disease. This study was conducted to find out the prevalence, of HCV infection among patients referring to the hospital care in Rafsanjan, Iran. Materials and Methods: A total of 940 blood samples (430 males and 510 females) were received and screened for hepatitis C infection during December 2015 to December 2016. After separation of serum from blood samples in local laboratory, all samples were tested for HCV Ag by ELISA tests. Liver enzymes [Alkalin Phosphatase (ALP), Alanine aminotrans¬ferase (ALT) and Aspartate aminotransferase (AST)] were determined using biochemical procedures. Results: Amongst 940 collected samples, 18 (1.91%) were positive for HCV Antibody. Among the positive ones, HCV hepatitis was more prevalent in male patients than the females. The prevalence rate of HCV in male was 3.72% and 0.39% for female. Results related to age showed that higher rate of infection in 20-29 years old (%26.59), and the lowest was found in above 80 years old group (0.31%). Of the three enzymes, only ALP was significantly higher than the control group (P=0.003). Conclusions: The prevalence of HCV in Rafsanjan was at an increasing rate. Findings from the current study will be helpful for better management and control of viral hepatitis C infection.