Epidemiology of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) Infection and its Prevalence in Rafsanjan

Background and Aims: Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is one of the most important health problems worldwide. Currently, Iran is located in the intermediate HBV zone,This study was conducted to find out the prevalence of HBV infection among patients referring the hospital care in Rafsanjan, Iran. Materials and Methods: A total of 2030 blood samples (471 from males and 1559 from females) were received and screened for hepatitis B infection during December 2015 to December 2016. After separation of serum from blood samples in local laboratory, All samples were tested for HBSAg by ELISA tests and Liver enzymes [Alkalin Phosphatase (ALK), Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and Aspartate aminotransferase (AST)] were determined using biochemical proceduies. Results: Among 2030 collected samples, 26 persons (1.28%) were positive for HBS Ag. Among the positive ones HBSAg hepatitis was more prevalent, in female patients, than the males. 16 females and 10 males were positive for HBV hepatitis. The prevalence rate of HBS in males was 2.12% and 1.02% for female. There was no significant difference between males and females in terms of prevalence of hepatitis (P=0.856). Results related to age showed that higher rate of infection in 20-29 years old (%53.24) and the lowest was in 0-9 years old groups (1.08%). Of the three enzymes ALP, AST and ALT, only ALT was significantly higher than the control group (P=0.018). Conclusions: In conclusion, the prevalence of HBS in Rafsanjan was at an increasing rate. Findings from the current study will be helpful for the better management and control of viral hepatitis B infection.