ABSTRACT
Objective: To assess and compare the prevalence of hepatitis B and C in normal population. Design: This is a descriptive, non-interventional study. Setting: Data was collected from a free screening camp for hepatitis B and C at Shalamar Hospital, Lahore
Subjects and Methods: Normal people of any age and either sex were included in the study. Screening was performed for HBs Ag and Anti HCV by Acu-Check one step test [Chromatographic immunoassay] in serum
Results: A total 757 subjects were screened. Prevalence of HBs Ag was 2.6% and Anti HCV 13.5%. The mean age was 24.96+ 14.67 years. Females were 55.2% and males were 44.8%. Seroprevalence in females and males of Hbs Ag was 2.2% and 3.2% and of Anti HCV 15.6% and 10.9% respectively. HBs Ag was more prevalent in younger population [up to 10 years]. The majority of Anti HCV positive subjects were in 31-50 years age group
Conclusion: Seroprevalence of HBs Ag and HCV is high in general population. Prevalence of HCV is very high in this region and HBV is very high in children up to 10 years of age. Larger population based studies are needed to confirm the results