Prevalence of hepatitis C virus in an elderly population in rural areas of Sharkia governorate, Egypt

ABSTRACT

Background and aim: Egypt has the highest prevalence of hepatitis C virus [HCV] infection in the world. At an older age, infected patients usually have lower rates of HCV clearance as well as higher rates of cirrhosis. The aim of this work was to study the actual prevalence, characteristics, and risk factors of HCV infection in elderly Egyptian individuals [>60 years] living in rural areas of Sharkia governorate and to assess the role of associated diseases [e.g. diabetes mellitus and hypertension] that are common in this age group