Seroprevalence of hepatitis B and C viruses, HIV and syphilis infections among engaged couples

ABSTRACT

To evaluate seroprevalences of hepatitis B and C viruses, human immunodeficiency virus [HIV], and syphilis infections among engaged couples. This is a cross-sectional study of all engaged couples enrolled at 20 Health Centers and one Maternity Center of Sivas Health Directorate between May and September 2005 in Sivas, a central Anatolian city, in Turkey. Seroprevalances of hepatitis B [HB] surface antigen [HBsAg], hepatitis B surface antibody [anti-HBs], anti-hepatitis C virus [HCV], anti-human immunodeficiency virus [anti-HIV], and syphilis was assessed. Serum samples of 1,332 participants of 666 couples were investigated. Age range of subjects was 15-74, and most [38.4%] were between 25-29 years. Out of 1,332 individuals, 22 [1.7%] were HBsAg positive, 18 [1.4%] were anti-HBs positive, one [0.1%] was anti-HCV positive, one [0.1%] was HIV positive, and one [0.1%] was syphilis positive. There was no statistical differences between their seroprevalence positivities regarding gender and age groups [p>0.05]. In our country, couples should obtain a marriage certificate that includes a health report that contains the tests mentioned above. We think that this is a very good screening model for important infections. In couples all around the world, screening of these infections needs to be performed before marriage to be aware of the risks