Frequency of risk factors for hepatitis-B surface antigen positive patients in a hospital setting

ABSTRACT

Identification and relative significance of various risk factors for hepatitis-B infection. This prospective study was carried out in District Head Quarter Hospital Mastung, Periphery of Balochistan, from May 2004 to September 2005. Hundred patients were included in the study. They were screened for hepatitis-B surface antigen. A proforma along with its questionnaire was filled in for every patient who was found to be HBsAg Positive and at the end we came to conclusion regarding the modes of transmission of hepatitis-B. In these patients 78 were male and 22 were female, ranging from 14 to 70 years of age group. The pattern of various risk factors for hepatitis-B surface antigen was a follows. Repeated use of un-sterilized razors and blades 62%, repeated use of disposable syringes 60%, blood transfusion 11%, sexual transmission 18%, Hemodialysis 5%, tattooing 3%, surgical procedures 2%, accidental needle prick 2%. We concluded that there are some additional risk factors for transmission of hepatitis-B in this part of World. These include un-sterilized syringes and surgical instruments used by unskilled health workers and quacks in periphery, repeated use of un-sterilized razors and blades and Tattooing with contaminated needles