Hepatitis B and C Prevalence in Donated Blood: Jazan, Saudi Arabia
Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: Prevalence of Hepatitis B and C in Donated Blood from the Jazan Region of Saudi Arabia
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Saleh Mohammed Abdullah
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:
(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)
Full text available for: Prevalence of Hepatitis B and C in Donated Blood from the Jazan Region of Saudi Arabia
Year: 2013
Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Blood donation plays a vital role in medical care, and ensuring the safety of the blood supply is essential. Infections caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and the hepatitis C virus (HCV) represent significant public health challenges globally. This study focuses on the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia, aiming to assess the prevalence of HBV and HCV among blood donors over a six-year period, from 2004 to 2009. The analysis utilizes serological screening of blood units from both volunteer and replacement native Saudi donors, highlighting the importance of monitoring viral markers to ensure the safety of blood transfusions.
Declining Prevalence of HBV and HCV
One significant finding from the study is the notable decline in HBV prevalence among blood donors in Jazan. The prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) decreased from 5.6% in 2004 to 2.3% in 2009, indicating an overall trend towards improved HBV infection rates. Additionally, the prevalence of anti-HCV was observed to be much lower at 0.41%. Factors contributing to these declines likely include the introduction of the HBV vaccination program in 1989 and increased awareness regarding viral hepatitis among the population. The results also pointed out that older age groups demonstrated higher prevalence rates of HBV and anti-HCV, suggesting that age-related exposure and health literacy continue to play crucial roles in infection rates.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this study highlights a significant decrease in the prevalence of HBV and HCV among blood donors in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia from 2004 to 2009. The reduction may be attributed to enhanced vaccination efforts and greater awareness about hepatitis infections, facilitating safer blood donation practices. Continued monitoring and evaluation are necessary to maintain blood safety and to further reduce the incidence of transfusion-transmitted infections, particularly as the demographic profile of blood donors evolves over time.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What viruses are primarily monitored in blood donors in Saudi Arabia?
The study primarily monitors the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) among blood donors as they pose significant public health risks related to transfusion-transmitted infections.
What was the overall prevalence of HBsAg in the study?
The study found that the overall prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) among blood units was 3.8%, with significant declines observed over the years, particularly from 2004 to 2009.
How did age affect the prevalence of HBV and HCV infections?
The prevalence of HBV and HCV infections significantly increased with age, with the highest rates found in donors over 46 years old, where HBsAg prevalence reached 7.7%.
What methods were used to screen blood donations for viruses?
The blood donations were screened serologically for HBV and HCV using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) tests. Markers such as HBsAg, anti-HBc, and anti-HCV were specifically analyzed.
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