Abstract:

AIMTo determine the sero-prevalence rate and associated risk factors of hepatitis B and C virus infections in İzmir, Turkey.METHODSIn this community-based cross-sectional study, 2737 healthy individuals over 14 years of age were included using a random sampling method. Serum samples were collected to study the presence of HBsAg, Anti-HBs, Anti-HBc total and Anti-HCV using the ELISA method. Data dealing with the socio-demographic characteristics and the risk factors for the infections was collected with a questionnaire.RESULTSHBsAg positivity was found in 2.8%. Anti-HBs positivity and Anti-HBc total seropositivity were determined in 32.4% and 31.4%, respectively. Anti-HCV positivity was found in 0.3%. Illiteracy, previous hepatitis history, and family history of hepatitis were risk factors for HBsAg seropositivity in Izmir. However, the risk factors did not affect the seropositivity rate of HCV.CONCLUSIONİzmir has a lower intermediate endemicity for HBV infection. Socioeconomic and environmental risk factors are important for HBV infection.

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