Seroprevalence And Molecular Detection Of Hepatitis B Virus (Hbv) And Hepatitis C Virus (Hcv) In Peshawar District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Abstract

The emergence of viral hepatitis as a significant global public health issue has led to a disproportionate impact on health, causing substantial morbidity and mortality across the world. In an effort to address this concern, a comprehensive study was conducted to investigate the epidemiology of hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV), among patients displaying acute hepatitis symptoms in Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), Pakistan. The study involved the examination of 180 serum samples collected from patients who exhibited elevated levels of serum aminotransferases. These samples were subjected to both serological and molecular assays to detect the presence of viral hepatitis infections. The results revealed a significant seroprevalence of HBV and HCV infections, indicating a considerable burden of these diseases in the region, with approximately 32.22% of the sampled population affected. Further investigation into the viral nucleic acids within the samples indicated that 13.88% and 18.33% of samples contained HBV and HCV nucleic acids, respectively. Notably, all detected HBV isolates were classified as genotype D, while hepatitis C virus RNA-positive samples exhibited clustering within genotypes 1a (38.3%) and 3a (61.7%). Gender-based differences were observed, with higher rates of infection among males. Specifically, 63.63% of males tested positive for anti-HCV, and 77.77% were positive for HBsAg. In contrast, 36.36% of females were anti-HCV positive, and 33.33% were positive for HBsAg.In light of these findings, the study underscores the importance of implementing a comprehensive program to control and manage viral hepatitis in Peshawar and the surrounding region. The documented prevalence of circulating viral hepatitis draws attention to the urgency of addressing this public health issue through targeted interventions. Such interventions could include vaccination campaigns, educational initiatives, improved infection control practices, and increased access to testing and diagnosis. By recognizing the burden of viral hepatitis and its associated risk factors, public health authorities can work towards reducing morbidity and mortality rates related to these infections in the local population.