Author/Authors :
Nwokedi, E. E. Bayero University - Departments of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Nigeria , Nwokedi, E. E. Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital - Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Nigeria , Ilyasu, Z. Bayero University - Departments of Community Medicine, Nigeria , Emokpae, M. A. Bayero University - Departments of Chemical Pathology, Nigeria , Dutse, A. I. Bayero University - Departments of Medicin, Nigeria , Taura, A. A. Bayero University - Departments of Psychiatry, Kano
Abstract :
Background: Chronic infection with hepatitis C is considered to be a causative factor in hepatocellular carcinoma. The prevalence of this virus in Kano is not known. Method: A total of one thousand and seven subjects were recruited for the study. They included 681 males and 326 females. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibody was tested using ELISA technique with reagent supplied by Anhet laboratory, Cortex, USA. Results: A total of sixty two subjects were positive out of one thousand and seven, with a period prevalence rate of 6.2% and confidence interval of 5.4 – 6.9%. Conclusion: Even though Nigeria does not lye within HCV endemic region, this study shows that the prevalence rate of 6.2% is quite significant. It is suggested that HCV antibody screening should be included in the screening tests carried out in blood banks and in patients with sexually transmitted diseases.
