Author/Authors :
Elzouki, A.N. Hamad General Hospital - Department of Medicine, Qatar , Smeo, M. N. University of Tripoli - Department of Community Medicine, Libya , Sammud, M. University of Tripoli - Department of Community Medicine, Libya , Elahmer, O. University of Tripoli - Faculty of Medicine - Department of Microbiology, Libya , Daw, M. University of Tripoli - Faculty of Medicine - Department of Microbiology, Libya , Furarah, A. University of Tripoli - Faculty of Medicine - Department of Microbiology, Libya , Abudher, A. National Center for Disease Control, Libya , Mohamed, M.K. Ain Shams University - Department of Community, Egypt
Abstract :
A high prevalence of hepatitis B (HBV) and C virus (HCV) infections has been reported among specific patient groups in Libya; a survey was thus designed to determine the extent of the problem at the national level. A multistage sampling design covering all administrative areas of Libya was applied, covering 65 000 individuals of all age groups. All subjects gave a blood sample and completed a questionnaire on demographic and risk behaviour data. The prevalence of HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) and anti-HCV were 2.2% and 1.3% respectively. The prevalence of anti-HCV increased with age, rising gradually after age 30 years, in contrast to a stable prevalence of HBsAg in all age groups 10+ years. Age-adjusted risk factors for HCV infection were previous hospitalization, surgical operations, previous blood transfusions and intravenous drug use; for HBV infection only family exposure or contact with HBV case were identified.
