Seroprevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection among blood donors: a hospital-based study

Transfus Apher Sci. 2001 Feb;24(1):29-35. doi: 10.1016/s0955-3886(00)00124-7.

Abstract

Insofar as chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in many individuals is asymptomatic, and as the prevalence of antibodies to hepatitis C virus (anti-HCV) among blood donors in Lebanon is scarce, this study addressed the prevalence of anti-HCV in 5,115 blood donors. Data obtained were compared to other world regions. Of the blood donors screened, 57 were initially tested positive or doubtful for anti-HCV Ab. Subsequent testing by two-third generation enzyme immunoassays confirmed that, of the 57 initially tested positive/doubtful, only 18 were positive for anti-HCV giving a prevalence rate of 0.4%. While there was no difference in HCV prevalence with respect to age or gender, a higher rate was seen in non-Lebanese compared to Lebanese subjects (3.4% vs 0.3%, P < 0.001). These results demonstrate a low prevalence of HCV infection among Lebanese blood donors, which was comparable to those established for western countries.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Blood Donors*
  • Female
  • Hepatitis C / epidemiology*
  • Hepatitis C Antibodies / blood
  • Humans
  • Immunoenzyme Techniques
  • Lebanon / epidemiology
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Seroepidemiologic Studies
  • Topography, Medical

Substances

  • Hepatitis C Antibodies