Hepatitis C antibodies in asymptomatic first-time blood donors in The Gambia: prevalence and risk factors.

Abstract

This study evaluates the seroprevalence and risk factors for hepatitis C (HCV) antibodies in asymptomatic first-time blood donors in The Gambia. The study population includes 460 blood donors (age range: 18-40 years [mean: 27.5]) who attended the Royal Victoria Teaching Hospital from July to December 2002. Antibodies to hepatitis C are determined using and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test system. The prevalence of hepatitis C found in this study was 1.1% (95% CI, 0.16-1.12). Previous history of sexually transmitted disease, married men in polygamous relationships, and hospital or clinic-based workers were determined to be at risk of acquiring hepatitis C. The study shows that seroprevalence of hepatitis C in The Gambia is low compared to other countries in the region.

• Authors: C I Mboto, A Davies-Russell, M Fielder, A P Jewell
• Journal: British journal of biomedical science (Br J Biomed Sci) Vol. 62 Issue 2 Pg. 89-91 ( 2005) ISSN: 0967-4845 [Print] Switzerland
• PMID: 15997884 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Antibodies, Viral

Topics

• Adolescent
• Adult
• Antibodies, Viral (analysis)
• Blood Donors
• Cross-Sectional Studies
• Female
• Gambia (epidemiology)
• Hepatitis C (epidemiology)
• Humans
• Male
• Prevalence
• Risk Factors