The Frequency of Hepatitis B and C Among Volunteer Blood Donors in Balochistan

Background and Aims: In this cross-sectional study, the frequency of hepatitis B and C among volunteer blood donors in blood banks of Sandeman Provincial & Lady Duffren Hospitals, Quetta, Pakistan was estimated.
Methods: 1474 blood donors were selected by convenient sampling. After obtaining informed consent, brief history and examination were done. They were tested for HBsAg and anti-HCV antibodies in laboratory. The collected data analyzed by SPSS 12.0 and results shown in frequencies and percentages.
Results: Out of 1474 blood donors, 1284 (87.1%) were males and 190 (12.9%) were females. The mean age was 25 (range: 16-49) years. 71 (4.8%) were positive for HBsAg (63 males & 8 females), 26 (1.8%) for anti-HCV (21 males & 5 females) and 4 (0.27%) were positive for both (3 males & 1 female). Most of them belonged to ages 21-40 years.
Conclusions: The frequency of hepatitis B is same as that of other part of the country contrary to the belief that Balochistan is a high prevalent region for hepatitis B as compare to the rest of the country, while the frequency of hepatitis C is less than expected. Health education and vaccination for hepatitis B should be encouraged and more vigilant efforts should be done.