Prevalence of hepatitis B and hepatitis C in blood donors at Semnan province from 2008 to 2011

Introduction: Viral hepatitis is one of the major problems for health of the communities. Despite remarkable advances in diagnosis, screening and controlling methods of these diseases, still the virus transmit by blood products is one of the important challenges in blood transfusion centers. The purpose of this study was determination of prevalence of the hepatitis B and hepatitis C in blood donors at Semnan province. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the data of questioners and lab analysis results of the blood donors who referred to Semnan (Iran) Blood Transfusion Organization from 2008 until the middle of 2011 were surveyed. Demographic characteristics and prevalence of hepatitis B and hepatitis C in blood donors were studied during these years. Results: A total of 124704 blood donors were surveyed. From 329 persons who were suffering from hepatitis, 297 cases were positive for HBV and 32 cases for HCV. The prevalence of HBV and HCV contamination among the donors were 0.24% and 0.026%, respectively. The prevalence of HBsAg and HCVAb were higher among the first-time, male and married donors. Conclusion: The prevalence of hepatitis infection in Semnan province is lower than of many other parts of the world and Iran that is very promising. Furthermore, due to the very low prevalence viral infection in regular blood donors, it seems that for approach to a safe blood supply, using of the regular donors has priority.