PREVALENCE OF HEPATITIS B AND C AMONG THE EMPLOYEES OF SARHAD UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Abstract

Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infections pose significant public health challenges worldwide, particularly in Asia. HBV is a double-stranded DNA virus with a high prevalence in Asia, primarily transmitted through blood and body fluids. High-risk groups include individuals undergoing blood transfusions, dialysis, intravenous drug users, and healthcare workers. This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the prevalence of HBV and HCV among employees of Sarhad University of Science and Information Technology, Peshawar. A total of 45 employees, aged 25 years and above, were selected using random sampling. Participants provided informed consent and completed questionnaires capturing demographic and medical history. Venous blood samples were collected, labeled, and transported to the laboratory for testing using the ICT method. Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and hepatitis C antibody (anti-HCV) were detected using specific ICT kits. The prevalence rates for HBV and HCV were calculated, and data were analyzed using statistical software. The study found a prevalence rate of 4.44% for HBV and 2.22% for HCV among the sample population, indicating the presence of these infections among university employees.

Keywords : Prevalence, Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), University Employees