Descriptive Study of Hepatitis B, C and HIV Infections and Associated Factors among Adult Population in Kabul City, 2015

-Background: Viral infections are global public health problem. Shortage of information about Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) and HIV/AIDS prevalence in Afghanistan is very clear. This study aimed to describe the prevalence and risk factors associated with HBV, HCV and HIV infection among adult population of Kabul city. Methods and Materials: A province based cross-sectional survey among adult population (25-70 years) of Kabul city was conducted in November, 2015 using a WHO STEP wise tool. A total of 1174 adult citizens in Kabul city were included in the study. Demographic, socioeconomic and lifestyle factors were collected by face to face questionnaire. Blood samples were collected and rapid tests were used to find the prevalence of HBV, HCV, and HIV infections. Data management was done using Epi info v.7 and SPSS v.20. Results: The overall prevalence of HBV using HBsAg and Anti-HCV rapid tests were 3 % (35/1174) and 1.1% (13/1374) respectively. Only two individuals were positive for HIV infection out 100 samples under confirmatory test. Of total 1174 records females constituted almost half 599 (51%) with overall mean age of 38.6±12.2 years. Females were slightly more in all age groups. Approximately half of the respondents (49.6%) were illiterates while the proportion of illiteracy was more in all age groups. Two third of the study subjects were married (77.5%) and 60% of women were housewives. Risky behaviors such as tattooing, hospitalizations, history of jaundice, living with hepatitis patients and undergoing dental procedures were common among positive subjects. Conclusion: A prevalence rate of 3%, 1.1% for HBsAg and anti-HCV and two cases of HIV infection apparently represents a trigger point for action in Kabul city. Public awareness and health education regarding risk factors for viral hepatitis and encouragement for vaccination is recommended. National program for blood borne viral diseases are an axis for focus of government and donors.