Seroprevalence of Hepatitis B and C among Blood Donors in Local Blood Bank

Abstract

Viral hepatitis remains a critical global health challenge, particularly in developing nations. This study was conducted to determine the seroprevalence of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infections among blood donors at Al-Azadi Teaching Hospital in Kirkuk City. It also aimed to identify associated risk factors, evaluate biochemical liver profiles, and assess public awareness regarding these infections.

A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out over a two-month period from February 1st to March 31st, 2026. A total of 100 blood donors were enrolled in the study. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering socio-demographics, donation history, and risk factors. Laboratory analysis included screening for HBsAg and Anti-HCV using ELISA, as well as measuring Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) and Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) levels.

The findings revealed an HBsAg positivity rate of 8% and an Anti-HCV positivity rate of 8%. Notably, a high rate of HBV/HCV co-infection (4%) was observed, representing 50% of the total HBsAg-positive cases, showing a significant statistical association ($p < 0.001$). Biochemical analysis showed significantly higher mean levels of ALT ($42.5 \pm 12.3$ U/L) and AST ($38.9 \pm 10.5$ U/L) in seropositive donors compared to seronegative individuals. Furthermore, a significant correlation was found between poor knowledge of viral transmission and infection status ($p = 0.048$).

The seroprevalence of HBV and HCV among blood donors in Kirkuk is significantly high compared to other Iraqi regions. The high co-infection rate suggests shared transmission routes. There is a critical gap in public awareness and vaccination, as 54% of participants were unvaccinated. The study recommends implementing more sensitive screening tools like Nucleic Acid Testing (NAT), strengthening national vaccination programs, and launching intensive public health awareness campaigns