Evaluating the Effectiveness of Rapid Test for HBsAg and Anti HCV in Swabi, KPK

ABSTRACT Background: Both HBV and HCV are associated with chronicity causing irreversible damage which later may result in cirrhosis and Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Conducting sizeable epidemiological studies in order to obtain a detailed and precise data of HBV and HCV infection will enable us to be well equipped with proper awareness about the prevention both in terms of vaccines and treatment options. Objective: To highlight the importance of dire need of implementing public health measures against the increasing seroprevalence of HBV and HCV in Pakistan. Setting: This descriptive cross sectional study was conducted over a period of 17 months, starting from 7th Nov, 2022 to 31st March, 2024 at Microbiology Laboratory MTI- GKMC/BKMC, Swabi. Material and methods: A total of 459 blood samples were collected from suspected cases of HBV and HCV infection as they showed a positive result on performing the on spot screening for Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBs Ag) and Anti HCV through rapid immunochromatography (ICT). The samples which showed positive results through ICT were subjected to confirmation by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Demographic data was also recorded. Permission from IRB was duly seeked. Results: Out of a total of 459 (ICT positive) HBV and HCV samples received at Virology section, 117 were of HBV, whereas 342 were of HCV. Out of the total 117 ICT positive HBV cases 60 were males and 57 were females. On subjection to confirmation by PCR 36 males and 18 females were confirmed positive by PCR. Similarly, out of the total 342 ICT positive HCV samples, 145 were males, whereas 197 were females, which upon subjection to confirmation by PCR, showed 104 males and 86 females confirmed positive by PCR. Conclusion: The being reported burden of HBV and HCV, stresses upon the policy makers to prioritize steps for efficient and adequate therapeutic and preventive measures for the effective reduction in the burden of HBV and HCV in Pakistan. Key words: HBV, HCV, immunochromatography, PCR