HEPATITIS PREVALENCE IN POPULATION OF KALLAR KAHAR, PUNJAB, PAKISTAN: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) are major global health threats, particularly in endemic countries such as Pakistan. These viruses are responsible for chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma, placing a significant burden on the healthcare system. Despite the availability of effective antiviral therapies and preventive strategies, the prevalence of HBV and HCV remains high. Understanding the local epidemiology, risk factors, and distribution patterns is essential to strengthen public health interventions and align with elimination targets. Objective: The study aimed to determine the frequency of HBV and HCV infections in the local population of Kallar Kahar, identify demographic trends, assess associated risk factors, and provide evidence-based recommendations for prevention and control. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over six months, from January 2021 to July 2021, at the Hepatitis Clinic of THQ Hospital, Kallar Kahar. A total of 2000 individuals were recruited through randomized sampling. Inclusion criteria required availability of CNIC/Form-B, absence of prior hepatitis screening or treatment, and verbal informed consent. Screening was performed using an immunochromatographic test for anti-HCV and an ELISA kit for HBsAg. All positive samples were further confirmed through polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Data on demographics, vaccination status, and potential risk exposures were collected using structured interviews. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS software. Results: Out of 2000 participants, 68% (n=1360) were females and 31% (n=640) were males, while 71.9% (n=1437) fell in the 15–49 years age group. Screening identified 3.4% (n=67) as positive and 96.7% (n=1933) as negative. Among the 67 positives, PCR confirmed 26.9% (n=18) as HCV positive and 20.9% (n=14) as HBV positive, while 7.5% (n=5) samples were rejected. Conclusion: The study confirms that HBV and HCV infections are endemic in Pakistan, with a higher prevalence of HCV compared to HBV in this population. These findings highlight the urgent need for improved awareness, routine screening, vaccination programs, and stricter infection control practices. Community engagement and policy-level interventions are essential to reduce the burden and prevent further transmission.