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Ukraine has conducted a nationwide assessment of viral hepatitis B, C, and D seromarkers, a crucial step toward achieving the World Health Organization’s goal of eliminating viral hepatitis. While data on hepatitis B and C among specific populations exist, this marks the first comprehensive study of its kind in the general Ukrainian population.
The study,conducted in 2021,analyzed blood samples from a cross-sectional household-based SARS-CoV-2 serosurvey.Researchers tested for antibodies against hepatitis C virus (HCV),total antibodies against hepatitis B virus (HBV) core antigen (HBc),hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg),and hepatitis D virus (HDV) antibodies. weighted proportions were calculated to account for demographic differences, including sex, age, and urbanization levels.
Findings revealed a weighted prevalence of 3.3% for anti-HCV antibodies, 11.6% for anti-HBc antibodies, and 0.9% for HBsAg. Among individuals testing positive for HBsAg,7.5% also showed antibodies against hepatitis D virus (HDV). The study also identified higher prevalence rates of HBV and HCV seromarkers in men and in the southern regions of Ukraine.
The results underscore the notable lifetime exposure to HBV and HCV across Ukraine. Experts emphasize the continued need for robust prevention strategies, including newborn HBV vaccination and targeted vaccination for at-risk groups. Regular screening for hepatitis B and C, prompt treatment, and enhanced public awareness campaigns are also vital to curb ongoing transmission and move closer to elimination goals.
Evergreen Insights
Viral hepatitis, especially hepatitis B and C, represents a significant global public health challenge. The World Health Organization (WHO) has set ambitious targets for the elimination of viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030. This involves reducing new viral hepatitis infections by 90% and viral hepatitis-related deaths by 65%.
Hepatitis B is primarily transmitted through blood and other body fluids, often from mother to child during birth or through sexual contact. Chronic hepatitis B infection can lead to serious liver diseases, including cirrhosis and liver cancer. Fortunately, an effective vaccine is available, and antiviral treatments can manage the infection.
Hepatitis C is also transmitted through blood, commonly via shared needles or syringes. While there is no vaccine for hepatitis C, highly effective direct-acting antiviral (DAA) medications can cure most infections. Early detection and treatment are key to preventing long-term liver damage.
Hepatitis D is a unique virus that only infects individuals who are already infected with hepatitis B. It can lead to more severe liver disease than hepatitis B alone. Prevention of hepatitis B through vaccination also prevents hepatitis D infection.
Nationwide serosurveys, like the one conducted in Ukraine, are essential for understanding the true burden of viral hepatitis in a population. This data informs public health policy, resource allocation, and the progress of targeted prevention and treatment programs. Historical trends in Ukraine, as in many countries, have shown varying levels of hepatitis prevalence, frequently enough influenced by factors such as injection drug use, healthcare practices, and access to vaccination and treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
- what is viral hepatitis?
- Viral hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver caused by a virus. The most common types are hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E.
- How are hepatitis B and C transmitted?
- Hepatitis B is transmitted through blood, semen, and other body fluids. Hepatitis C is primarily transmitted through contact with infected blood,often through sharing needles or syringes.
- Can hepatitis B and C be cured or treated?
- Hepatitis B can be managed with antiviral medications, and a vaccine is available for prevention. Hepatitis C can be cured in most cases with a course of direct-acting antiviral medications.
- What is the significance of hepatitis D?
- Hepatitis D is a coinfection that only occurs in peopel who are already infected with hepatitis B. It can worsen liver damage and increase the risk of liver cancer.
- Why is a nationwide serosurvey important for hepatitis elimination?
- Nationwide serosurveys provide essential data on the prevalence of