Zeitschrift für Infektionskrankheiten und Präventivmedizin
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Comparison of Risk Factors Frequencies of Hepatitis C in Two Provinces

Ozgur Dagli

Risk factors for transmission routes of hepatitis C virus (HCV) may vary in countries like Turkey which has geographical, cultural and socioeconomical differences among regions. In this study data from two provinces of Turkey were analysed to evaluate and compare the risk factors frequencies of HCV. From 2007 through 2014, a total of anti-HCV positive 90 patients from Bursa Yuksek Ihtisas Research and Training Hospital located in the west region of Turkey and 100 patients from Kilis State Hospital located in the south east part were included in the study to compare risk factors of HCV infection. Patients were questioned about history of dental treatment, hospitalization, blood transfusion, surgical operation and intravenous drug use which are major risk factors for transmission of HCV. Overall history of previous dental treatment was the most prevalent risk factor in both provinces followed by hospitalization, blood transfusion and operation. The use of intravenous drugs was higher in Kilis with a statistically significant difference. In every patient at least one risk factor was present. Although Kilis has a conservative community and lower socio economical level, this unexpected observation may be related to reflections of border trade of drugs on society. Thus preventive measures should be taken, considering socioeconomical differences among regions.