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Morrison CN, Mair CF, Bates L, Duncan DT, Branas CC, Bushover BR, Mehranbod CA, Gobaud AN, Uong S, Forrest S, Roberts L, Rundle AG. Defining Spatial Epidemiology: A Systematic Review and Re-orientation. Epidemiology 2024; 35:542-555. [PMID: 38534176 PMCID: PMC11196201 DOI: 10.1097/ede.0000000000001738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spatial epidemiology has emerged as an important subfield of epidemiology over the past quarter century. We trace the origins of spatial epidemiology and note that its emergence coincided with technological developments in spatial statistics and geography. We hypothesize that spatial epidemiology makes important contributions to descriptive epidemiology and analytic risk-factor studies but is not yet aligned with epidemiology's current focus on causal inference and intervention. METHODS We conducted a systematic review of studies indexed in PubMed that used the term "spatial epidemiolog*" in the title, abstract, or keywords. Excluded articles were not written in English, examined disease in animals, or reported biologic pathogen distribution only. We coded the included papers into five categories (review, demonstration of method, descriptive, analytic, and intervention) and recorded the unit of analysis (i.e., individual vs. ecological). We additionally examined articles coded as analytic ecologic studies using scales for lexical content. RESULTS A total of 482 articles met the inclusion criteria, including 76 reviews, 117 demonstrations of methods, 122 descriptive studies, 167 analytic studies, and 0 intervention studies. Demonstration studies were most common from 2006 to 2014, and analytic studies were most common after 2015. Among the analytic ecologic studies, those published in later years used more terms relevant to spatial statistics (incidence rate ratio =1.3; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.1, 1.5) and causal inference (incidence rate ratio =1.1; 95% CI = 1.1, 1.2). CONCLUSIONS Spatial epidemiology is an important and growing subfield of epidemiology. We suggest a re-orientation to help align its practice with the goals of contemporary epidemiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher N. Morrison
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Christina F. Mair
- Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Lisa Bates
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Dustin T. Duncan
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Charles C. Branas
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Brady R. Bushover
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Christina A. Mehranbod
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Ariana N. Gobaud
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Stephen Uong
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Sarah Forrest
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Leah Roberts
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Andrew G. Rundle
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY
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Abdel-Gawad M, Nour M, El-Raey F, Nagdy H, Almansoury Y, El-Kassas M. Gender differences in prevalence of hepatitis C virus infection in Egypt: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Sci Rep 2023; 13:2499. [PMID: 36781919 PMCID: PMC9925441 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-29262-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Egypt is the country with the highest known hepatitis C virus (HCV) prevalence worldwide. The origin of gender differences in HCV prevalence is not usually well understood. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to review and evaluate the gender differences in HCV infection rates amongst Egyptians. Such data would be important to support prevention and control programs aiming to minimize HCV-related morbidity and mortality. PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (WOS) were searched for relevant articles published from 1st January 2011 to 13th December 2021, using the search terms (HCV OR "hepatitis C" OR hepacivirus) AND (prevalence OR seroprevalence OR epidemiology OR incidence OR magnitude). At first, retrieved articles were screened, and then relevant data were extracted and analyzed. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. Out of 616 studies from databases, only 30 were included after the full-text screening, with 193,621 included participants: 97,597 male and 96,024 female. The overall seroprevalence of HCV antibodies in all included studies was 0.02 (CI - 0.23 to 0.28), with no significant difference between males and females. However, HCV RNA positivity was significantly more prevalent in males than females in adults and the general population (after excluding high-risk groups). In children, no statistically significant differences between males and females were found in the seroprevalence of HCV antibodies nor in the prevalence of PCR positivity. HCV RNA positivity is significantly higher in males than females in adults, while there are no gender differences in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Abdel-Gawad
- Hepatology, Gastroenterology, and Infectious Diseases Department, Assiut Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Nour
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Damietta Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Damietta, Egypt
- Faculty of Public Health and Health Informatics, Umm Al-Qura University, Mecca, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fathiya El-Raey
- Hepatogastroenterology and Infectious Diseases Department, Damietta Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Damietta, Egypt
| | - Hanaa Nagdy
- Internal Medicine Department, College of Medicine, Arab Academy for Science and Technology and Maritime Transport, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Yahya Almansoury
- Internal Medicine Department, Gastroenterology and Hepatology Division, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
| | - Mohamed El-Kassas
- Endemic Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University, Ain Helwan, Cairo, 11795, Egypt.
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El-Ghitany EM, Ashour A, Fekry MM, Elrewany E, Farghaly AG, Omran EA. Seroprevalence of Hepatitis A, B and C Among a Sample of Refugees in Egypt: An Exploratory Survey. J Epidemiol Glob Health 2022; 12:430-440. [PMID: 36107333 PMCID: PMC9723078 DOI: 10.1007/s44197-022-00060-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Estimating the prevalence of infectious diseases, including viral hepatitis, among refugees is important for evaluating their health needs and predicting the burden on the health system of the host country. This study aimed at estimating the seroprevalence of viral hepatitis among refugees in Egypt. METHODS This cross-sectional study involved a heterogeneous group of 501 refugees. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were used to detect IgG antibodies against hepatitis A virus (HAV), B virus (HBV) surface antigen (anti-HBsAg), C virus (HCV), and HBV surface antigen (HBsAg). RESULTS Anti-HAV was the most prevalent marker (n = 482, 96.2%), followed by anti-HBs (n = 142, 28.3%) and HBsAg (n = 21, 4.2%), while only four refugees (0.8%) had positive anti-HCV IgG. Anti-HBs was higher in males (p < 0.05). Older refugees and non-working subjects had significantly higher seropositive rates of anti-HAV (p = 0.051 and p = 0.023, respectively), while students and those below 15 years of age had higher rates of anti-HBs (p < 0.05). Positive HBsAg results were associated with history of hepatitis (p < 0.001). Obese participants were more likely to be positive for HBsAg (p = 0.025) and anti-HBs (p < 0.05). Sudanese refugees had significantly higher rates of anti-HAV antibodies (p = 0.049), while Yemini refugees had significantly higher rates for HBsAg (p = 0.019) positivity. Residents of Dakahlia had significantly higher rates of anti-HAV (p = 0.008) and anti-HBs (p < 0.05). None of the studied risk factors was significantly associated with anti-HCV. CONCLUSION Refugees in Egypt have poor immunity against HBV with intermediate to high HBV and low HCV prevalence rates. Despite that 65% of refugees received the HAV vaccine, almost all had IgG anti-HAV, denoting previous infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Engy Mohamed El-Ghitany
- grid.7155.60000 0001 2260 6941Department of Tropical Health, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, 165 El-Horreya Avenue–El-Ibrahimia, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Ayat Ashour
- grid.7155.60000 0001 2260 6941Department of Family Health, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Marwa M. Fekry
- grid.7155.60000 0001 2260 6941Department of Microbiology, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Ehab Elrewany
- grid.7155.60000 0001 2260 6941Department of Tropical Health, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, 165 El-Horreya Avenue–El-Ibrahimia, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Azza Galal Farghaly
- grid.7155.60000 0001 2260 6941Department of Tropical Health, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, 165 El-Horreya Avenue–El-Ibrahimia, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Eman A. Omran
- grid.7155.60000 0001 2260 6941Department of Microbiology, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
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4
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El-Attar EA, Helmy Elkaffas RM, Aglan SA, Naga IS, Nabil A, Abdallah HY. Genomics in Egypt: Current Status and Future Aspects. Front Genet 2022; 13:797465. [PMID: 35664315 PMCID: PMC9157251 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.797465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Egypt is the third most densely inhabited African country. Due to the economic burden and healthcare costs of overpopulation, genomic and genetic testing is a huge challenge. However, in the era of precision medicine, Egypt is taking a shift in approach from “one-size-fits all” to more personalized healthcare via advancing the practice of medical genetics and genomics across the country. This shift necessitates concrete knowledge of the Egyptian genome and related diseases to direct effective preventive, diagnostic and counseling services of prevalent genetic diseases in Egypt. Understanding disease molecular mechanisms will enhance the capacity for personalized interventions. From this perspective, we highlight research efforts and available services for rare genetic diseases, communicable diseases including the coronavirus 2019 disease (COVID19), and cancer. The current state of genetic services in Egypt including availability and access to genetic services is described. Drivers for applying genomics in Egypt are illustrated with a SWOT analysis of the current genetic/genomic services. Barriers to genetic service development in Egypt, whether economic, geographic, cultural or educational are discussed as well. The sensitive topic of communicating genomic results and its ethical considerations is also tackled. To understand disease pathogenesis, much can be gained through the advancement and integration of genomic technologies via clinical applications and research efforts in Egypt. Three main pillars of multidisciplinary collaboration for advancing genomics in Egypt are envisaged: resources, infrastructure and training. Finally, we highlight the recent national plan to establish a genome center that will aim to prepare a map of the Egyptian human genome to discover and accurately determine the genetic characteristics of various diseases. The Reference Genome Project for Egyptians and Ancient Egyptians will initialize a new genomics era in Egypt. We propose a multidisciplinary governance system in Egypt to support genomic medicine research efforts and integrate into the healthcare system whilst ensuring ethical conduct of data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman Ahmed El-Attar
- Chemical Pathology Department, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
- *Correspondence: Eman Ahmed El-Attar,
| | | | - Sarah Ahmed Aglan
- Chemical Pathology Department, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Iman S. Naga
- Department of Microbiology, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Amira Nabil
- Department of Human Genetics, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Hoda Y. Abdallah
- Medical Genetics Unit, Histology and Cell Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
- Center of Excellence in Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
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5
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Varol M, Licka Dieye N, Zang M, Handa D, C Zorich S, Millen AE, Gomez-Duarte OG. Hepatitis C Virus Exposure and Infection in the Perinatal Period. Curr Pediatr Rev 2022; 19:21-33. [PMID: 35440312 DOI: 10.2174/1573396318666220417235358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C virus infection is a leading cause of blood-borne hepatitis disease worldwide. Hepatitis C is a silent liver disease that, without treatment, leads to late-onset complications, including chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma, in 10-40% of patients. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to review the epidemiology, clinical features, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of hepatitis C among perinatally exposed children. METHODS Public databases, including MEDLINE and PubMed, and websites from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Food and Drug Administration, the World Health Organization, and the National Institutes of Health were searched for relevant articles published between 2006 and 2021. RESULTS The prevalence of hepatitis C has increased among women of childbearing age in the United States and is associated with risk factors, such as intravenous drug use, health inequities, and low socioeconomic background. Infants born to hepatitis C virus-infected mothers have a 6% risk of vertical transmission, and among those infected, 75% will develop chronic hepatitis C and late complications. However, hepatitis C-exposed infants are frequently lost to follow-up, and those infected have delayed diagnosis and treatment and are at high risk for late-onset complications. Direct- acting antivirals and the establishment of effective treatment guidelines cure hepatitis C virus infections. CONCLUSION Hepatitis C predominantly affects underserved communities. Early screening of mothers and infants is critical for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of chronic infections and lateonset complications. New policies are needed to address hepatitis C health care inequities affecting mothers and infants in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mine Varol
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, International Enteric Vaccine Research Program (IEVRP), University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Ndeye Licka Dieye
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, International Enteric Vaccine Research Program (IEVRP), University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA.,Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Michael Zang
- Sisters of Charity Hospital, Catholic Health System, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Deepali Handa
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Shauna C Zorich
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Amy E Millen
- Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Health Professions, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Oscar G Gomez-Duarte
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, International Enteric Vaccine Research Program (IEVRP), University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
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6
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Shousha HI, Abdelaziz AO, Nabeel MM, Omran DA, Abdelmaksoud AH, Elbaz TM, Salah A, Harb STE, Hosny KA, Osman A, Atef M, Gaber A, Zayed NA, Yosry AA, Leithy R. Schistosoma mansoni infection and the occurrence, characteristics, and survival of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma: an observational study over a decade. Pathog Glob Health 2021; 116:119-127. [PMID: 34494507 DOI: 10.1080/20477724.2021.1975081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosoma mansoni infection (SMI) is suspected to be directly and indirectly involved in hepato-carcinogenesis. This study evaluated the association of a previous SMI with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development, patients, tumor characteristics, treatment outcomes, and survival. This observational study included patients with HCC with and without previous SMI who presented to the multidisciplinary HCC clinic, Kasr-Alainy hospital (November 2009 to December 2019). It also included 313 patients with liver cirrhosis without HCC. Clinical and laboratory features of the patients (complete blood count, liver/renal functions , alpha-fetoprotein, and hepatitis B/C status), tumor characteristics (Triphasic CT and/or dynamic MRI), liver stiffness (transient elastography), HCC treatment outcome, and overall survival were studied. This study included 1446 patients with HCC; 688(47.6%) composed group-1, defined by patients having a history of SMI, and 758(52.4%) were in group-2 and without history of SMI. Male sex, smoking, diabetes mellitus, splenomegaly, deteriorated performance status, synthetic liver functions, and platelet count were significantly higher in group-1. The groups did not differ with regard to liver stiffness, tumor characteristics, or the occurrence of post-HCC treatment hepatic decompensation or recurrence. HCC treatment response was better in group-2. Group-1 showed lower sustained virological response to hepatitis C direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) compared with group-2 (60% versus 84.3%, respectively, P = 0.027). Prior SMI was associated with HCC (adjusted odds ratio = 1.589, 95% confidence interval = 1.187-2.127), and it was concluded that it increases the risk of HCC. In addition, it significantly affects the performance status, laboratory characteristics, response to DAAs, and overall survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hend Ibrahim Shousha
- Endemic Medicine and Hepato-gastroenterology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ashraf Omar Abdelaziz
- Endemic Medicine and Hepato-gastroenterology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Mahmoud Nabeel
- Endemic Medicine and Hepato-gastroenterology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Dalia Abdelhamid Omran
- Endemic Medicine and Hepato-gastroenterology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Hosni Abdelmaksoud
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Tamer Mahmoud Elbaz
- Endemic Medicine and Hepato-gastroenterology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ayman Salah
- General Surgery Department, Liver Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Karim Adel Hosny
- General Surgery Department, Liver Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ayman Osman
- General Surgery Department, Liver Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mira Atef
- Endemic Medicine and Hepato-gastroenterology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Abdelazez Gaber
- Endemic Medicine and Hepato-gastroenterology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Naglaa Ali Zayed
- Endemic Medicine and Hepato-gastroenterology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ayman Abdelhady Yosry
- Endemic Medicine and Hepato-gastroenterology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Rania Leithy
- Endemic Medicine and Hepato-gastroenterology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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7
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Heiza M, Elmola K, Salama B. Unsafe Practices Associated with HCV Infection Among Adults: A Case Control Study. Int J Prev Med 2021; 12:60. [PMID: 34447502 PMCID: PMC8356959 DOI: 10.4103/ijpvm.ijpvm_94_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Infection with the hepatitis C virus (HCV) occurs globally. It is a substantial cause of chronic liver disease, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Egypt one the countries that has the highest hepatitis C burden in the world. The occurrence of HCV is directly related to the number of individuals who regularly share injection instruments and to the prevalence of inappropriate parenteral procedures in healthcare facilities. The study aimed to identify unhealthy community practices related to HCV infection. Methods: a nested case control study carried out in Damietta Governorate, Egypt. Where150 cases (positive for HCV) and 300 controls (negative for HCV) were randomly chosen. Results: Participant who shared shaving razor was 8.4times more likely to acquire HCV infection followed by IV fluid and needle or sharp stick (about six times more risk).while acupuncture, cupping, tattooing and traditional cauterization carried 1.6 to 3.6 timesmorerisk for HCV infection. Conclusions: Unhealthy community practices carried a higher risk for acquiring HCV infection. It is highly advocated to strengthen infection prevention and control program in health care facilities and health education programs to enhance community awareness and empowerment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Heiza
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Damietta Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Egypt
| | - Khaled Elmola
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Damietta Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Egypt
| | - Basem Salama
- Community Medicine, Damietta Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Egypt
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8
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Elbahrawy A, Ibrahim MK, Eliwa A, Alboraie M, Madian A, Aly HH. Current situation of viral hepatitis in Egypt. Microbiol Immunol 2021; 65:352-372. [PMID: 33990999 DOI: 10.1111/1348-0421.12916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
An estimated 8-10 million people suffer from viral hepatitis in Egypt. Hepatitis A virus (HAV) and hepatitis E virus (HEV) are the major causes of viral hepatitis in Egypt as 50% or more of the Egyptian population are already exposed to HAV infection by the age of 15. In addition, over 60% of the Egyptian population test seropositive for anti-HEV in the first decade of life. HEV mainly causes self-limiting hepatitis; however, cases of fulminant hepatitis and liver failure were reported in Egypt. Hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and hepatitis D virus (HDV) are the main causes of chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma [HCC]) in Egypt. Globally, Egypt had the highest age-standardized death rate due to cirrhosis from 1990 to 2017. The prevalence rate of HBV (1.3%-1.5%) has declined after national infantile immunization. Coinfection of HBV patients with HDV is common in Egypt because HDV antibodies (IgG) vary in range from 8.3% to 43% among total HBV patients. After the conduction of multiple national programs to control HCV infection, a lower rate of HCV prevalence (4.6%) was recently reported. Data about the incidence of HCV after treatment with direct antiviral agents (DAAs) are lacking. An HCC incidence of 29/1000/year in cirrhotic patients after DAA treatment is reported. A higher rate of infiltrative pattern among HCC patients after DAA treatment is also recognized. Viral hepatitis is one of the major public health concerns in Egypt that needs more attention and funding from health policymakers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashraf Elbahrawy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Marwa K Ibrahim
- Department of Microbial Biotechnology, Division of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt.,Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ahmed Eliwa
- Department of Internal Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Alboraie
- Department of Internal Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ali Madian
- Department of Internal Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Hussein Hassan Aly
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
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Hussein O, El-Ghitany EM, Omran M, Matariek G, Elbadaly EA, Hamdy R, Gamal A, Zayed MM, Nasr A, Hamdy O, Elbasiony M, Abdelwahab K. High Seroprevalence of Hepatitis C Virus Antibody in Breast Cancer Patients in Egypt. BREAST CANCER-BASIC AND CLINICAL RESEARCH 2021; 15:11782234211002499. [PMID: 33814915 PMCID: PMC7995286 DOI: 10.1177/11782234211002499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a known risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma. Several epidemiological studies have pointed out to an association of HCV infection with other extrahepatic malignancies. The role of chronic HCV in breast cancer causation is less clear. Egypt is an endemic area of HCV infection with resulting significant morbidity. The association between HCV status and breast cancer risk in Egyptian women is hitherto unknown. Methods: A retrospective study was performed. The prevalence of anti-HCV seropositivity was estimated in a sample of women with a breast cancer diagnosis, retrieved from the hospital records, and was compared to the raw data of a population study in Egypt. Anti-HCV negative and positive patients were compared regarding the disease course and outcome. Results: Retrospective analysis revealed a markedly high prevalence of anti-HCV seropositivity in young breast cancer patients. In patients younger than 45 years, 13.4% were anti-HCV positive. Seropositivity was 6-fold higher in these patients than in adult females of the same age without cancer diagnosis (P = .003). The biological type, tumor size, nodal status, and disease-free survival were not affected by the patients’ HCV status. Conclusion: Young Egyptian breast cancer patients have a dramatically high prevalence of HCV seropositivity. Further population studies are strongly required to investigate the epidemiological association of these two significant health problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osama Hussein
- Oncology Center and Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Engy Mohamed El-Ghitany
- Tropical Health Department, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Mawadda Omran
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | | | | | - Rana Hamdy
- Faculty of Science, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Amira Gamal
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | | | - Ahmed Nasr
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Omar Hamdy
- Oncology Center and Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Elbasiony
- Hepatology and Gastroenterology Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Khaled Abdelwahab
- Oncology Center and Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
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10
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Evaluation of Serum and Gene Expression of Galectin-4, Interleukin-27, and Complement-7 in Hepatitis C Virus-Infected Egyptian Patients. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:8879758. [PMID: 33381596 PMCID: PMC7758134 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8879758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Background Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is considered a major global public health problem. Recently, there are great advances in HCV therapy, but there are some limitations that are creating an urgent need for assessment of some cytokines that have a potent antiviral effect in the immune system and anti-inflammatory effects to provide a potential novel immunotherapeutic target in HCV infection. Objective This study was directed to assess the serum levels and gene expression levels of Galectin-4 (LEG4), Interleukin-27 (IL-27), and Complement-7 (C-7) and their correlation with the viral load in HCV infection. Subjects and Methods. This work was conducted on 80 subjects, Group 1 (n = 40) early detected HCV patients and Group 2 (n = 40) healthy controls. LEG4, IL-27, and C-7 were assessed at the protein levels by ELISA, and their gene expression was assessed by RT-qPCR. The viral load was measured by PCR. Results There were significant elevations in the mean levels of gene expression and serum levels of all studied parameters LEG4, IL-27, and C-7 in the HCV group compared to the control group. Significant negative correlations between the viral load and each of the serum proteins and gene expressions of both LEG4 and IL-27 in HCV patients were found. The gene expression levels of LEG4, IL-27, and C-7 were positively correlated with their corresponding serum proteins in HCV patients. Conclusion LEG4 and IL-27 showed significant negative correlations with the viral load, which could be an immune response to the control of the extent of hepatic inflammation, thus creating a potential novel immunotherapeutic approach in HCV infection for further studies or therapeutic clinical trials.
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Sheta SM, El-Sheikh SM, Osman DI, Salem AM, Ali OI, Harraz FA, Shousha WG, Shoeib MA, Shawky SM, Dionysiou DD. A novel HCV electrochemical biosensor based on a polyaniline@Ni-MOF nanocomposite. Dalton Trans 2020; 49:8918-8926. [DOI: 10.1039/d0dt01408g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
A novel label-free electrochemical biosensor constructed using a polyaniline@nickel metal–organic framework (Ni-MOF) nanocomposite for direct detection of HCV-RNA.
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Soliman G, Elzalabany MS, Hassanein T, Miller FD. Mass screening for hepatitis B and C in Southern Upper Egypt. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:1326. [PMID: 31640639 PMCID: PMC6805514 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-7640-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background It is well documented that Egypt has the highest prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in the world. The recent development of highly effective direct acting antiviral drugs (DAAs), has opened the possibility of treating and curing HCV infection in the Egyptian population on a large scale. Methods A screening demonstration project was implemented in southern Egypt in and around the city of Luxor. Free screening and if indicated, treatment, was offered to those 16 years or older for anti-HCV antibodies (anti-HCV) and hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) using third generation enzyme immunoassays (Enzygnost® Anti-HCV and HbsAg). Statistical methods included estimation of odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Results There was a large turnout of 67,042 persons who were screened in a 12-month period starting in June 2016. Thirty-one thousand nine hundred sixty-four males (47.7%) and 35,074 females (52.3%) were screened with a mean age of 43.6 ± 14.3 years. Nine thousand seven hundred one patients (14.5%) were positive for anti-HCV and 2950 (4.4%) for HBsAg. Prevalence of anti-HCV was significantly higher in males than females (19.67% vs.9.73% OR = 2.27; CI 2.2 to 2.4; p < 0.001) and the same for HBsAg (6.2% vs. 2.8% OR = 2.3; CI 2.2 to 2.5; p < 0.001). The prevalence of anti-HCV was significantly associated with age (p < 0.001), ranging from between 1 and 4% in individuals below the age of 40 years, then increased steadily to 42% at age 60 followed by a precipitous decline in age specific prevalence. Conclusions The results showed unanticipated patterns in the Luxor area of anti-HCV and HBsAg by age and gender in contrast to previous reports on this unique HCV epidemic in Egypt. Moreover, the level and rate of turnout, cost, and other logistical issues, provided essential information for effective planning, design, and evaluation methods for larger national mass screening and treatment programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gamal Soliman
- Tropical Medicine, Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | | | - F DeWolfe Miller
- John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA.
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