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Kristian P, Hockicková I, Hatalová E, Žilinčanová D, Rác M, Bednárová V, Lenártová PD, Dražilová S, Skladaný Ľ, Schréter I, Jarčuška P, Halánová M. Is Slovakia Almost a Hepatitis D Free Country? Viruses 2023; 15:1695. [PMID: 37632037 PMCID: PMC10459979 DOI: 10.3390/v15081695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is assumed that the prevalence of hepatitis D in HBsAg-positive individuals reaches 4.5-13% in the world and on average about 3% in Europe. Data from several European countries, including Slovakia, are missing or are from an older period. METHODS We analyzed all available data on hepatitis D from Slovakia, including reports from the Slovak Public Health Authority and the results of one prospective study, and three smaller surveys. The determination of anti-HDV IgG and IgM antibodies and/or HDV RNA was used to detect hepatitis D. RESULTS In the years 2005-2022, no confirmed case of acute or chronic HDV infection was reported in Slovakia. The presented survey includes a total of 343 patients, of which 126 were asymptomatic HBsAg carriers, 33 acute hepatitis B, and 184 chronic hepatitis B cases. In a recent prospective study of 206 HBsAg-positive patients who were completely serologically and virologically examined for hepatitis B and D, only 1 anti-HDV IgG-positive and no anti-HDV IgM or HDV RNA-positive cases were detected. In other smaller surveys, two anti-HDV IgG-positive patients were found without the possibility of HDV RNA confirmation. In total, only 3 of 329 HBsAg-positive patients (0.91%) tested positive for anti-HDV IgG antibodies, and none of 220 tested positive for HDV RNA. CONCLUSION The available data show that Slovakia is one of the countries with a very low prevalence of HDV infection, reaching less than 1% in HBsAg-positive patients. Routine testing for hepatitis D is lacking in Slovakia, and therefore it is necessary to implement testing of all HBsAg-positive individuals according to international recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavol Kristian
- Department of Infectology and Travel Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Louis Pasteur University Hospital, Pavol Jozef Safarik University, 041 90 Kosice, Slovakia; (P.K.); (P.D.L.); (I.S.)
| | - Ivana Hockicková
- Department of Infectology and Travel Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Louis Pasteur University Hospital, Pavol Jozef Safarik University, 041 90 Kosice, Slovakia; (P.K.); (P.D.L.); (I.S.)
| | - Elena Hatalová
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozes Safarik University, 040 11 Kosice, Slovakia; (E.H.); (V.B.); (M.H.)
| | - Daniela Žilinčanová
- II. Department of Internal Medicine, HEGITO Division Hepatology, Gastroenterology and Liver Transplantation, F. D. Roosevelt University Hospital, Slovak Medical University, 974 01 Banska Bystrica, Slovakia; (D.Ž.); (Ľ.S.)
| | - Marek Rác
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty Hospital, 949 01 Nitra, Slovakia;
| | - Veronika Bednárová
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozes Safarik University, 040 11 Kosice, Slovakia; (E.H.); (V.B.); (M.H.)
| | - Patrícia Denisa Lenártová
- Department of Infectology and Travel Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Louis Pasteur University Hospital, Pavol Jozef Safarik University, 041 90 Kosice, Slovakia; (P.K.); (P.D.L.); (I.S.)
| | - Sylvia Dražilová
- 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Louis Pasteur University Hospital, Pavol Jozef Safarik University, 041 90 Kosice, Slovakia; (S.D.); (P.J.)
| | - Ľubomír Skladaný
- II. Department of Internal Medicine, HEGITO Division Hepatology, Gastroenterology and Liver Transplantation, F. D. Roosevelt University Hospital, Slovak Medical University, 974 01 Banska Bystrica, Slovakia; (D.Ž.); (Ľ.S.)
| | - Ivan Schréter
- Department of Infectology and Travel Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Louis Pasteur University Hospital, Pavol Jozef Safarik University, 041 90 Kosice, Slovakia; (P.K.); (P.D.L.); (I.S.)
| | - Peter Jarčuška
- 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Louis Pasteur University Hospital, Pavol Jozef Safarik University, 041 90 Kosice, Slovakia; (S.D.); (P.J.)
| | - Monika Halánová
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozes Safarik University, 040 11 Kosice, Slovakia; (E.H.); (V.B.); (M.H.)
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Abate D, Tolera A, Hawulte B, Tesfa T, Geleto A. Sero-Prevalence of HBV and its Associated Factors Among Healthcare Providers in Public Health Facilities in Eastern Ethiopia. INFECTIOUS DISEASES: RESEARCH AND TREATMENT 2022; 15:11786337211062622. [PMID: 35023926 PMCID: PMC8744165 DOI: 10.1177/11786337211062622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background: Healthcare providers are in high occupational risk of Hepatitis B virus
infection than that of the general population because of the high risk of
occupational exposure to patients’ body fluids and accidental sharp
injuries. There are no large facility-based studies conducted on the
prevalence of HBV infection and its associated factors among health care
providers in eastern Ethiopia. Objective: This study aimed at investigating the seroprevalence of Hepatitis B Virus and
its associated factors among the healthcare providers in public health
facilities in eastern Ethiopia. Methods: A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 438 randomly
selected healthcare providers in eastern Ethiopia from March to June 2018.
Pretested structured questionnaire was used to collect data on
socio-demographic characteristics and other risk factors. In addition, a
2.5 ml blood was collected and the serum was analyzed for Hepatitis B
surface antigen using the Instant Hepatitis B surface antigen kit. Data were
entered using Epidata version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS statistical
packages version 22. Descriptive summary measures were used. Bivariate and
multivariable logistic regression was conducted at 95% CI. An association at
P-value <.05 was considered statistically
significant. Results: A total of 438 (92.02% response rate) health care providers have participated
in this study. The prevalence of hepatitis B virus infection was 9.6%. There
were no significant differences in the HBV infection rates among healthcare
providers with respect to socio-demographic characteristics
(P-value >.05). After adjusting for some variables,
the following variables remained statistically significantly associated with
HBsAg positive result in the multivariable analysis: exposure to body fluids
(AOR = 3.0; 95% CI [1.25, 7.05]), history of needle stick injury
(AOR = 4.70; 95% CI [2.10, 10.55]), history of operation/surgery
(AOR = 4.88, 95% CI [1.43, 16.62]), history of multiple sexual partner
(AOR = 7.48; 95% CI [2.08, 26.96]), and being unvaccinated (AOR = 6.09; 95%
CI [2.75, 13.51]). Conclusion: This study showed a high prevalence of HBV infection among health care
providers in eastern Ethiopia. This is significant because health
professionals may be at increased risk of chronic complications and may also
be source of infection for their clients and general population during their
healthcare practice. Management commitment that should focus on occupational
safety and health promotions is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Degu Abate
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Haramaya University, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Abebe Tolera
- School of Public Health, Haramaya University, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Behailu Hawulte
- School of Public Health, Haramaya University, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Tewodros Tesfa
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Haramaya University, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Ayele Geleto
- School of Public Health, Haramaya University, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Harar, Ethiopia
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Comparison of Two Diagnostic Methods for the Detection of Hepatitis B Virus Genotypes in the Slovak Republic. Pathogens 2021; 11:pathogens11010020. [PMID: 35055968 PMCID: PMC8780131 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11010020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The hepatitis B virus (HBV), belonging to the Hepadnaviridae family, is responsible for a global health concern still in the 21st century. The virus is divided into 10 genotypes, which differ in geographical distribution and in their effect on disease progression and transmission, susceptibility to mutations, and response to treatment. There are many methods for diagnostics of HBV and differentiating its genotypes. Various commercial kits based on real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT PCR) and hybridization available, as well as whole genome sequencing or the sequencing of only individual parts of the genomes. We compared a commercial kit AmpliSens HBV-genotype-FRT, based on RT PCR, with an adapted method of amplification of the surface genomic region combined with Sanger sequencing. In the examined samples we identified the A, B, C, D, and E genotypes. By PCR with Sanger sequencing, the genotypes were determined in all 103 samples, while by using the commercial kit we successfully genotyped only 95 samples, including combined genotypes, which we could not detect by sequencing.
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Mengiste DA, Dirbsa AT, Ayele BH, Hailegiyorgis TT. Hepatitis B virus infection and its associated factors among medical waste collectors at public health facilities in eastern Ethiopia: a facility-based cross-sectional study. BMC Infect Dis 2021; 21:233. [PMID: 33639871 PMCID: PMC7912495 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-021-05918-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The risk of hepatitis B virus infection among medical waste handlers who undergo collection, transportation, and disposal of medical wastes in the health institutions is higher due to frequent exposure to contaminated blood and other body fluids. There is limited evidence on the seroprevalence of hepatitis B among medical waste handlers in eastern Ethiopia. The study was aimed at studying the seroprevalence of Hepatitis B Virus and associated risk factors among medical waste collectors at health facilities of eastern Ethiopia. METHODS A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among randomly selected medical waste collectors from public health facilities in eastern Ethiopia from March to June 2018. A pre-tested and well-structured questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics and hepatitis B infection risk factors. A2.5ml venous blood was also collected, centrifuged and the serum was analyzed for hepatitis B surface antigen using the instant hepatitis B surface antigen kit. Descriptive summary measures were done. Chi-square and Fisher exact tests were used to assess the risk of association. Multivariate logistic regression was conducted with 95% CI and all value at P-value < 0.05 was declared statistically significant. RESULTS From a total of 260 (97.38%) medical waste collectors participated, HBV was detected in 53 (20.4%) of the participants [95%CI; 15.8, 25.6]. No significant differences were observed in the detection rates of HBV with respect to socio-demographic characteristics. In both bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis, being unvaccinated (AOR = 6.35; 95%CI = [2.53-15.96], P = 0.001), history of blood transfusion (receiving) (AOR; 3.54; 95%CI; [1.02-12.24], P = 0.046), history of tattooing (AOR = 2.86; 95%CI = [1.12-7.27], p = 0.03), and history of multiple sexual partner (AOR = 10.28; 95%CI = [4.16-25.38], P = 0.001) remained statistically significantly associated with HBsAg positivity. CONCLUSION This cross-sectional study identified that HBV infection is high among medical waste collectors in eastern Ethiopia. Immunization and on job health promotion and disease prevention measures should be considered in order to control the risk of HBV infection among medical waste collectors in eastern Ethiopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Degu Abate Mengiste
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, P.O. Box, 235, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Abebe Tolera Dirbsa
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics Unit, College of Health and Medical Sciences, School of Public Health, Haramaya University, P.O. Box, 235, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Behailu Hawulte Ayele
- Public Health and Policy Unit, College of Health and Medical Sciences, School of Public Health, Haramaya University, P.O. Box, 235, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Tewodros Tesfa Hailegiyorgis
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, P.O. Box, 235, Harar, Ethiopia
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Mrzljak A, Bajkovec L, Vilibic-Cavlek T. Hepatotropic viruses: Is Roma population at risk? World J Gastroenterol 2021; 27:143-151. [PMID: 33510555 PMCID: PMC7807296 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v27.i2.143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Roma people make up a significant ethnic minority in many European countries, with the vast majority living in Central and Eastern Europe. Roma are a vulnerable population group in social, economic, and political terms. Frequent migrations, life in segregated communities, substandard housing, poverty, and limited access to quality health care, including low immunization coverage, affect their health status and predispose them to various diseases, including viral hepatitis. Hepatitis A, B, and E are highly prevalent among Roma and mainly associated with low socioeconomic status. In contrast, hepatitis C does not seem to be more frequent in the Roma population. Enhanced efforts should be directed towards the implementation of screening programs, preventive measures, and treatment of viral hepatitis in Roma communities throughout Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Mrzljak
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital Merkur, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
| | - Lucija Bajkovec
- Department of Medicine, County Hospital Cakovec, Cakovec 40000, Croatia
| | - Tatjana Vilibic-Cavlek
- Department of Virology, Croatian Institute of Public Health, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
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Drazilova S, Kristian P, Janicko M, Halanova M, Safcak D, Dorcakova PD, Marekova M, Pella D, Madarasova-Geckova A, Jarcuska P. What is the Role of the Horizontal Transmission of Hepatitis B Virus Infection in Young Adult and Middle-Aged Roma Population Living in the Settlements in East Slovakia? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17093293. [PMID: 32397342 PMCID: PMC7246499 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17093293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background: The aim of our work is to objectify the manner of transmission of HBV infection in young adult and middle-aged Roma people who live in the settlements. Methods: We used data from the cross-sectional study HepaMeta. We analyzed Roma people living in the settlements in East Slovakia, who have had HBsAg and anti HBc IgG antibodies examined. Results: We analyzed a cohort of 452 Roma participants with a mean of age 34.67 ± 9.14 years—159 (35.2%) were males. HBsAg positivity was diagnosed in 12.4% and the presence of anti HBc IgG antibodies was confirmed in 52% of participants. Prevalence of HBsAg positivity increases significantly with higher age, (p = 0.026), as well as the presence of anti HBc IgG antibodies (p < 0.0001). The prevalence of HBsAg positivity has doubled and anti HBc IgG positivity has tripled within two decades (<25 years vs. 35–45 years) in Roma settlements in East Slovakia. Conclusions: These findings allow us to express an opinion that horizontal transmission in adulthood may play an important role in the spreading of HBV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia Drazilova
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Poprad and Faculty of Medicine, P.J. Safarik University, 058 01 Poprad, Slovakia;
| | - Pavol Kristian
- Department of Infectology and Travel Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, P.J. Safarik University and L. Pasteur University Hospital, 040 01 Kosice, Slovakia;
- Correspondence:
| | - Martin Janicko
- 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, P.J. Safarik University and L. Pasteur University Hospital, 040 11 Kosice, Slovakia; (M.J.); (P.J.)
| | - Monika Halanova
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, P.J. Safarik University, 040 01 Kosice, Slovakia;
| | - Dominik Safcak
- East Slovakia Oncology Institute and Faculty of Medicine, P.J. Safarik University, 040 01 Kosice, Slovakia;
| | - Patricia Denisa Dorcakova
- Department of Infectology and Travel Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, P.J. Safarik University and L. Pasteur University Hospital, 040 01 Kosice, Slovakia;
| | - Maria Marekova
- Department of Medical and Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, P.J. Safarik University, 040 11 Kosice, Slovakia;
| | - Daniel Pella
- 2nd Department of Cardiology, East Slovak Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases and Faculty of Medicine, P.J. Safarik University, 040 11 Kosice, Slovakia;
| | - Andrea Madarasova-Geckova
- Department of Health Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, P.J. Safarik University, 040 11 Kosice, Slovakia;
| | - Peter Jarcuska
- 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, P.J. Safarik University and L. Pasteur University Hospital, 040 11 Kosice, Slovakia; (M.J.); (P.J.)
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Pavlikova B, Freel L, van Dijk JP. To Comply or Not to Comply: Roma Approach to Health Laws. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E3087. [PMID: 32365484 PMCID: PMC7246461 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17093087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
According to the general public in Slovakia, compliance with the law is problematic when it comes to Roma and health. Roma compliance with laws has not yet been studied. The aim of this is study was to explore the determinants of Roma behavior in the field of health laws. We used the concept of a semi-autonomous field proposed by Moore (1973) and the theory of planned behavior by Ajzen (1985). We found that Roma (non-)compliance with health laws was influenced by many different factors, such as beliefs, traditions, living conditions and culture. Group beliefs overrule national laws and also individual preferences, which tend to be subordinate to the group view. The less contact Roma from settlements have with non-Roma, the stronger their own rules are in the field of health. Roma health status is influenced by many factors: group beliefs and community traditions are stronger and overrule individual and state behavioral influence. A community-based participatory approach together with improvement of living conditions in cooperation with Roma is desirable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Pavlikova
- Research Agency, 831 02 Bratislava, Slovakia
- Department of Labor Law and Social Welfare Law, Faculty of Law, Comenius University, 810 00 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Lenka Freel
- Department of Labor Law and Social Welfare Law, Faculty of Law, Comenius University, 810 00 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Jitse P. van Dijk
- Department of Community and Occupational Medicine, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
- Graduate School Kosice Institute for Society and Health, Faculty of Medicine, P.J. Safarik University in Kosice, 040 01 Kosice, Slovakia
- Theological Faculty, Olomouc University Social Health Institute, Palacky University, 771 11 Olomouc, Czech Republic
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Macejova Z, Kristian P, Janicko M, Halanova M, Drazilova S, Antolova D, Marekova M, Pella D, Madarasova-Geckova A, Jarcuska P. The Roma Population Living in Segregated Settlements in Eastern Slovakia Has a Higher Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome, Kidney Disease, Viral Hepatitis B and E, and Some Parasitic Diseases Compared to the Majority Population. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E3112. [PMID: 32365672 PMCID: PMC7246595 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17093112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Background: The Roma population is one of the largest marginalized population groups in Europe. The aim of our work was to summarize the morbidity of lifestyle-related diseases and infectious diseases in the Roma population living in segregated settlements. Methods: We used data from the cross-sectional study HepaMeta, in which we examined 452 Roma subjects with an average age of 34.7 ± 9.1 years, 35.2% of which were men, and 403 non-Roma subjects with an average age of 33.5 ± 7.4 years, 45.9% of which were men. We collected data by means of a questionnaire, anthropometric measures, and we analyzed blood and urine samples. Results: Roma subjects had a higher incidence of metabolic syndrome (RR: 1.478 (1.159-1.885), p < 0.0001), obesity or waist circumference >94 cm in men/80 cm in women (RR: 1.287 (1.127-1.470), p < 0.0001), and HDL-C < 1.03 mmol/L in men or <1.29 in women (RR: 2.004 (1.730-2.321), p < 0.0001) than their non-Roma counterparts. Subjects of the Roma population were more frequently diagnosed with kidney disease (RR: 1.216 (1.096-1.349), p < 0.0001), HBsAg positivity (RR: 4.468 (2.373-8.415), p < 0.0001), anti HBc IgG positivity (RR: 3.13 (2.598-4.224), p < 0.0001), and anti HEV positivity (RR: 2.972 (1.226-7.287), p < 0.0001). Serological markers of Toxoplasma gondii infection and Toxocara spp. were observed much more frequently among Roma than non-Roma subjects (RR: 1.868 (1.520-2.296), p < 0.0001, for Toxoplasma gondii; and RR: 21.812 (8.097-58.761), p < 0.0001, for Toxocara spp.). Conclusions: Poor socio-economic conditions, an unhealthy lifestyle, and barriers precluding access to healthcare are factors that affect the Roma population in settlements and lead to an increased prevalence of metabolic syndrome and its components, kidney disease, viral hepatitis B and E, and some parasitic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zelmira Macejova
- 1st Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Safarik University and Louis Pasteur University Hospital, 040 11 Kosice, Slovakia;
| | - Pavol Kristian
- Department of Infectology and Travel Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Safarik University and Louis Pasteur University Hospital, 040 01 Kosice, Slovakia
| | - Martin Janicko
- 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Safarik University and Louis Pasteur University Hospital, 040 11 Kosice, Slovakia; (M.J.); (P.J.)
| | - Monika Halanova
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Safarik University, 040 01 Kosice, Slovakia;
| | - Sylvia Drazilova
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Poprad and Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Safarik University, 058 01 Poprad, Slovakia;
| | - Daniela Antolova
- Department of Parasitic Diseases, Institute of Parasitology SAS, Hlinkova 3, 040 01 Kosice, Slovakia;
| | - Maria Marekova
- Department of Medical and Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Safarik University, 040 11 Kosice, Slovakia;
| | - Daniel Pella
- 2nd Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Safarik University and East Slovak, Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Safarik University, 040 11 Kosice, Slovakia;
| | - Andrea Madarasova-Geckova
- Department of Health Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Safarik University, 040 11 Kosice, Slovakia;
| | - Peter Jarcuska
- 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Safarik University and Louis Pasteur University Hospital, 040 11 Kosice, Slovakia; (M.J.); (P.J.)
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Touloumi G, Karakosta A, Sypsa V, Petraki I, Anagnostou O, Terzidis A, Voudouri NM, Gavana M, Vantarakis A, Rachiotis G, Kantzanou M, Rosenberg T, Papatheodoridis G, Hatzakis A. Design and Development of a Viral Hepatitis and HIV Infection Screening Program (Hprolipsis) for the General, Greek Roma, and Migrant Populations of Greece: Protocol for Three Cross-Sectional Health Examination Surveys. JMIR Res Protoc 2020; 9:e13578. [PMID: 32004142 PMCID: PMC7055811 DOI: 10.2196/13578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Revised: 06/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Although infectious diseases are globally on the decline, they remain a major global public health problem. Among them, the hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV) and HIV infection are of primary interest. Valid prevalence data on these infections are sparse in Greece, especially for vulnerable populations. Objective This study aimed to present the design and methods of Hprolipsis, an integrated viral hepatitis and HIV screening program administered to adults (≥18 years) from the general, Greek Roma, and migrant populations. Its aims were to estimate the prevalence of HBV, HCV, and HIV; assess infectious disease knowledge level; design, implement, and assess population-specific awareness actions; and offer individual counseling and referral when indicated and HBV vaccination to susceptible Roma and migrants. Methods Multistage, stratified, random sampling based on the 2011 Census was applied to select the general population sample, and nonprobability multistage quota sampling was used for Roma and migrant sample selection. Trained personnel made home (general population) or community (Roma and migrants) visits. Collected blood samples were tested for Hepatitis B surface Antigen, Hepatitis B core Antibody, Hepatitis B surface Antibody, Hepatitis C Antibody, and HIV 1,2 Antibody. The surveys were conducted during May 2013 and June 2016. To estimate an HCV prevalence of 1.5% with 0.3 precision, the required general population sample size was estimated to be 6000. As migrants constitute 10% of the whole Greek population, the migrant sample size was set to 600. A feasible sample size of 500 Greek Roma was set. Results In total, 6006 individuals from the general population (response rate 72%), 534 Greek Roma, and 612 migrants were recruited. Blood test results are available for 4245 individuals from the general population, 523 Roma, and 537 migrants. Conclusions Hprolipsis is the first nationwide survey on HBV, HCV, and HIV. Its results will enhance our understanding of the health needs and disease burden of these diseases in the 3 studied populations. Its implementation provided useful recommendations for future studies, particularly in vulnerable populations. International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/13578
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Affiliation(s)
- Giota Touloumi
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology, and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Argiro Karakosta
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology, and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Vana Sypsa
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology, and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Ioanna Petraki
- International Medicine-Health Crisis Management, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Olga Anagnostou
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology, and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Agis Terzidis
- International Medicine-Health Crisis Management, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Niki Maria Voudouri
- Programs of Development, Social Support, and Medical Cooperation (PRAKSIS), Athens, Greece
| | | | - Magda Gavana
- Department of Primary Health Care, General Practice, and Health Services Research, Medical School of Aristotle University, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Apostolos Vantarakis
- Environmental Microbiology Unit of Public Health, Medical School, University of Patras, Patra, Greece
| | - George Rachiotis
- Department of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Medical Faculty, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece
| | - Maria Kantzanou
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology, and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Theofilos Rosenberg
- International Medicine-Health Crisis Management, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - George Papatheodoridis
- Department of Gastroenterology, Laiko General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Angelos Hatzakis
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology, and Medical Statistics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Kozubik M, van Dijk JP, Filakovska Bobakova D. Aspects of Illness and Death among Roma-Have They Changed after More than Two Hundred Years? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16234796. [PMID: 31795378 PMCID: PMC6926993 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16234796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Augustini studied Roma and published reports in 1775–1776 on their illnesses and death. Our intention was to compare the features of these two topics described by him in the late 18th century with those in the present time. We studied Augustini’s work on illnesses and death in the past. The present qualitative study was conducted in 2012–2013 in the same geographical area in which Augustini lived and worked more than two hundred years ago, i.e., the Tatra Region in Slovakia; our findings were evaluated in 2017–2018. We carried out semi-structured interviews with more than 70 informants and organised two sessions of focus groups. Data were analysed using content analysis (Augustini) and an open coding process. Our findings suggest that illnesses in Roma are treated differently nowadays compared with 1775–1776. For example, the traditional forms of healing have completely disappeared in the area of investigation. We did not observe any differences in dying and death perceptions between the past and nowadays. Although data and knowledge on health disparities and related mechanisms exist, and much more about perceptions of Roma regarding illnesses is now known compared with 1775–1776, so far, this knowledge has not helped to design effective interventions to overcome them. Substandard living conditions in marginalised Roma communities have not significantly improved since 1775–1776, which may contribute to their higher morbidity and mortality also nowadays. Political and social consensus should lead to a comprehensive vision for enhancing the social situation and living conditions in segregated settlements, especially providing housing for the poorest classes and overcoming health disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Kozubik
- Department of Social Work and Social Sciences, Faculty of Social Sciences and Health Care, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, 949 74 Nitra, Slovak;
- Department of Community & Occupational Medicine, University Medical Centre Groningen, University Groningen, Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jitse P. van Dijk
- Department of Community & Occupational Medicine, University Medical Centre Groningen, University Groningen, Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
- Olomouc University Social Health Institute, Palacky University in Olomouc, 771 11 Olomouc, Czech Republic;
- Graduate School Kosice Institute for Society and Health, Faculty of Medicine, Safarik University in Kosice, 040 01 Kosice, Slovak
- Correspondence:
| | - Daniela Filakovska Bobakova
- Olomouc University Social Health Institute, Palacky University in Olomouc, 771 11 Olomouc, Czech Republic;
- Graduate School Kosice Institute for Society and Health, Faculty of Medicine, Safarik University in Kosice, 040 01 Kosice, Slovak
- Department of Health Psychology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Pavol Jozef Safarik in Kosice, 040 01 Kosice, Slovak
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11
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Prabina P, Jayanthi S, Krishna Murthy C, Kumar SB, Banu AS, Sakunthala SR, Perumal J. A Study on Hepatitis B Viral Seromarkers and Associated Risk Factors among the Patients Suffering from Acute and Chronic Hepatitis B Infection. Int J Appl Basic Med Res 2019; 9:206-211. [PMID: 31681544 PMCID: PMC6822324 DOI: 10.4103/ijabmr.ijabmr_263_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2018] [Revised: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Hepatitis B viral infection is the most common cause of hepatitis, and it leads to serious liver diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Aim: The aim of the study is to differentiate acute hepatitis B and chronic hepatitis B (CHB) among patients seropositive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). Materials and Methods: This study was carried out in the Department of Microbiology, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Kelambakkam, Tamil Nadu, India, for a period of 6 months (January 2018–June 2018). Blood samples were collected from 87 patients for the detection of hepatitis B virus (HBV) serological markers. HBsAg, hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg), anti-HBc total, anti-HBc IgM, and antibody to hepatitis B surface antigen were screened using the ELISA method. Detailed demographic profile including history of previous hepatitis infection, previous blood transfusion, and other related details were collected and documented using a structured questionnaire. Results: A total of 87 patients were HBsAg seropositive; among them, 55 (63.2%) were male and 32 (36.9%) were female. Based on the serological markers tested, 24 and 63 were suffering from acute and chronic HBV infections, respectively. Among the acute hepatitis B patients, all samples were seropositive for HBsAg, anti-HBc total, and anti-HBc IgM. HBeAg seromarker was found in 15 patients (62.5%). Among the CHB patients, all samples were seropositive for HBsAg and anti-HBc total. HBeAg seromarker was found in 28 patients with 44.4%. Alcohol consumption was the major risk factor for the transmission of HBV infection. Conclusion: An increased sample size and detailed study of high-risk behavior will provide an alarming awareness of their association.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Prabina
- Department of Microbiology, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - S Jayanthi
- Department of Microbiology, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - C Krishna Murthy
- Department of Microbiology, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - S Babu Kumar
- Department of Gastroenterology, Chettinad Super Speciality Hospital, Kelambakkam, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - As Shameem Banu
- Department of Microbiology, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - S R Sakunthala
- Department of General Medicine, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - J Perumal
- Department of Microbiology, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam, Tamil Nadu, India
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12
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Apidechkul T. Seroprevalence and factors associated with hepatitis B virus infection among the hill tribe youths, northern Thailand. BMC Infect Dis 2019; 19:125. [PMID: 30727952 PMCID: PMC6366101 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-019-3747-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major viral infection, particularly in people living in the Western Pacific region, including the hill tribe people living in northern Thailand. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of HBV infection and to detect the factors associated with HBV infection among hill tribe youths in Thailand. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted to estimate the prevalence and determine the factors associated with HBV infection among hill tribe youths living in northern Thailand. A validated questionnaire and 5 mL blood sample were used for data collection. The Wondfo Diagnostic Kit®, the Wondfo One Step HBsAg Serum/Plasma Test®, and the Wondfo One Step HBsAg Serum/Plasma Test® were used for anti-HBsAg, HBsAg, and total anti-HBc detections, respectively. Logistic regression was used to detect associations between variables with an α = 0.05 significance level. Results A total of 836 participants were included in the study; 62.7% were female, 58.9% were aged 15–17 years, 58.7% were Buddhist, 78.4% graduated high school, and 89.1% had no income. The majority were Akha (30.0%), Yao (16.3%), and Hmong (15.8%); 13.2% smoked, 21.5% used alcohol, 13.3% had tattoos, 3.9% experienced drug injection from illegal practitioners, and 35.7% had no history of HBV immunization. The prevalence of HBsAg was 3.0%; anti-HBs, 10.2%; and total anti-HBc, 8.1%. In the multivariate analysis, four variables were found to be significantly associated with HBV infection among the hill tribe youths: age, tribe, work experience, and number of partners. Those aged 18–20 years and 21–24 years had 2.13 times (95%CI = 1.35–3.29) and 2.39 times (95%CI = 1.05–3.90) greater odds of HBV infection, respectively, than those aged 15–17 years. Akha, Lahu, and Hmong youths had 3.12 times (95%CI = 1.07–9.12), 3.71 times (95%CI = 1.21–11.41), and 3.84 times (95%CI = 1.26–11.69) greater odds of HBV infection, respectively, than Lisu youths. Those who had experience working outside of the village had a 1.77 times (95%CI = 1.18–2.98) greater chance of HBV infection than those who did not have experience working outside of the village, and those who had ≥2 partners had a 2.66 times (95%CI = 1.96–3.87) greater chance of HBV infection than those who had no partner. Conclusions Effective HBV prevention programs should be promoted in Akha, Lahu, and Hmong youth populations, particularly to those who have sexual partners, work outside of the village and are aged 18–24 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tawatchai Apidechkul
- Center of Excellence for the Hill tribe Health Research, Mae Fah Laung University, 333 Mo.1 Tasud Subdistrict, Muang District, Chiang Rai Province, 57100, Thailand. .,School of Health Science, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai, Thailand.
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Tziomalos K, Neokosmidis G, Mavromatidis G, Dinas K. Novel insights in the prevention of perinatal transmission of hepatitis B. World J Hepatol 2018; 10:795-798. [PMID: 30533180 PMCID: PMC6280156 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v10.i11.795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2018] [Revised: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 08/27/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Perinatal transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is major contributor to the growing burden of chronic hepatitis B worldwide. Administration of HBV immunoglobulin and HBV vaccination as soon after pregnancy as possible are the mainstay of prevention of perinatal transmission of HBV infection. In women with high viral loads, antiviral prophylaxis also appears to be useful. Lamivudine, telbivudine and tenofovir have been shown to be both safe and effective in this setting but tenofovir is the first-line option due to its low potential for resistance and more favorable safety profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Tziomalos
- First Propedeutic Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, AHEPA Hospital, Thessaloniki 54636, Greece
| | - Georgios Neokosmidis
- First Propedeutic Department of Internal Medicine, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, AHEPA Hospital, Thessaloniki 54636, Greece
| | - Georgios Mavromatidis
- Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Hippokration Hospital, Thessaloniki 54642, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Dinas
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Hippokration Hospital, Thessaloniki 54642, Greece
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