Awareness Regarding Sexual Transmission of Hepatitis B and C in Sero-positive Patients

Masooda Fatima, Amber Tufail, Nikhat Ahsan

Abstract

Objective

To find the level of awareness about hepatitis B and hepatitis C transmission through sexual contact among those suffering from these conditions.

Study design

Cross sectional survey.  

Place & Duration of study

Fatima Hospital, Baqai Medical University and Osmania Hospital Karachi, From January 2017 to March 2017.

Methodology

Patients suffering either from hepatitis B and hepatitis C or both, between eighteen to fifteen years were interviewed through questionnaire at the outpatient department.

Results

Among ninety-five patients, only thirty-seven patients were aware of sexual transmission of viruses. Twenty-two out of thirty-seven have been using latex condom to protect their mates from getting infected. Fifteen infected patients with HCV or HBV gave history that their mates were already suffering from the same viral illness.

Conclusions

Most of the study participants were unaware of the fact that hepatitis viruses can be transmitted through sexual contact. Moreover, females were more aware as compared to males regarding sexual transmission of hepatitis B and hepatitis C.

Key words

Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Sexual activity.