HBsAG and anti-HCV prevalence among villages in an endemic township: A community study in Tzukuan, Kaohsiung

Objectives: The authors have earlier reported on Tzukuan, in Kaohsiung County, as an endemic area of the hepatitis C virus (HCV). We further conducted a screening survey in the township for estimating the varitation of prevalence of Hepatitis B surface Antigen 'HBsAg'and anti-HCV among villages in the township. Methods: A total of 2909 (30.2%) residents aged 45 years or older who lived in Tzukuan responded to our invitation to a screening for HBsAg and anti-HCV. Results: Age-, and sex- standardized prevalence rates of HBsAg and anti-HCV for all participants were 12.8% and 41.6%, respectively, which included 4.6% with dual infection. Prevalence of HBsAg significantly decreased with age, while anti-HCV significantly increased with age. Sex was not related to the prevalence of HBsAg or anti-HCV. The prevalence of anti-HCV was higher in coastal areas (61.4%) than in inland areas (29.1%). Chukang village had the highest prevalence of anti-HCV (67.9%) and Tzuho village had the lowest (23%). Conclusion: This survey reveals apparent variation in anti-HCV prevalence rates among villages in a township. The information we obtained can serve in HCV prevention and control in this area as well as in other endemic areas.