Prevalence of hepatitis B virus in the Kurram Agency, Pakistan: A 5-year observational study in a war-affected region

Abstract Background Hepatitis B is an inflammatory liver illness caused by the hepatitis B virus. The exact magnitude and extent of the hepatitis B virus in Pakistan is still unknown, but at least 10 million people are estimated to be infected with chronic hepatitis B virus. Objectives The objective of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in the war-affected area since 2009. Study design Observational study. Results A total of 4922 healthy subjects were tested for the detection of HBsAg during 2009–2013, and 14.95% subjects were found to be reactive for HBsAg. The highest seroprevalence (26.0%) of HBsAg was found in those individuals who were less than 35 years of age. Male subjects were more affected (16.6%) than females. The seroprevalence of HBsAg was significantly associated with P Conclusion This study concluded that HBsAg was more prevalent in the war-affected region. The prevalence rate was increasing with time as the highest rate was found in 2013. Present observations will help to provide the background for awareness and bring the increasing levels of hepatitis B to the attention of health professionals and government authorities in order to increase the capacity of the health systems in such troubled areas.