Risk Factors for Hepatitis C Virus Transmission in Nigerian Patients
Author Information
Author(s): Obienu Olive, Nwokediuko Sylvester, Malu Abraham, Lesi Olufunmilayo A.
Primary Institution: University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital
Hypothesis
What are the prevalence and risk factors associated with HCV infection in Nigerians?
Conclusion
The risk factors associated with HCV infection in Nigerian patients are obscure.
Supporting Evidence
- The seroprevalence of anti-HCV was found to be 4.7%.
- None of the evaluated risk factors showed significant association with anti-HCV seropositivity.
- The study was conducted in a general outpatient clinic setting.
- Participants were tested using a third generation enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.
Takeaway
This study looked at how many people in Nigeria have hepatitis C and what might cause it, but they found that the reasons are not clear.
Methodology
A cross-sectional seroprevalence study involving adult patients attending a general outpatient clinic, using a structured questionnaire and testing for anti-HCV.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in self-reported risk factors and exclusion of symptomatic patients.
Limitations
The study did not identify significant risk factors for HCV infection.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 183 males (50.8%) and 177 females (49.2%) aged 19 to 75 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.9526
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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