Prevalence of Hepatitis B and C in the Patients Undergoing Cataract Surgery at Eye Camps

Abstract

Purpose: To assess the prevalence of hepatitis B and hepatitis C viral infection in the patients undergoing elective eye surgery.

Material and Method: All patients who were selected for cataract surgery were included in the study. After history, examination and Investigations patients were screened for Hepatitis B and C virus antibody with chromatography (Kit) method. All the details were recorded on preformed proforma and data was compiled and analyzed for age and sex mean values. Pearson’s correlation coefficients were calculated to assess the prevalence of Hepatitis B and C in general population undergoing cataract surgery.

Results: Four hundred and thirty seven patients were operated on for cataract surgery at eye camps. Mean age of patients was 60 years, 191 (43.70%) were male and 246 (56.29%) female. Out of them 108 patients were found to be positive for Hepatitis B and C (24.7%,) antibody. Hepatitis B accounted for 19 cases (4.34%) and Hepatitis C for 89 cases (20.36%).

Conclusion: The prevalence rate of Hepatitis B and C antibody in our population is alarming, not only for the general population but also for the general health care personals. Steps need to be taken to abort this preventable disease.