Detection of HBV and HCV Seroprevalence using rapid point-of-care tests among earthquake survivors in Southeastern Türkiye.

BACKGROUND

Türkiye has a moderate seroprevalence of HBV infection in its general population, with the Southeastern Anatolia Region exhibiting the highest rate. In contrast, the seroprevalence of HCV infection in Türkiye is low. The study aimed to determine the prevalence of HBV and HCV in the communities affected by the earthquake in Southeastern Türkiye.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study in Southeastern Türkiye in December 2023, eleven months after the 2023 Türkiye-Syria earthquakes. HBsAg and anti-HCV were investigated using rapid screening tests on blood samples from participants selected from 251 containers, where 1,213 people resided.

RESULTS

Out of 251 samples tested, 13 (5.2%) were positive for HBV, while none (0.0%) tested positive for HCV. When comparing the risk factors for HBV infection between the positive and negative groups, earthquake survivors who tested positive for HBsAg were significantly more likely to be male sex (p = 0.018) and to have a family history of HBV (p < 0.001). There were no significant differences (p > 0.05) in age, number of household members, education level, marital status, history of surgery or dental procedure, tattoo-piercing, and history of blood transfusion.

CONCLUSIONS

In Southeastern Türkiye, 5.2% of earthquake survivors tested positive for HBsAg using rapid point-of-care tests. More comprehensive studies are needed to determine the prevalence of HBsAg and anti-HCV in the general population and to identify risk factors.

CLINICAL TRIAL: Not applicable.