Hepatitis C virus seroprevalence in the general female population from 8 countries.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a significant global health issue because it is widespread and persistent and can cause serious liver diseases.

Objectives

The aim of this study is to estimate HCV prevalence in women from the general population in different geographical areas worldwide and to assess the potential role of sexual behaviour in the virus transmission.

Study design

Each participating centre recruited a random sample of women from the general population aged from less than 20 to more than 75 years. The study included 8130 women from 8 countries with information on sociodemographic factors, reproductive and sexual behaviour, smoking habit and HPV DNA through individual interviews. A blood sample was also collected to perform serological tests.

SUBMITTER: Quesada P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4466105 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature