Prevalence of Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) in the Region of Central Punjab

Background. Hepatitis C infection (HCV) continues to be a key contributor to liver cirrhosis and a major global health concern. The purpose of this study was to present a current summary of HCV infection and its genotypic distribution in Punjab, Pakistan's various cities. Methodology. Serum samples were collected from different regions of Central Punjab in collaboration with registered diagnostic laboratories. Early detection of samples was done by Bioline™ HCV kit and then further confirmed by PCR. Genotyping was done by genotype specific primers of HCV designed by Idrees et al. [1]. After completing diagnosis and genotyping, the percentage of male and female affected individuals, the ratio at which people were being affected, the age-frequency of affected individuals, and quantitative data of patients was presented. Results. The 3a genotype of HCV was identified to be more prevalent among the HCV patients in regions of Central Punjab. Females showed a higher prevalence of HCV infection compared to their male counterparts (females 59% and males 41%). People between the ages of 35 and 45 were most vulnerable to HCV infection. Conclusion. The Pakpattan population in the Central Punjab region was most afflicted by HCV, with 87% of cases having the 3a genotype. Patients aged 35 to 45 were also more at risk, as were females.