Abstract

CABEZAS S, César et al. Hiperendemicidad de Hepatitis viral B y Delta en pueblos indìgenas de la Amazonía Peruana. Rev. perú. med. exp. salud publica [online]. 2006, vol.23, n.2, pp.114-122. ISSN 1726-4634.

Objective: To determine the prevalence of serological markers for viral hepatitis B and delta in indigenous communities in the Peruvian Amazon jungle, as well as their distribution in the different river basins and what are the associated risk factors. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was performed in 837 inhabitants from 37 native communities distributed alongside 12 river basins in the Peruvian Amazon jungle. Epidemiological data were obtained with respect to the presence of viral hepatitis B and delta, and a venous blood sample was taken in order to determine HBsAg, HBeAg, total anti-HBcAg anti-HBcAg IgM, and anti-delta antibodies using an ELISA technique. Results: Average age in the studied population was 22,7 years (range 1-94 years), and 50,/% were male. Previous infection caused by hepatitis B virus was determined in 519 (59,7%) subjects, and a recent infection was detected in 16 (1,8%) subjects. 82 HBsAg carriers were found (9,4%); of them, 18 (21,9%) were positive for HBeAg, and 15 (3,3%) were male. 44,2% of subjects less than ten years old had past history of infection. 39% (32/82) of HBsAg carriers had also hepatitis delta virus infection. The prevalence of HBV was higher in natives (64,3) compared to that in mestizos (50,6%); as well in northern jungle river basins (73%) compared to findings in central and southern areas (42%). HBV infection was associated with masato (liquor made of yucca) use (OR: 4,9; 95% CI: 3,4 - 7,4) and with history of being bitten by bats (OR: 1,7; 95% IC: 1,2 - 2,4). There were no significant differences with respect to sex distribution. Conclusions: Viral hepatitis B and delta is hyperendemic in indigenous and mestizo populations in different river basins in Peruvian Amazon jungle.

Keywords : Prevalence; Hepatitis B; Hepatitis Delta; Indigenous; Amazon region.

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