Prevalence of hepatitis C virus infection in the general population of northern Spain

Objectives To estimate the prevalence of hepatitis C in a population of nor thern Spain and describe (i) the risk factors associated with infection and (ii) the distribution of genotypes. Design Randomized cross-sectional stud y. Methods A random sample of 1170 people participated in the study. Sociod emographic data were obtained. Antibodies against hepatitis C virus (anti-H CV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotypes were determined. Results Nineteen of 1170(1.6%)subjects were anti-HCV positive (95% CI 1.0-2.6%). In 12 case s (63%), viraemia was present, and the predominant genotype was 1b (80%). A nti-HCV positive subjects were older than anti-HCV negative subjects (55.8 +/- 15.3 v. 44.8 +/- 20.9; P = 0.02). Two peaks of maximum frequency were f ound (in the fourth decade and in those over 60 years). Parenteral drug add iction predominates among those of the fourth decade, while transfusion and surgery predominate in people over 60 years. Three (16%) subjects knew the y were carriers of HCV. Only three variables remained significant in the mu ltivariate model (illegal drug use, P < 0.0001; previous hepatitis, P < 0.0 001; and age, P < 0.02). Conclusions Our study emphasizes the need to devel op health policies that can cope with the foreseeable increases in the prob lems associated with HCV infection in the near future. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 13:477-481 (C) 2001 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.