The Prevalence of Transfusion Transmitted Infections among Blood Donors in Kerman, Iran

Abstract

Background & Aims: Today, an important challenge of the Blood Transfusion Organization is the<br /> preparation, distribution, and monitoring of the appropriate use of blood and blood products. Therefore,<br /> estimation of the prevalence of transfusion transmitted infections (TTIs) and efficiency of appropriate<br /> screening methods is essential. The purpose of the present study was the determination of the prevalence of<br /> human immunodeficiency virus (HIV+), hepatitis B virus (HBs+), and hepatitis C virus (HCV+) infections<br /> and the efficiency ofscreening methods.<br /> Methods: This retrospective, cross-sectional study was performed during the years 2009 to 2013 (a 5-year<br /> period). Tests were performed on blood samples in terms of HIV, HBV, and HCV infections. Information<br /> on the individuals with positive test results was extracted from Blood Transfusion Organization of Kerman<br /> Province, Iran. Then, data (demographic and infections) analysis was conducted using SPSS software and<br /> chi-square test.<br /> Results: Among the 360,722 donors to the Blood Transfusion Organization of Kerman Province within the<br /> 5-year period, 1140 patients were found to be HIV, HBs, and HCV positive. Considering the 95%<br /> confidence interval, the prevalence of HIV+, HBs+, and HCV+ were 0.003, 0.200, and 0.080 percent,<br /> respectively. In this study, the highest incidence was observed in patients older than 35 years (51.1%),<br /> married patients (78.2%), men (92.1%), patients without a diploma (47.5%), and first-time donors (93.5%).<br /> Conclusion: The overall prevalence of TTIs among blood donors of Kerman Province was 0.3%. This<br /> indicates that the prevalence of TTIs is very low which highlights accurate screening before donation. It<br /> should also be noted that advanced and up to date tests based on the World Health Organization (WHO)<br /> guidelines also play a pivotal role in this regard. Finally, the healthiest people in terms of donating healthy<br /> blood were regular donors with a prevalence of 2.3%.