HCV Prevalence and its Predominant Genotypes in Sargodha Region of Pakistan

Background: Hepatitis C (HCV) is known as one of the most deadly viral infections caused by a virus that belongs to the family Flaviviridae. It usually remains asymptomatic but in chronic cases may leads to liver cirrhosis. Aim: To find out the prevalence of HCV in Sargodha region of Pakistan and to evaluate the frequency distribution of various HCV genotypes among those with HCV infection. Method: Individuals, who visited/admitted at our affiliated medical facilities or our collection centers in Sargodha region of Pakistan, were selected for this study. All individuals had given their proper consents for this study and also filled the form related about their medical/clinical history. Serum samples that were found positive for anti-HCV on ICT screening kits (ACON Laboratories Inc., San Diego, USA) were sent to HealthCare Diagnostics and Research Centre, Lahore for molecular detection of HCV and its genotyping. HCV RNA was extracted and reverse transcribed to synthesis cDNA that was further subjected to nested PCR for detection of HCV viral RNA. The multiplex PCR genotyping for HCV was done only for the samples with detected HCV-RNA. Results were analyzed accordingly. Results: After initial screening for Anti-HCV antibodies, a total of 635 blood serum samples were proceeded for HCV detection through a qualitative nested PCR test. 206(32.44%) samples were found positive for HCV RNA. The prevalence was found higher among females (59.22%) than the males (40.73%). After multiplex PCR for HCV genotyping, it was found that 3a (41%) is the most prevalent HCV genotype following 2a genotype (19%). While the distribution of all other genotypes among those with HCV-RNA was in the following order; 1b (7%) > 1a (4%) > 2b (2%). No significant difference was seen in HCV prevalence regarding any gender or a particular age group. Conclusions: The current study concludes that the HCV prevalence in Sargodha region was recorded higher than the officially stated statistics of Pakistan Government. It is proposed that governmental and non-governmental organization should initiate a mass scale awareness campaign and treatment measures in this region to eradicate this disease so that the misery of people could be cut down.