Psychiatria pre prax 4/2010

Prevalence of viral hepatitis C and B in clients of resocialization facilities in Slovakia

Chronic HCV infection is the leading cause of chronic liver disease, including cirrhosis and cancer, and the most common indication for liver transplantation. In industrialised countries, injecting drug use is currently the most important risk factor for infection with hepatitis C, resulting in high prevalence of hepatitis C among injecting drug users. Resocialization institutions are established for drug users, which provide reintegration and rehabilitation after completion of treatment in medical institution. The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of hepatitis C and B among clients of 10 resocialization facilities in Slovakia. The results documented high prevalence of hepatitis C (64 %) and low prevalence of hepatitis B (0,6 %) is influenced by vaccination directed program against hepatitis B virus in this risk group.

Keywords: hepatitis C, hepatitis B, prevalence, resocialization facilities.