Prevalence of major transfusion transmitted viral infections (HCV, HBV, HIV) in Shiraz blood donors from 2000 to 2005

Background and ObjectivesEvaluation of the prevalence trend of blood transfusion-transmitted infections is essential in monitoring blood supply safety, determining effectiveness of donor screening, and estimating residual risk of blood transfusion-transmitted infections. Materials and MethodsIn this cross-sectional survey, data from blood donors who referred to Shiraz Blood Transfusion Center from 2000 till the end of 2005 were collected. Then, we reviewed the number of HBs cases detected by ELISA test, HIV by Western Blot test, and HCV by ELISA. Then, the demographic status, the incidence of hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV in the population of blood donors during these years were evaluated.ResultsDuring 2000 to 2005, 507531 donors embarked on blood donation in Fars Blood Transfusion Center. The prevalence rate of HIV between 1381 to 1385 were 0.019%, 0.008%, 0.007%, and 0.009%, the prevalence rate of HBs 0.57%, 0.52%, 0.53%, and 0.53%, and prevalence of HCV 0.19%, 0.13%, 0.09%, and 0.16% respectively. The prevalence rate of HIV grew in 2000 (p<0.05); it then decreased and stayed stable afterwards. The prevalence rate of HCV had no significant change over time. The prevalence rate of HBs was lower in 2005 (p<0.05). The prevalence rates of HBs, HCV, and HIV were higher among first-time, male, and married blood donors (p<0.05). The prevalence rates of HBs, HCV, and HIV infection were not significantly correlated with age of blood donors(p>0.05).ConclusionsIf we notice the prevalence rate of transfusion transmitted viral infections in blood donors, we understand that the incidence rate of this infection in Shiraz blood donors is less than its rate among normal population and does not change over time; it may be attributed to effective donor screening procedures and the low prevalence rate of transfusion transmitted viral infections in donor population. If we compare the prevalence rate of transfusion transmitted viral infections in our blood donors with that of the other countries, we understand that the prevalence rate of transfusion transmitted viral infections in our country is low. It shows the safety of our blood supply.