Frequency of Occult Hepatitis C Virus Infection in the Spouses of Hepatitis C Virus Positive Patients

Hepatitis C is the major source of cirrhosis, HCC and chronic liver disease one reasons for transplant remain undiagnosed in large number high-risk populations. Objectives: To assess frequency occult hepatitis virus infection spouses positive patients. Place Duration: This Cross-sectional study was held clinic gastroenterology ward Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar from 21st September 2020 till 20th March 2021 after approval hospital ethical committee. Methods: Total 164 patients aged 20 to 60 years both genders who were whose healthy asymptomatic selected this study. Frequency spouse determined. Data analyzed entered using SPSS 23. Results: In analysis, total with mean age 38.6±11.7 years. Among history previous surgery present 41.5%, blood transfusion 47.6%, dental treatment 73.2% drug use 54.9% sampled population. 7.3% spouses. Conclusion: common infection. All individuals presenting OPD should be advised screening. Keywords: Occult, HCV, Intra-spousal transmission, intravenous