Incidence of Hepatitis B and C in Industrial Areas of Sheikhupura and Kasur

There is strong evidence that humoral and cell mediated immune responses are involved in the clearance of viruses including hepatitis virus B and C, on the other hand exposure to industrial pollutants, including heavy metals and organic chemicals, are known to cause immunosuppression. Present study was conducted to find any association between the industrial pollution and incidence of hepatitis B and C. Three population groups, two from industrially polluted areas and one from non-industrial area, were included for this study. A total of 300 subjects in age group between 10-49 years were selected. Their blood samples were screened for hepatitis B and C antigen with ELISA kits. No significant association could be observed in industrial pollution and incidence rate of hepatitis B and C. Relative risk for HCV was found to be slightly higher in residents of polluted area but the difference was not statistically significant.