The prevalence and probable risk factors of HbsAg positive blood donors in Mazandaran province in 2013

Abstract Background and Objectives HBV, a classic viral Transfusion Transmitted Infection(TTI), is considered an important health and blood safety issue in every society. Prevalence of HBsAg positivity is variable among Iranian blood donors nationwide. This study was performed to determine the frequency of HBsAg positive blood donors and the probable associated risk factors in Mazandaran province in 2013.   Materials and Methods In this cross sectional descriptive study, demographic and donation data were gathered from IBTO data base (NEGARE). HBsAg positive donors were recalled for post test counseling and assessment of probable risk factors. SPSS 16 Chicago, χ2 and T-test were used as tools for data analysis.   Results Among 131950 whole blood donors with mean age of  31.1 ± 9.5, 174(0.13%) proved to be HbsAg positive. Deferral rate was 16.6%. The highest and lowest positivity rates were observed at Babol  and Galoogah, respectively. 95% of positive cases were detected among first time and male donors (p = 0.0001). Older age, lower education level, and first time donation were obtained as demographic risk factors primarily. No significant association between gender and marital status was found. However, post test counseling revealed non-immune dental procedures, high risk sexual contacts, cupping, family history of Hepatitis, hospital admission, tattooing, history of surgery, Intravenous Drug Use (IDU), endoscopic procedures, transfusion history and needle stick as risk factors in HBsAg positive donors.   Conclusions  HbsAg positivity rate in Mazandaran province donors is compatible with the country rate (0.13%). Main risk factors except gender and marital status are almost similar to other studies.