Abstract

AWARENESS OF HEPATITIS C IN KARACHI, PAKISTAN

Neelam Mallick*, Fakhsheena Anjum, Qurratul-Ain Leghari, Lubna Bashir and Shazia Naz

ABSTRACT

Objective: Hepatitis C is the infection of liver caused by hepatitis C virus. Many people who are infected with this virus have lack of awareness regarding this disease. Methodology: A descriptive study was conducted aimed to analyze the awareness and understanding of hepatitis C virus among pharmacy and medical students of final year in Karachi. A total of n=200 questionnaires were distributed out of which the response rate was 93%. Results: It was observed that majority respondents (96.90%) had heard about hepatitis C from various sources and more than 70% knew that it can be transmitted and can be prevented. 95.20% agreed that blood transfusion of an infected donor can transmit the disease; 78.40% affirmed that the disease can be transmitted by being struck with a needle or sharp instrument that has Hepatitis C-infected blood on it. The questionnaire was found helpful by more than 65% respondents. Conclusion: There are some misconceptions and inadequate information about hepatitis C among the students which can be overcome by educating them thoroughly and making them aware through various modes.

Keywords: Hepatitis C, Knowledge, Awareness, Virus.