Dr. Muzaffar Ali Sh
Introduction: In one of the Rural Districts (Gujranwala) of Punjab, Hepatitis was seen more frequently than other surrounding areas. Aims & Objectives: A study was designed to know the incidence of Hepatitis & to create awareness in the public against this deadly disease. Procedure: A randomized study of general public between the age of 12 - 65 years was carried out to see the incidence of disease. Results: Total number of screened was 1915. The patients with anti HCV positive were 451 (24%). The patients with HBSAg were 82 (4.3%) and both B&C were 0.6%. Liver Enzymes were raised in approximately 20% of the patients. Most of the patients were asymptomatic. Inference: From the above screening study of Hepatitis B & Hepatitis C, the results of Hepatitis C positive 24% in the general population in an endemic area are really alarming & some emergency measures has to taken to control spread of such a devastating & horrible disease. Conclusion: Special measures for Health Education should be taken to create awareness in general public. High-risk groups should be taken care of through a special effort of Social Workers & Other NGOs guided by Government agencies.