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Unravelling the Hidden and Undiagnosed Cases of Hepatitis B and C Viruses among Patients Seeking Health Care for Other Viral Illness: A Cross-Sectional Study from Central India

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections pose a significant global public health burden. However, a substantial proportion of individuals remain undiagnosed, forming a hidden reservoir that perpetuates onward transmission. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of undiagnosed HBV and HCV infections within a population presenting for diagnoses unrelated to viral hepatitis. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital in central India. Clinical specimens from patients undergoing diagnostic workup for suspected illnesses other than HBV or HCV were analyzed for HBV and HCV serological markers. Results: Among 1,630 specimens, a concerning prevalence of undiagnosed HBV and HCV infections was identified: 3.1% for HBV and 0.5% for HCV. Notably, a significant proportion of individuals testing positive were unaware of their infection status. Conclusion: This study unveils a concerning reservoir of undiagnosed chronic viral hepatitis within a population not routinely screened for HBV/HCV. These findings highlight the critical need for expanding HBV and HCV screening strategies beyond traditionally high-risk populations or patients with specific clinical presentations.

Source: Indian Journal of Community Medicine

DOI: 10.4103/ijcm.ijcm_209_24