Reduction in prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen among intravenous drug users in Tehran drop-in-centers

Background: Despite the availability of an effective vaccine for more than three decades, HBV (hepatitis B virus) continues to infect many people worldwide, particularly in developing countries of Asia. In older people at higher risk of infection, high prevalence of HBV may exist, particularly among intravenous drug users (IDUs). This group is among groups at higher risk of infection as they share needles for drug injection. Objectives: The current study aimed to determine the prevalence of HBsAg (hepatitis B antigen) among intravenous drug users in drop-in-centers (DICs) of Tehran in 2013. Patients and Methods: This cross sectional study included 129 intravenous drug users recruited from DICs in Tehran in 2013. Socio-demographic characteristics and associated risk factors were recorded during the sample collection. Their serum samples were tested for the presence of HBsAg by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: HBsAg was detected in 4 of 129 subjects, giving an overall prevalence of 3.1. No significant correlation was observed between HBsAg positivity and socio-demographic and associated risk factors. Conclusions: Undoubtedly, IDUs are one of the most high-risk groups exposed to infection; so the priority of preventive and educational programs would be beneficial for this high-risk group. Screening IDUs at the national level and statistical analysis for HBV in the larger sample size is recommended. © 2013, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciencces