The seroprevalence of hepatitisa in adults in Izmir: Prior to introducing vaccine into routine vaccination program [İzmi·r i·li·nde eri·şki·nlerde hepati·t a vi·rüs seroprevalansi: Ruti·n aşilama programina gi·ri·ş öncesi· durum]

Objective: Hepatitis A virus (HAV) is an important public health problem in Turkey. This study was aimed to determine the population-based seroprevalence of HAV in i·zmir. Material and Method: In this cross-sectional study, a representative sample of the population, which was at the age of ?15 years, was selected by using random stratification method. A total of 2156 healthy subjects participated in this present study. Blood specimens were collected for testing anti-HAV IgG, and were examined by using enzymelinked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). A questionnaire was also administered to obtain data regarding demographic characteristics and living conditions of the participants. Results: Anti-HAV IgG positivity was 93.9%. It was found that anti-HAV IgG seropositivity was higher in the subjects with lower income levels, lower education status, at older age, whereas it was lower in younger and single subjects. Conclusion: Improved water and food sanitation resulted in reduced seroprevalence of HAV at younger age groups in i·zmir