No abstract

Back ground: Blood borne diseases are generally higher in prisons than in the community as prisoners in jails usually come from low social class. Understanding the risk factors of hepatitis B viral (HBV) and hepatitis C viral (HCV) infections among prisoners could help improve their interventions. Objectives: This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of HBV and HCV infections among prisoners and to determine associated risk factors in the prison environment. Methods: A total number of 324 prisoners, who were incarcerated in Shebin Elkom general prison, were included in this study. Questions about personal data and risk factors for blood born infections were asked and all subjects were investigated for hepatitis B core antigen and hepatitis C antibody. Results: Among prisoners, the prevalence of HBV, HCV infections, and HBV/ HCV co-infections were 8.02%, 16.4% and 1.9% respectively. The HBV and HCV infections were significantly associated with history of tattooing, dental procedures and surgery. Using binary logistic regression model, it was shown that imprisonment duration and tattooing were independent risk factors for both HCV and HBV infections. Conclusion: Tattoos, use of shared personal tools and other circumstances that facilitate blood contact, which is especially present in prisons, increase HBV and HCV infection risk among prisoners. These results should promote consideration of routine HBV and HCV screening and behavioral interventions among the incarcerated.