Dynamics of Hepatitis C Virus Seroprevalence: Evaluating Risk Factors among Sex Workers in Pakistan

Abstract

The current study investigates the seroprevalence of the Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) among sex workers in Pakistan, a task made challenging due to social and cultural barriers. Our primary objectives were to gauge the extent of HCV exposure in this marginalized group, identify disparities in seroprevalence between sexes, and examine the association between seropositivity and various demographic and risk factors. We enrolled 1,000 participants, predominantly male (87.7%) and female (12.3%) sex workers. The majority fell within the 26-35 years age category (39.9%). A significant proportion (47.1%) had not received formal education. Overall, HCV antibodies were found in 15% of the participants. Disparities were evident with a seroprevalence of 13% in male sex workers and a significantly higher 31% in female sex workers. HCV seropositivity increased with age, with female sex workers showing a sharper rise. A link between levels of formal education and HCV seroprevalence was observed, with female sex workers consistently exhibiting higher seroprevalence across educational levels. Risk factors such as shaving practices, sharing of blades, surgical history, and other medical exposures were assessed, revealing higher HCV seropositivity rates among those exposed, especially pronounced among female participants. Despite the societal challenges, this research paves the way for future investigations and interventions tailored to this population's unique needs and vulnerabilities.