Declining Hepatitis A Seroprevalence in Adults in Catalonia
Author Information
Author(s): Àngela Domínguez, Miquel Bruguera, Pere Plans, Jordi Espuñes, Josep Costa, Antoni Plasencia, Lluis Salleras
Primary Institution: Directorate of Public Health, Generalitat of Catalonia
Hypothesis
What is the prevalence and risk factors of hepatitis A virus infection in the adult population of Catalonia?
Conclusion
The prevalence of hepatitis A virus is decreasing in the adult population of Catalonia, especially in younger age groups.
Supporting Evidence
- The standardized global prevalence of HAV antibodies in 2002 was 68.2%, lower than 77.8% in 1996.
- Prevalence increased with age and was associated with being born outside Catalonia and lower social class.
- The vaccination program for preadolescents started in 1998 may have contributed to the observed decrease in prevalence.
Takeaway
Fewer adults in Catalonia have hepatitis A now than before, especially younger people, likely because of a vaccination program.
Methodology
The study used a competitive immunometric assay to determine HAV antibodies in a representative sample of adults and analyzed sociodemographic variables.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to self-reported sociodemographic data.
Limitations
The study did not include a control community for comparison.
Participant Demographics
Adults aged over 15 years from various municipalities in Catalonia.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p < 0.0001
Confidence Interval
95% CI 1.11–2.76
Statistical Significance
p < 0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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