Impact of Hepatitis B Vaccine in Italy
Author Information
Author(s): La Torre Giuseppe, Nicolotti Nicola, de Waure Chiara, Chiaradia Giacomina, Specchia Maria Lucia, Mannocci Alice, Ricciardi Walter
Primary Institution: Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Institute of Hygiene, Rome, Italy
Hypothesis
The study aims to evaluate time trends of HBV incidence rates to assess the health impact of compulsory vaccination.
Conclusion
The introduction of compulsory vaccination has contributed to a significant decrease in HBV incidence rates in Italy.
Supporting Evidence
- The joinpoint analysis showed statistically significant decreasing trends in all age groups.
- The incidence rate decreased from 12 per 100,000 to 1.6 per 100,000 from 1985 to 2006.
- Vaccination coverage reached about 95% since 1991.
Takeaway
The hepatitis B vaccine helps reduce the number of people getting sick from hepatitis B in Italy.
Methodology
Data on HBV incidence rates were collected from the SEIEVA system and analyzed using joinpoint regression.
Potential Biases
The use of SEIEVA data may not fully represent the national epidemiological setting.
Limitations
Lack of data before 1985 limits the ability to estimate time trend changes in HBV incidence rates.
Participant Demographics
Data were stratified by age groups: 0–14, 15–24, and ≥25 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI: -59.3; -8.4
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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