Hepatitis E in England and Wales
Author Information
Author(s): Lewis Hannah C., Boisson Sophie, Ijaz Samreen, Hewitt Kirsten, Ngui Siew Lin, Boxall Elizabeth, Teo Chong Gee, Morgan Dilys
Primary Institution: Health Protection Agency Centre for Infections, London, United Kingdom
Hypothesis
What is the epidemiology and risk factors for non-travel-associated hepatitis E in England and Wales?
Conclusion
The study found that hepatitis E cases in England and Wales are increasing, with a significant number of cases being non-travel-associated, particularly among older Caucasian men.
Supporting Evidence
- In 2005, 329 cases of acute hepatitis E were confirmed, a significant increase from previous years.
- 33 patients were confirmed to have acquired their infection in England and Wales.
- Older men were overrepresented among indigenous cases, with 70% of indigenous patients over 55 years of age.
Takeaway
Hepatitis E is becoming more common in England and Wales, especially in older men who haven't traveled recently.
Methodology
The study involved analyzing laboratory-confirmed cases of hepatitis E and conducting telephone interviews with patients to identify risk factors.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in case identification due to reliance on travel history for testing.
Limitations
The study may underestimate the number of cases due to clinicians not testing for HEV unless there is a travel history.
Participant Demographics
Most patients were Caucasian men over 55 years of age.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Confidence Interval
95% confidence interval 58–75
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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