Hepatitis B and C Virus Prevalence in Rural South Korea
Author Information
Author(s): Shin H R, Kim J Y, Kim J I, Lee D H, Yoo K Y, Lee D S, Franceschi S
Primary Institution: National Cancer Center Research Institute
Hypothesis
Is acupuncture a significant risk factor for hepatitis C virus infection in a rural area of South Korea?
Conclusion
Acupuncture is associated with a higher prevalence of hepatitis C virus infection in South Korea.
Supporting Evidence
- 11.0% of participants tested positive for hepatitis C virus antibodies.
- Acupuncture was associated with a 38% attributable risk for hepatitis C infection.
- Seropositivity for hepatitis C was more than double that of hepatitis B.
Takeaway
This study found that many people in a rural area of South Korea have hepatitis C, and acupuncture might be a big reason why.
Methodology
A cross-sectional study was conducted with 700 adults over 40 years old, assessing hepatitis B and C virus prevalence and risk factors through questionnaires and serological tests.
Potential Biases
Potential overestimation of HCV prevalence due to selective participation of individuals with liver disease concerns.
Limitations
Selection bias may have occurred as only one third of the population participated in the survey.
Participant Demographics
700 adults over 40 years old, including 288 men and 412 women.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 8.0–69.5
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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