Objective: Migration can lead to a change in the demographic dynamics of
host populations in terms of communicable diseases in destination
countries. This is a potential public health challenge for health
authorities. HBV and HCV infections can lead to the development of
chronic liver diseases, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, and HIV
infection can lead to the development of serious opportunistic diseases.
The aim of this study is to evaluate the seroprevalence of HBV, HCV and
HIV in Syrian refugees and Turkish patients who were evaluated
preoperatively in our hospital. Materials and methods: HBsAg, Anti-HBs,
Anti-HBc, Anti-HCV and Anti-HIV results of Syrian refugee and Turkish
patients who applied to surgical clinics between 2011-2021 were
retrospectively reviewed. Results: The study is comprised of 54446
patients: Turkish patient group (n=20569) and Syrian refugee patient
group (n=33877). The Syrian refugee patients had a significantly higher
HBsAg seropositivity rate and a significantly lower anti-HBs
seropositivity rate than the Turkish patients (p=0.002 and
p<0.001, respectively). The anti-HCV and anti-HIV
seropositivity rates were similar. The annual preoperative prevalance of
HBsAg seropositivity in the Syrian refugee patients tended to
significantly decrease gradually from year 2011 to year 2021
(p<0.001 for ≤30 and p=0.001 for >30 years old).
Conclusion: As a result, although HBV seroprevalence gradually decreases
and HCV and HIV seroprevalence is low; screening, information and
treatment programs should be given due importance because of the serious
disease potential and preventable conditions with precautions. In
addition, preoperative screening of refugee patients coming for major
surgery may be important for the safety of healthcare professionals.
Preoperative HBsAg, Anti-HCV and Anti-HIV Seroprevalence in Patients Admitted to Surgical Clinics of Our Hospital
