Indian J Med Res
-
Review Meta Analysis
Burden of hepatitis B in asymptomatic blood donor population of India: A systematic review & meta-analysis.
Background & objectives India has been classified as an intermediate Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) endemic country, and the transmission is believed to mostly occur horizontally. However, community-based data on HBV prevalence among blood donors in India are limited. The burden of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) is unknown in the asymptomatic blood donor population. ⋯ The included studies exhibited a high level of heterogeneity, probably due to different diagnostic approaches followed in different studies. Interpretation & conclusions The burden of hepatitis is profound, impacting public health, economies, and societies in India. The outcome of this study would help address such a burden and develop comprehensive strategies focused on prevention, early diagnosis, treatment, and necessary collaboration to achieve significant reductions in hepatitis-related morbidity and mortality.