Known and probable risk factors for hepatitis C infection: A case series in north-eastern Poland

AIM: To describe the risk profile of patients in hospital with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection of Poland. METHOD: Using a structured questionnaire, all patients with confirmed HCV infection were interviewed about the risk factors. RESULTS: Among the 250 patients studied, transfusion before 1993 was the primary risk factor in 26%, intravenous drug use setting in 9% and occupational exposure in health-care in 9%. Women were more likely to have a history of occupational exposure or transfusion before 1993 and less likely to undergo minor surgery. Known nosocomial risk factors (transfusions after 1992, minor surgery) for 14% and further 9% were occupationally acquired infections. CONCLUSION: A careful history investigation can identify a known or probable risk factor for HCV acquisition in 59% of patients with HCV infection. Preventive activities in Poland should focus on infection control measures in health-care setting. (C) 2006 The WJG Press. All rights reserved.