Abstract

Objective: To investigate the epidemiological features and demographic characteristics of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infected patients and to estimate the province-specific incidence rates of HBV infection in Iran. Methods: This retrospective study was conducted using the data provided by the National Hepatitis Registry database. According to the data registered at the database during 2010-2012, 28 227 persons were reported with confirmed positive HBV test results. Data were analyzed by SPSS 18 software using descriptive statistics to calculate the province-specific incidence of HBV infection according to age, sex and region of residence of the target populations. Results: The incidence rate of HBV infection was lower than 15 per 100 000 inhabitants in four provinces. This rate was between 15/100 000-25/100 000 in 17 provinces and higher than 25/100 000 population in five provinces. The incidence rate of HBV infection was highest in Yazd and lowest in Gilan Provinces. In most provinces, the incidence rate of hepatitis B among men was higher than women. In all provinces, the incidence of hepatitis B was lowest in the under 10-year-old group and highest in the 60-69-year-old group. Conclusions: Considering the large number of population at risk, hepatitis B prevention policies should focus on persons aged 20-49 years, with an emphasis on health education programs regarding the routes of exposure to HBV as well as vaccination of the high risk groups. © 2015 Asian Pacific Tropical Medicine Press.