CLINICAL AND EPIDEMIOLOGICAL PROFILE OF HEPATITIS B AND C PATIENTS IN A MUNICIPALITY IN SOUTHERN BRAZIL

Abstract

Context: Hepatitis B and C are common diseases with significant public health impacts. Hepatitis B is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, classifying it as a sexually transmitted infection, while hepatitis C is mainly transmitted through blood. Without early and proper treatment, these infections can lead to complications such as hepatocellular carcinoma and liver cirrhosis. Objective: To determine the clinical-epidemiological profile of hepatitis B and C patients treated at a specialized health center in a municipality in southern Santa Catarina from 2016 to 2020. Methods: A retrospective observational study with a cross-sectional design. The analysis included 123 patients with hepatitis B and/or C who received care at the Specialized Health Care Center (CAES) in Tubarão, SC, between 2016 and 2020. Results: Hepatitis C was the most prevalent, accounting for 79.7% of cases, with males being the most affected in both infections. The chronic form was observed in 92% of hepatitis B cases and 92.9% of hepatitis C cases. Only a minority of patients had complete vaccination against HBV. Conclusion: A detailed understanding of the behavior of hepatitis B and C and the affected population helps identify at-risk patients, contributing to early diagnosis and treatment, and reducing disease complications.