title: [A study of the prevalence of infectious markers in blood donors in rural areas. The case of Kamina hospital].
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The transmission of infectious agents such as the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B (HBV), hepatitis C (HCV) and syphilis is the greatest threat to transfusion recipient safety. The purpose of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of infectious markers with a view to contributing to transfusion safety by selecting donors.
  
  
  METHODS
  A retrospective analysis of the medical records ofblood donors covering the period 1 January to 31 December 2008 was conducted. The global seroprevalence of HIV HBV HCV and syphilis was, respectively, 2.9%, 1.6%, 0.2% and 0.2%. A high seroprevalence was found in the 16-25 and 46-55-year age groups, while there was a high prevalence of syphilis in the 16-25-year age group.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The results confirm the presence of infection by hepatitis B in Kamina and provide an initial insight into the circulation of the hepatitis C virus, the HIV virus and syphilis in the blood donor population.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Rigorous selection and screening procedures among blood donors are needed to ensure transfusion recipient safety.
authors: Université de Kamina, Avenue Malunga Mutombo NO 11- 243 Kamina, Républiqué Démocratique du Congo. michelnzaji@yahoo.fr
authors: Michel Kabamba
authors: MK
authors: Nzaji
authors: Benjamin Kabyla
authors: BK
authors: Ilunga
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D015415:Biomarkers / Q000097:blood; D001782:Blood Donors; D015023:Democratic Republic of the Congo / Q000453:epidemiology; D005260:Female; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000453:epidemiology; D006509:Hepatitis B / Q000453:epidemiology; D006526:Hepatitis C / Q000453:epidemiology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012424:Rural Population; D016036:Seroepidemiologic Studies; D013587:Syphilis / Q000453:epidemiology; D055815:Young Adult
chemical_list: D015415:Biomarkers