Epidemiology of Viral Hepatitis in Saudi Arabia: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Introduction:

Viral hepatitis remains a significant public health challenge in Saudi Arabia, with hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C (HCV) posing major concerns. Despite various interventions, the prevalence of these infections continues to impact the population. This systematic review aimed to assess the epidemiology of viral hepatitis in Saudi Arabia, focusing on the effectiveness of interventional studies and clinical trials conducted in the last 25 years. It sought to synthesize data on the prevalence, distribution, and impact of HBV and HCV, highlighting the effectiveness of various interventions.

Methods:

A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library, focusing on interventional studies and observational cohorts. Inclusion criteria targeted studies on HBV and HCV interventions, such as vaccination programs, public health initiatives, and antiviral treatment trials within Saudi Arabia. Exclusion criteria removed observational studies, reviews, and non-interventional research. Data extraction focused on study design, interventions, and outcomes.

Results:

Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria, demonstrating a range of interventions from vaccination programs and public health campaigns to antiviral treatments. Vaccination programs reported uptake rates exceeding 90%, with HBV prevalence decreasing from 7% to below 1% in vaccinated cohorts (Risk Ratio [RR]: 0.14, 95% CI: 0.05-0.40). Antiviral treatment trials for HCV showed SVR rates above 90%, significantly reducing viral load and risk of chronic liver disease. Public health campaigns improved hepatitis knowledge and behaviors modestly, with a 25% increase in knowledge scores (RR: 0.82, 95% CI: 0.69-0.97).

Conclusions:

This systematic review highlights the significant impact of vaccination programs, antiviral treatments, and educational campaigns on the epidemiology of viral hepatitis in Saudi Arabia. The findings underscore the effectiveness of comprehensive strategies in reducing the prevalence and incidence of HBV and HCV, demonstrating the critical role of multifaceted interventions in public health efforts against viral hepatitis. These insights are pivotal for informing future policies and healthcare strategies aimed at mitigating the burden of viral hepatitis within the Saudi population.