Epidemiological characteristics of viral hepatitis in Chongqing during 2004-2010

OBJECTIVE To study the epidemiological characteristics of viral hepatitis in Chongqing, and provide scientific evidences for developing strategies for control measures. METHODS Through descriptive epidemiological methodology, the epidemiological characteristics of 226 936 viral hepatitis cases in Chongqing (2004-2010) were studied.-test was used in ratio comparison. RESULTS In the past seven years, the incidence rate was declined by year with the average of 113.24 / 100 000. Of which, the incidence rate of viral hepatitis B was the highest (97.98 / 100 000), viral hepatitis E (0.56 / 100 000) was the lowest. The proportion of viral hepatitis B was the highest (86.52%) and viral hepatitis E (0.49%) was the lowest. The incidence of viral hepatitis A, B and no-typing was declining year by year, while viral hepatitis C and E was climbing. The difference of incidence rate between males and females was observed (χ2 = 15 628.11, P﹤0.000 1). The viral hepatitis might occur in all kinds of occupation, but most were farmers (43.15%) and students (12.79%). For the age distribution, 20-49 years old group took the majority (65.60% ) , and there were 17 districts with a higher incidence than the average. CONCLUSION Though the reported incidence of viral hepatitis decreases year by year, and the effectiveness of prevention and control for viral hepatitis has achieved enormous success; but the incidence remains high, so the government should further strengthen the monitoring and control of viral hepatitis.