Viral Hepatitis A, B and C in Roraima, Brazilian Amazon: Epidemiological and Serological Profile, 2012-2023.

Abstract

Introduction: Viral hepatitis remains a major global public health challenge, with heterogeneous epidemiological patterns across geographic and socioeconomic contexts. In the Brazilian Amazon, evidence remains limited, particularly regarding long-term trends. This study analyzed the epidemiological and serological profiles of viral hepatitis cases in Roraima, Brazil, from 2012 to 2023.

Methods: A descriptive epidemiological study was conducted using secondary data from confirmed cases of viral hepatitis reported to the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN) in Roraima between 2012 and 2023. Sociodemographic, epidemiological, clinical, and serological variables were analysed using descriptive statistics. Detection rates were calculated per 100,000 inhabitants.

Results: A total of 5416 confirmed cases were identified. Hepatitis B was the predominant aetiology throughout the study period, ranging from 57.2% to 86.5% of cases, followed by hepatitis A (10.3%) and hepatitis C (9.6%). Hepatitis C cases increased over time, reaching more than 30% of notifications in 2021-2023, while hepatitis A declined markedly after 2019. Serological markers showed high frequencies of total anti-HBc and reactive anti-HCV results.

Conclusions: Hepatitis B remains the main etiological agent of viral hepatitis in Roraima, predominantly identified in its chronic phase. The increase in hepatitis C and the decline of hepatitis A highlight the impact of expanded diagnosis and vaccination strategies. Strengthening epidemiological surveillance and improving data quality are essential to guide effective public health interventions.