Differences in Incidence of Acute Viral Hepatitis between Foreigners and Autochthonous Population in Italy

Abstract

Background: In European countries, the prevalence of HBV and HCV in refugees and migrants tends to reflect the prevalence in their countries of origin. The aim of this study is to analyse acute viral hepatitis cases diagnosed in Italy among foreign citizens and to compare incidence rates in foreigners and Italians. Methods: We analysed the cases of each viral hepatitis type among foreigners. Standardised incidence rates were compared between natives and foreigners. Results: Between 2004 and 2019, 15,872 cases of acute viral hepatitis were notified by 10 Italian regions, 14.8% among foreign citizens. Until 2012, the percentage increased gradually, while a fluctuating trend set in from 2013 onwards; in 2019, 23.9% of cases were foreigners. Data from the SEIEVA surveillance show higher standardised incidence rates of hepatitis A and B among foreign citizens; no significant difference emerged between Italians and foreigners in terms of their hepatitis C incidence. Conclusions: foreign citizens have an increased incidence of hepatitis A and B. Regarding hepatitis A, vaccination is strongly recommended to foreigners travelling to their countries of origin. Screening tests for hepatitis B and C infection should be offered to newly arrived migrants from high prevalence countries, or having specific risk factors.

Cancer in Migrants: A Population-Based Study in Italy

“…Despite not having the information to assess the reason of this sex difference, we may hypothesize that it depends on sociocultural factors, leading to a better management of chronic liver disease (which can be a precursor of cancer) in men than in women, e.g., more frequent clinical visits and medical exams. However, this neoplasm was increased among migrants from Sub-Saharan Africa, a region at high risk for hepatitis B infection and liver cancer [ 25 , 26 ].…”