Authors: Matthew Igwe Nwali, Nneka Immaculata Nwali, Joseph Agboeze, John Okafor EGEDE, Upo Emeri Mba, Uchenna Nelson Nwaedu, Cosmas Ayadiuno Nnonyelu.
Aim: Blood donation and transfusion is very common in Obstetrics and Gynecology practice with large volumes transfused daily. Many diseases can be transmitted through blood transfusion and vertically from mother to her unborn child including Human T-cell lymphoma/Leukemia virus type 1(HMTLV-1). This study was done in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Southeast Nigeria where screening for this virus is not done routinely. To determine the cost-effectiveness of routine screening of pregnant women and blood donors for the virus.
Methods: This was a prospective, cross-sectional study. Two hundred and fifety participants were recruited 150 donors and 100 pregnant. Social demographic characteristics and history of blood donation were noted. Data were collated, tabulated and analyzed using simple percentages and tables.
Results: The 250 participants recruited had zero prevalence of HMTLV-1 antibody. Among the 150 donors, 10 were females and 93.3% had donated while only 4% had received blood in the past. Among the pregnant women 10% had received while 6% had donated. The mean age was 28.2 ± 9.1 (between 18 – 55 years). The mean parity for the female participants was 2.8 ± 1.2 (p1 – 6).
Conclusion: The zero prevalence in this study may make its inclusion in routine screening non-cost effective.
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