In order to identify the risk factors for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections, a case-control
study was conducted from September 1993 to April 1994. HCV infection was confirmed by the
second generation of recombinant immunoblot assay. Sixty-four cases and 128 controls matched
for age and sex with a 1:2 ratio of cases to controls were enrolled. Exposure data were obtained
from all participants by self-administered questionnaire and the odds ratios of possible risk
factors of HCV infection analysed. Sixty-four cases consisted of forty-two patients with chronic
hepatitis, nine with cirrhosis, one with hepatocellular carcinoma, and twelve with normal liver
function. History of acute hepatitis (OR 3.9) and transfusion (OR 2.4) were associated with an
increased risk of HCV infection. Operation, acupuncture, endoscopy, tooth extraction, tattooing,
ear piercing, needle sharing and family history of hepatitis were not associated with an increased
risk of HCV infection. In conclusion, transfusion remains the major route of transmission of HCV
in Korea.
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