Antibodies to Hepatitis B core antigen prevalence study in Kazakhstan.

Anti-HBcore prevalence in Kazakhstan (17.2%) compared with other countries (Croatia 7%, France 7%, Germany 9%, Iran 16%, Malaysia 20%, respectively) remains above average. Given the prevalence of HBV and risk factors, it is recommended to include an additional anti-HBcore marker in the mandatory screening of donated blood in the Kazakhstan Republic and improve preventive measures to prevent HBV transmission by blood transfusions.