[Evaluation of the sorologic pre-selection for the hepatitis B virus marker (total anti-HBc) in candidates to blood donation in the State of Acre, 2002].

The aim of this research was to evaluate previous serum screening for hepatitis B (total anti-HBc) among blood donation candidates, verifying the link between the variables: gender, age, degree of education and native-born. A transverse study with retrospective data carried out on a target population, blood donation candidates from districts of the interior of Acre State, who came to the Acre Hematology and Hemoterapy Center during the period January to December, 2002. The research indicated reactivity in 54.8% of the total anti-HBc among the 673 candidates included. Greater reactivity of total anti-HBc was observed among males, older candidates and those with lower education levels (p<0.005). Previous serum screening for hepatitis B among blood donation candidates is a viable alternative, since it reduces cost and increases transfusional safety. Attracting female donors, youths and those who have higher education levels, would signify potential blood donors for HEMOACRE.