Abstract

Objective: Pregnant refugees in Turkey are at high risk for infectious diseases due to limited access to healthcare services and suboptimal hygiene conditions. This study aims to assess the risks posed by infections, particularly toxoplasmosis, Rubella, hepatitis, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and cytomegalovirus (CMV), during pregnancy. These pathogens have adverse effects on maternal and fetal health during gestation, and early diagnosis and management are crucial.

Methods: This retrospective study analyzes serological test results from pregnant refugees who presented at University of Health Sciences Turkey, İzmir Tepecik Education and Research Hospital between March 1, 2018, and March 1, 2020. Tests evaluated included anti-Toxoplasma immunoglobulin (Ig)M, anti-Toxoplasma IgG, anti-hepatitis C virus (HCV), hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), anti-HIV, anti-HBs, anti-Rubella IgM, anti-Rubella IgG, anti-CMV IgM, and anti-CMV IgG. Seroprevalence rates were analyzed annually.

Results: Of the pregnant participants, 94.7% were Syrian, and 5.3% were Afghan. Seroprevalence rates for Toxoplasma IgG, Rubella IgG, and CMV IgG were found to be 51.3%, 85.3%, and 57.6%, respectively. No significant variation in test results was observed over the years. The positive rates for anti-HCV, HBsAg, and anti-Rubella IgM were low; chi-square analysis was limited by low cell frequencies, affecting statistical power.

Conclusion: This study reveals a high prevalence of infections such as toxoplasmosis, Rubella, hepatitis B, and CMV among pregnant refugees in Turkey. Expanding screening and vaccination programs for refugee women is recommended to mitigate infection risks. Improving access to healthcare services and regular screenings is crucial to curbing the spread of these infections.