Determination of Seroprevalence of Hepatitis B Virus Infection and Associated Risk Factors Among Adult Patients at A Tertiary Hospital in Ebonyi State

Abstract

Background
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major global health problem with an estimated burden of 290 million infection. It is associated with high mortality and morbidity especially the chronic liver disease. The study aimed at determining the seroprevalence of hepatitis B viral infections in adult patients and associated risk factors in Alex-Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital in Ebonyi State.
Method
It was a cross-sectional study done in Alex-Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki. The study was conducted among patients that presented in general out-patient clinics between January, 2024 to December, 2024.
Result
Three hundred and twenty were enrolled into the study. There were 54% males and 46% females that participated in the study. The seroprevalence of hepatitis B infection was reported as 10.3% and more males 12.7% (22/172) were seropositive. Participants with previous history of multiple sexual partners and local circumcision were more likely to have positive hepatitis B surface antigen with P-value less than 0.001.
Conclusion
The study revealed high seroprevalence among adult patients attending out-patient clinic in AEFUTHA. It also highlighted multiple sexual partner and genital mutilation as associated risk factors therefore appropriate behavioral change is needed.