Sero-Prevalence, Infectivity, and Associated Risk Factors of Hepatitis B Virus Among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care in Sankura Primary Hospital, Silte Zone, Southern Ethiopia, 2021

Abstract

Background: Hepatitis B (HBV) infection causes a major public health problem around the globe. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the Seroprevalence, infectivity, and associated factors of hepatitis B virus infection among pregnant women attending antenatal care in Sankura Primary Hospital, Southern Ethiopia. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was conducted in Sankura Primary Hospital, Southern Ethiopia, from April to June 2020. A total of 338 pregnant women were recruited using systematic random sampling. Sociodemographic and associated risk factors were collected through a structured questionnaire. Blood samples and plasma analysis were performed for the presence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and hepatitis B envelope antigen (HBeAg) using the rapid test strip method. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 20, and P-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The overall Seroprevalence of HBsAg was 11 (3.3%) [95% CI 1.5% - 5.0%], of whom 2 (18.2%) were positive for HBeAg. In multivariate analysis, a history of blood transfusion [AOR=4.8 95% CI (1.25-6.69)] and contact with a family history of the liver [AOR=5.7 95% CI (1.28-7.9)] was found to be significant predictors of HBV infections. Conclusion: The Seroprevalence of HBV infection among pregnant women in the study area was intermediate. Family history of liver disease and blood transfusion were risk factors associated with HBV infection. Hence, improving the screening of blood, increasing awareness about the transmission of HBV infection, and screening pregnant women for HBV infection should be implemented. The government will build efficient service delivery models equipped with an appropriate and well-trained workforce.

Prevalence of hepatitis B virus infection among pregnant women in Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis

“…Among the various viruses that cause hepatitis, HBV is responsible for both acute and chronic infections. It is the most prevalent and severe liver infection globally, leading to significant morbidity and mortality [ 8 , 9 , 60 ]. However, there is limited documentation regarding the national prevalence of hepatitis B infection among pregnant women.…”

“…Several medically necessary viruses pose a significant risk to the well-being of millions of people worldwide [ 3 , 4 , 6 ]. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a substantial global public health issue [ 7 – 9 ] and belongs to the hepadnavirus family, a group of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) viruses [ 2 ]. It primarily affects the liver and can lead to both short-term and long-term health problems [ 8 , 9 ], resulting in significant levels of illness and death [ 7 , 10 – 14 ].…”

“…Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a substantial global public health issue [ 7 – 9 ] and belongs to the hepadnavirus family, a group of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) viruses [ 2 ]. It primarily affects the liver and can lead to both short-term and long-term health problems [ 8 , 9 ], resulting in significant levels of illness and death [ 7 , 10 – 14 ]. World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 254 million people will be living with chronic hepatitis B infection in 2022 [ 15 ].…”

Seroprevalence and Associated Factors of HBV and HCV among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care at Debre Tabor Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study

“…According to our research, participants in the study who had a history of blood transfusions were 14.2 times more likely to be HBsAg seropositive. A related study carried out at the Sankura Primary Hospital in southern Ethiopia showed that the risk of HBV infection increased by 4.8 times [ 34 ]. Another study conducted in Ethiopia also showed that pregnant women with a history of transfusions are 5.71 times more likely to contract HBV [ 35 ].…”