Prevalence and Risk Factors of Hepatitis B among the Population at Algamosi Locality, Gezira State, Sudan

Abstract

Background: The local population in developing countries is at higher risk of contracting hepatitis B (HBV) due to some of the factors they practice which promote its establishment and distribution within their communities and may constitute a burden for them. Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with the hepatitis B virus in populations of the Algamosi region, Gezira State, central Sudan. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 492 people, populations of the Algamosi region, Gezira state in central Sudan. A questionnaire was used to collect information on socio-demographic factors, transmission, and prevention of hepatitis B infections. As well, blood samples were taken from each participant, and serum was used for rapid tests for HBsAg. Positive samples were then tested by the ELISA method for confirmation. Data were obtained using SPSS version 21 and a P value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The prevalence of hepatitis B was 16.10% and was higher in men than in women (05.7 - 1.00). People aged 31 to 45 had the highest prevalence of 27 (20,600%) for HBV infection. There was a significant association between HBV and age groups (X2 = 7.816 and P value = 0.05). This study also found that there was a significant association between viral hepatitis and knowledge about transmission and prevention (P value < 0.005). This study showed a high prevalence of the hepatitis B virus in the local community of Algamosi in Sudan. So the prevalence of the hepatitis B virus was found to increase with age, Also, the previous infection with jaundice was identified among the risk factors contributing to the spread of hepatitis B, where the prevalence rate reached (2.7%) P value = 0.001. Social knowledge about hepatitis B was very high. Conclusion: Although most people who live in developing countries are at high risk for transmission of hepatitis B, this indicates the need to implement the screening policy and integrate it with other health services and create awareness such as proper treatment and surveillance for hepatitis infection in all nations.