Prevalence Of Hepatitis B Virus Research Articles

Survey of hepatitis B virus infection for liver cancer screening in China: A population-based, cross-sectional study.

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is the primary cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in China. The target population for HCC screening comprises individuals who test positive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). However, current data on the prevalence of HBV infection among individuals who are eligible for HCC screening in China are lacking. We aimed to assess the seroepidemiology of HBV infection among Chinese individuals eligible for HCC screening to provide the latest evidence for appropriate HCC screening strategies in China. Questionnaires including information of sex, age, ethnicity, marital status, educational level, source of drinking water, as well as smoking and alcohol consumption history and serum samples were collected from females aged 45-64 years and males aged 35-64 years in 21 counties from 4 provinces in eastern and central China between 2015 and 2023. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay methods were used to detect the serum HBV marker HBsAg. A total of 603,082 individuals were enrolled, and serum samples were collected for analysis from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2023. The prevalence of HBsAg positive in the study population was 5.23% (31,528/603,082). The prevalence of HBsAg positive was greater in males than in females (5.60% [17,660/315,183] vs. 4.82% [13,868/287,899], χ2=187.52, P<0.0001). The elderly participants exhibited a greater prevalence of HBV infection than younger participants (χ2=41.73, P<0.0001). Birth cohort analysis revealed an overall downward trend in HBV prevalence for both males and females. Individuals born in more recent cohorts exhibited a lower prevalence of HBV infection as compared to those born earlier. The current prevalence of HBV infection remains above 5% in populations eligible for HCC screening in China. Further efforts should be made to increase the accessibility of HCC screening among individuals with HBV infection.

Prevalence and trends of hepatitis B and C virus biomarkers in Zimbabwe: comparative analyses of a nation’s blood-donor surveillance data and meta-analyses of population studies

Background The disproportionate burden of viral hepatitis, particularly hepatitis B virus (HBV) is experienced by people living in low-resourced sub-Saharan Africa, where the estimated prevalence is 3–7 times the global average. Therefore to inform policy, we describe the seroprevalence and trends of hepatitis C (HCV) and HBV biomarkers: anti-HCV antibody and hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), respectively, in Zimbabwe. Methods We analysed data from 181,248 consecutive blood-donors, examined between January 2015 through December 2018. Additionally, we conducted a comprehensive literature review using PubMed and African Journals Online databases, meta-analysing selected papers from Zimbabwe, published between 1970 and 2020, that met specific criteria. Results Overall age-standardized prevalence rate (ASPR) for anti-HCV was 8.67 (95%CI, 0.25–17.09) per 100,000, while that for HBsAg was 2.26 (95%, 1.89–2.63) per 1000 blood-donors, per year. Meta-analysis of 9 studies comprising 220,127 persons tested for anti-HCV revealed ASPR of 0.05% (95% 0%–0.19%) in blood-donors and 1.78% (95%CI, 0.01%–5.55%) in the general population, for an overall pooled ASPR of 0.44 (95%CI, 0.19%–0.76%). 21 studies comprising 291,784 persons tested for HBsAg revealed ASPR of 0.65% (95%CI, 0.31%–1.00%) in blood-donors and 4.31% (95%CI, 1.77%–6.50%) in the general population for an overall pooled ASPR of 4.02% (95%CI, 3.55%–4.48%), after HBV vaccine introduction. HBsAg prevalence was significantly higher before HBV vaccine introductions. Conclusions The prevalence of HBV is decreasing, consistent with the introduction of HBV vaccination, while HCV prevalence is increasing in Zimbabwe. This highlights the need for Improved blood-donor screening and more informative biomarker studies, particularly among repeat donors and children.

Prevalence of HBV Co-infections with HCV and HIV among Blood Donors in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria

Blood is a life-saving resource. Despite the significance of blood transfusion in saving a millions life in emergencies and medical treatment, the safety of blood transfusion faced challenges of transmitting life threatening transfusion transmissible infectious agents such as hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The study was carried out to determine the sero-prevalence of HBV, HCV, HIV and co-infections among blood donors in Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria. A total of five hundred (500) prospective blood donors age ranged from 18 to 60 years attending Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital between May to November, 2019 were recruited for the study. Prospective study was based on questionnaires administered to generate socio-demographics and a 5ml venous blood samples were obtained from each blood donors and the plasma was used for determination of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and anti-HCV using immunoassay rapid test kit (RTK) Diaspot, Belgium and HIV-1 and HIV-2 Determine Alere Medical ,Japan and further tested with enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) Biorad Monolisa, France). The prevalence of HBV, HCV and HIV were 4.8%, 1.2% and 1.8% respectively, while co-infections with HBV/ HIV and HBV/HCV were 0.2% and 0.2% respectively and there was no case of triple infections among the blood donors. The incidence rate was high in HBV followed by HIV and HCV. The use of RTK and ELISA for screening of blood donor for HBsAg, anti HCV and HIV in terms of their sensitively and specificity showed that ELISA is more sensitive than RTK while RTK is more specific than ELISA. From the retrospective study age and gender distribution was not statistically significant (P &gt; 0.05). A significance difference was observed between married blood donors and HIV infection (P &lt; 0.05) and also blood donors with history of blood transfusion showed statistical significant to HBV and HCV (P &lt; 0.05). The prevalence of HBV, HCV and HIV infections among blood donors were found to be statistically associated with smoking, alcohol consumption, surgical operation, multiple sex partners and tattooing (P &lt; 0.05). This study shows that the prevalence of HBV infection in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State ,Nigeria was higher than HCV and HIV, hence there is need to increase public awareness of the socio-cultural practices that contribute to the transmission of infection.

Seroprevalence and co-infection of HBV, HCV, and HIV among patients visiting selected hospitals in Anyigba, Kogi State

ABSTRACT Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) remain a public health challenge globally. This study determined the prevalence and coinfection of HBV, HCV, and HIV among patients visiting Maria Goretti Hospital, Grimard Catholic Hospital, and Good News Hospital Anyigba, Kogi State. In a cross-sectional study, sera samples collected from 400 consenting patients were screened for HBV, HCV, and HIV using commercial immunodiagnostic test kits. Of the 400 subjects, 12 (3.0%), 4 (1.0%), and 16 (4.0%) were infected with HBV, HCV, and HIV, respectively. One participant was co-infected with HCV and HIV, while none was simultaneously infected with HBV and HIV. Participants aged 11–20 years had higher hepatitis B-surface antigenemia, while ages 21–30 years and 31–40 years had higher prevalence of HCV and HIV, respectively. Contrary to HBV and HCV positivity, HIV seropositivity was significantly predicted by the ages of exposure (p = 0.002). Males and females were equally infected with HBV (3.0% each), while more males than females were infected with HCV (1.5%) and HIV (4.6%). However, the difference between the occurrence of viral infections and patients’ sex was not significant (p > 0.05). The single participants were more predisposed to HBV while the married subjects had more HCV and HIV mono-infection. However, neither the occurrence of HBV nor HCV or HIV was significantly predicted by the marital status of the individuals (p > 0.05). Subjects with no formal education had a higher positivity rate of HCV and HIV compared to other levels of education, while the tertiary level of education had higher exposure to HBsAg. Occupationally, students were more predisposed to HBV and HCV, while the unemployed participants were more predisposed to HIV. However, neither education nor the occupation of participants was significantly related to any of the viral infections (p > 0.05). Lack of knowledge of disease prevention significantly influenced the occurrence of HBV (p = 0.02), HCV (p = 0.04), and HIV (p = 0.04). Conclusively, the status of HBV, HCV, and HIV infection is low compared with findings of previous epidemiological studies in the area. However, the continuous circulation of the three viral infections and the high disease occurrence in the poorly informed participants suggest the need for increased public health education about infection control and prevention strategies in the area.

Prospective study of hepatitis B and D epidemiology and risk factors in Romania: A 10-year update.

The global burden of hepatitis D virus (HDV) infection represents a major medical challenge and a public health crisis worldwide. However, there is a lack of accurate data on the epidemiology and risk factors for HDV. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and HDV coinfection causes the most severe form of viral hepatitis, leading to a higher cumulative incidence of liver-related events compared with HBV monoinfection, including the need for liver transplantation and death. To investigate the epidemiology, natural history, risk factors and clinical management of HBV and HDV coinfection in Romanian patients. This prospective study was conducted between January and July 2022 in six tertiary gastroenterology and hepatology referral centres in Romania. All consecutive adults admitted for any gastroenterology diagnosis who were HBV-positive were enrolled. Patients with acute hepatitis or incomplete data were excluded. Of the 25390 individuals who presented with any type of gastroenterology diagnosis during the study period, 963 met the inclusion criteria. Testing for anti-HDV antibodies and HDV RNA was performed for all participants. Demographic and risk factor data were collected by investigators using medical charts and patient questionnaires. All data were stored in an anonymized online database during the study. The prevalence of HBV was 3.8%; among these patients, the prevalence of HBV/HDV coinfection was 33.1%. The median age of the study population was 54.0 years, and it consisted of 55.1% men. A higher prevalence of HBV/HDV coinfection was observed in patients 50-69 years old. Patients with HBV/HDV coinfection were significantly older than those with HBV monoinfection (P = 0.03). Multivariate multiple regression analysis identified female gender (P = 0.0006), imprisonment (P < 0.0001), older age at diagnosis (P = 0.01) and sexual contact with persons with known viral hepatitis (P = 0.0003) as significant risk factors for HDV. This study shows that HDV infection among those with HBV remains endemic in Romania and updates our understanding of HDV epidemiology and associated risk factors. It emphasizes the need for systematic screening for HDV infection and collaborative initiatives for controlling and preventing HBV and HDV infection.

Hepatitis B and hepatitis C virus infections and associated factors among prisoners in Gondar City, Northwest Ethiopia.

Globally, hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) cause considerable morbidity and mortality from their acute and chronic infections. The transmission of the viruses within the prisons is high due to overcrowding, and other risk behaviors such as drug use, and unsafe sexual practices. This study aimed at determining the prevalence and associated factors of HBV and HCV infections among prisoners in Gondar city, Northwest Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Gondar City Prison Center from May 1, 2022, to July 30, 2022. A total of 299 prison inmates were selected by using a systematic random sampling technique. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data on sociodemographic, clinical, behavioral and prison related factors. Five milliliters of blood sample were collected, and the serum was separated from the whole blood. The serum was tested for HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) and anti-HCV antibody by using an Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Data was entered using EpiData version 4.6.0 and exported to SPSS version 20 for analysis. Logistic regression analysis was done to assess the association between the independent variables and HBV and HCV infections. P-values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. The overall seroprevalence of HBV or HCV infections was 10.4%. The seroprevalence of HBV and HCV infections was 7.0% and 4.0%, respectively. It has been demonstrated that having several heterosexual partners, sharing sharp materials in prison, having longer imprisonment, and having a body tattoo are significantly associated with HBV infection. The presence of a body tattoo, a history of surgical procedures, and previous imprisonment are associated risk factors for HCV infection. The prevalence of HBV and HCV were high-intermediate and high, respectively. Therefore, preventative and control initiatives are needed in prisons to decrease the rate of infection and transmission.

Prevalence and Trends of Hepatitis C, Hepatitis B, and Human Immunodeficiency Viruses Over Half a Decade Among Healthy Blood Donors Across Sindh, Pakistan.

Pakistan has a high prevalence of viral hepatitis andthese transfusion-transmitted illnesses (TTIs) pose a major hazard to the health of patients who need blood transfusions, which has a negative impact on the affordability and accessibility of safe blood products in underfunded or less strengthened healthcare systems. While selecting a donor for blood donation, he/she must be healthy enough to donate 500 mL of whole blood, but some of them who were considered the healthiest community were caught to be reactive while getting screened for hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which reflects the true prevalence of these illnesses in this specific population. To study the seroprevalence and trends of HBV, HCV, and HIV in healthy blood donors of Sindh, Pakistan. Blood donated by healthy donors from Sindh, collected from January 2018 to December 2022, was tested by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or chemiluminescent immunoassay (CLIA) at 185 blood centers running under the umbrella of Sindh Blood Transfusion Authority Pakistan (SBTA). The results of serological screening tests for HBV, HCV, and HIV performed from January 2018 to December 2022revealed a continuously increasing trend of all infections. The total number of blood donations in the blood banks across the province showed a progressive increase from 22,822 donors in 2018 to 937,039 donors in 2022, which is 14.21% of the total increase. Among 4,199,195 donors screened from the said period, 3,821,268 (91%) were replacement donors while only 3,77,927 (9%) were voluntary donors. Among them 3,870,598 (92.2%) were males and only 3,285,97 (7.8%) were females, whereas with regardto donors' age, most of them i.e. 2,664,648 (63%), fallin the 29-39 years age group. Overall, from 2018 to 2022, out of a total of 4,199,195 individuals screened, 81,266 (1.94%) tested positive for HCV, 71,688 (1.7%) tested positive for HBV, and 6,711 (0.15%) tested positive for HIV. The total number of positive cases across all three infections was 159,665 (3.80%). The overall average seroprevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), anti-HCV, and anti-HIV among blood donors of 185 blood banks, for five years, was 2.78%, 3.82%, 3.65%, 4.15%, and 4.04%, respectively. The study highlights a concerning increase in the prevalence of HCV, HBV, and HIV among blood donors in Sindh, Pakistan, over the five-year period. It underscores the importance of continued surveillance, prevention, and intervention strategies to address these infections. The recommendations include the promotion of voluntary blood donors and screening of donated blood through a highly sensitive screening assay (nucleic acid testing). There should be centralized blood collection systems having better personnel and equipment, and non-remunerated voluntary blood donations must be strongly encouraged. All these, however, requirestrong political commitment and multisector engagement with comprehensive policy implementation.

Targeted Screening for Viral Hepatitis Among Various Ethnic Groups in Amsterdam, the Netherlands

Background: A significant portion of individuals with hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV) in the Netherlands remain undiagnosed, with a majority from migrant backgrounds. Objectives: This study explored whether targeting HBV/HCV screening among individuals with metabolic risk factors enhances screening efficacy within a diverse ethnic cohort. Methods: Participants from six ethnic backgrounds were enlisted from the population-based, prospective HELIUS study in the Netherlands. Included were participants at elevated risk for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), identified by elevated non-invasive tests (NITs) and/or metabolic risk factors, who were then tested for HBV/HCV. We evaluated screening efficiency, defined as the prevalence of HBV/HCV, by implementing two targeted screening strategies: (1) Testing individuals with elevated NITs; and (2) those with metabolic risk factors. These strategies were compared to a generic testing approach previously utilized in a subset of HELIUS participants. For non-Dutch origin participants, analyses were stratified based on the HBsAg-prevalence in their region of origin: Low (&lt; 2%) and intermediate (2 - 8%). Results: The study included 346 participants at risk for NAFLD, predominantly of Surinamese (n = 180; 45%), Dutch (n = 103; 26%), or Ghanaian (n = 63; 16%) origin. The generic testing approach encompassed 3,050 individuals. Among individuals from low and intermediate HBV-endemic countries, HBsAg-prevalence was 4.7% and 5.3% for those with elevated NITs, 3.9%, and 3.5% for those with metabolic risk factors, and 0.8% and 3.7% for generic testing, respectively. Regarding HCV, two individuals were anti-HCV-positive, with none being HCV-RNA-positive. Conclusions: Targeted screening based on metabolic risk factors or elevated NITs may be more efficient than generic screening among migrants from regions with low HBV prevalence.

Distribution of ABO/Rhesus Blood Groups Among Hepatitis B and C Virus (HBV Ag, HCV Ab) Positive Patients in Anbar Providence, Iraq

This study aimed to retrospectively investigate the prevalence of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infections among blood donors at Anbar Blood Bank in Iraq. The study also explored the correlation between ABO and Rh blood groups with Transfusion-Transmissible Infections (TTIs) and sociodemographic factors and cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted on 100 blood donors at Anbar Blood Bank from March 24, 2023, to June 21, 2023. Inclusion criteria encompassed HBV and HCV-positive patients who provided consent, while exclusion criteria included individuals without HBV and HCV infections. Blood samples (5 mL) were collected, and tests for TTI markers (HBV, HCV) and ABO and Rh blood grouping were performed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and slide method, respectively. Sociodemographic data, TTI marker results, and ABO and Rh blood types were recorded for analysis. Descriptive analysis of sociodemographic data was performed, and a chi-square test was employed to assess the correlation between ABO and Rh blood groups with TTI markers and sociodemographic factors (Age, sex, and living area). Statistical significance was set at P&lt;0.05. The results revealed a male predominance (71%), with the majority aged between 20-30 years (39%) and residing in rural areas (52%). The most common blood group was O+ (39%), while AB- was the least prevalent (0%). In terms of viral infections, 80% of participants were found to be infected with HBs Ag, and 20% with HCV Ab. Notably, blood group O+ exhibited the highest infection rates for both HBs (28%) and HCV (11%), while blood group A- demonstrated the lowest HBs infection rate (3%) and no HCV infection. The study provides valuable insights into the prevalence of HBV and HCV infections among blood donors in Anbar, Iraq. Additionally, correlations between ABO and Rh blood groups, TTI markers, and sociodemographic factors were explored. The findings contribute to the understanding of transfusion safety and may inform blood screening and donor selection protocols.

COVID-19 impact on blood donor characteristics and seroprevalence of transfusion-transmitted infections in southern Thailand between 2018 and 2022

Blood safety is a critical aspect of healthcare systems worldwide involving rigorous screening, testing, and processing protocols to minimize the risk of transfusion-transmitted infections (TTIs). The present study offers a comprehensive assessment of the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and syphilis among blood donors in southern Thailand. It explores the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic on the blood transfusion service, donor characteristics, and the prevalence of TTIs. A retrospective analysis of 65,511 blood donors between 2018 and 2022 was conducted at Songklanagarind Hospital, Thailand. The socio-demographic characteristics of the donors were examined using the Chi-square test to assess the relationship between TTIs serological positivity and donor characteristics. The donors were divided into pre-COVID-19 (2018–2019) and during COVID-19 (2020–2022) groups to evaluate the impacts of COVID-19. The study found that HBV had the highest overall prevalence at 243 per hundred thousand (pht), followed by syphilis (118 pht), HCV (32 pht), and HIV (31 pht) over a five-year period of study. After COVID-19, the prevalence of HBV decreased by 21.8%; HCV decreased by 2.1%; HIV increased by 36.4%; and syphilis increased by 9.2%. The socio-demographic characteristics and TTIs prevalence were significantly altered over time. This study provides insights into blood donor characteristics and TTIs prevalence in southern Thailand, highlighting the understanding of the impact of COVID-19 on the spread of TTIs.

Prevalence of Hepatitis B Viral Infection in Pregnant Women at the Suhum Municipality, Ghana

Background. Global prevalence of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection was estimated between 257 and 291 million since 2020, posing a great public health challenge. In Africa, an estimated 60 million cases of HBV were reported in the same year. Pregnant women might be susceptible to HBV infection dependent on their level of awareness and knowledge about the causes, transmission, and prevention of HBV. The aim of the study was to assess the awareness and prevalence of HBV infection and prolonged bleeding risk among pregnant women at the Suhum Municipality of Ghana. Methods. The study was a cross-sectional design involving pregnant women who were sampled following their visit to the antenatal unit at the Suhum Government Hospital. Sociodemographics including history of HBV screening and vaccinations were obtained from consented individuals using pretested questionnaires. Also, venous blood samples were obtained for platelet count, whereas bleeding time assay was performed to assess functional platelet disorders. Results. Hepatitis B prevalence was 4.4%, with 14.1% prevalence of mild thrombocytopenia and 1.5% prevalence of prolonged bleeding time. Pregnant women who had tertiary education and previous screening were about 8 times (AOR=7.78, 95% CI: 1.50-40.50) and 14 times (AOR=13.66, 95% CI: 1.72-108.75) more likely to have knowledge of hepatitis B than those without tertiary education and previous screening, respectively. Conclusion. The prevalence of HBV was 4.4%. Education status and previous screening were associated with demonstration of knowledge about HBV; therefore, intensification of education and screening are recommended.

Seroprevalence of Hepatitis B and C Viruses and Their Associated Factors Among Military Personnel at Military Camps in Central Gondar, Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Globally, viral hepatitis is a leading cause of death and is highly prevalent in Ethiopia. Military personnel are more vulnerable to hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections, and there are no data on such populations in the study area. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of HBV and HCV infections and their associated factors among military personnel in military camps in Central Gondar, Ethiopia. This institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted with 277 military personnel from April to August 2022 at military camps in Central Gondar, Ethiopia. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select the study participants. Sociodemographic and other relevant data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Five milliliters of venous blood were collected using a vacutainer tube and tested for hepatitis B surface antigens and anti-hepatitis C virus antibodies using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Data were analyzed using STATA version 14 software and logistic regression models were used to determine the association between HBV/HCV infection and risk factors. Out of 277 participants, the overall seroprevalence of HBV and HCV infections was 19 (6.9%) and 9 (3.3%), respectively. The rate of HBV and HCV co-infection was 2 (0.7%). Having multiple sexual partners (p = 0.048), frequent alcohol use (p = 0.034), hospitalization (p = 0.014), and history of receiving injections from traditional practitioners (p = 0.040) were significant predictors of HBV infection. In contrast, a history of blood transfusion (p = 0.048) and sexually transmitted infections (p = 0.039) were significant risk factors for HCV infection. An intermediate prevalence of HBV and HCV infections was observed among the military personnel. Continuous screening, adherence to healthcare service guidelines, and strengthening of vaccination are crucial for preventing HBV and HCV infections.

Chronic hepatitis B and occult infection in chemotherapy patients - evaluation in oncology and hemato-oncology settings: The CHOICE study.

Reactivation of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a well-known risk that can occur spontaneously or following immunosuppressive therapies, including cancer chemotherapy. HBV reactivation can cause significant morbidity and even mortality, which are preventable if at-risk individuals are identified through screening and started on antiviral prophylaxis. To determine the prevalence of chronic HBV (CHB) and occult HBV infection (OBI) among oncology and hematology-oncology patients undergoing chemotherapy. In this observational study, the prevalence of CHB and OBI was assessed among patients receiving chemotherapy. Serological markers of HBV infection [hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)/anti-hepatitis B core antigen (HBc)] were evaluated for all patients. HBV DNA levels were assessed in those who tested negative for HBsAg but positive for total anti-HBc. The prevalence of CHB in the study cohort was determined to be 2.3% [95% confidence interval (95%CI): 1.0-4.2]. Additionally, the prevalence of OBI among the study participants was found to be 0.8% (95%CI: 0.2-2.3). The findings of this study highlight the importance of screening for hepatitis B infection in oncology and hematology-oncology patients undergoing chemotherapy. Identifying individuals with CHB and OBI is crucial for implementing appropriate antiviral prophylaxis to prevent the reactivation of HBV infection, which can lead to increased morbidity and mortality.

Towards elimination of chronic viral hepatitis in French Polynesia: results from a national population-based survey

In French Polynesia, hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection appears as a major risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which detection rate in the Austral archipelago is among the highest in the world. Through a nationally representative cross-sectional survey of the adult population, this study aimed at assessing the prevalence of HBV, but also hepatitis C virus (HCV), and hepatitis delta virus (HDV). A total of 1942 blood samples from participants aged 18-69 years were tested for anti-HBc, anti-HBs, HBsAg, anti-HCV IgG, and HDV RNA. Complete genome sequencing of detected HBV strains was performed. Among participants, 315/1834, 582/1834, 33/1834, 0/1857, and 0/33 tested positive for anti-HBc, anti-HBs, HBsAg, anti-HCV IgG, and HDV RNA, respectively. The population prevalence of HBsAg was estimated at 1.0% (95% CI: 0.6-1.7). All HBsAg carriers were born in French Polynesia before vaccination at birth became mandatory. In multivariate analyses, identified factors associated with HBsAg carriage included: the archipelago of residence (p<0.0001), age (p<0.0001), and education level (p=0.0077). HBV genotypes B, C, and F were detected. French Polynesia has a low endemicity level of HBV and its population may be considered at low risk for HCV and HDV infection. However, prevalence of HBsAg was found concerning in Austral (3.8%; 95% CI: 1.9-7.5) and Marquesas (6.5%; 95% CI: 3.8-11) archipelagoes. In the Austral archipelago, the presence of genotype C may account for the elevated rate of HCC. Our findings warrant more efforts to improve access to detection, prevention and care to people born before the systematic vaccination policy application, and residing in higher-risk areas, to achieve HBV elimination in French Polynesia. Research Delegation of French Polynesia.

HBV in Italian Women's Jail: An Underestimated Problem?

There is little information regarding the hepatitis B virus (HBV), vaccination status, and hepatitis B exposure in Italian women's jails. We aimed to describe the HBV exposure and HBs antibody (anti-HBs) protection levels in female prisoners. A retrospective multicentric study was performed in Italian prisons from 2021 to 2023. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to identify risk factors for HBc antibody (anti-HBc) seropositivity and non-protective anti-HBs titer. We included 156 patients. The median age was 41.0 (IQR 34.0-48.0). Of the studied subjects, 31 (19.9%) had anti-HBc positive titer. Two women were HBsAg positive. In the multivariate analysis, older age [OR 1.06 (CI 1.01-1.11), p = 0.011], North-Eastern European [OR 11.67 (3.29-41.30), p < 0.001] and African origin [OR 6.92 (CI 1.51-31.60), p = 0.013], and drug use [OR 6.55 (CI 1.96-21.9), p = 0.002] were risk factors for HBV exposure. Thirty-seven (32%) women had no history of HBV vaccination. Forty-four (38%) had an anti-HBs non-protective titer. In the multivariate analysis, North-Eastern European origin [OR 4.55 (CI 1.19-17.50), p = 0.027] was associated with unprotective anti-HBs titer. Our results show both the low prevalence of HBV and protection in female prisoners. Age, North-Eastern European and African origin, and drug use have a role in exposure risk to HBV.

Factors associated with knowledge and awareness of Hepatitis B in individuals of Chinese descent: Results from a mass point of care testing and outreach campaign in Toronto, Canada.

Migrants from hepatitis B virus (HBV) endemic regions are at high risk of having chronic infection. Despite this, HBV knowledge and awareness programming, and low-barrier screening methods such as point of care (POC) testing, among this group have yet to become routine. We conducted a mass HBV POC screening and knowledge and awareness campaign for individuals of Chinese descent in Toronto, Canada. POC screening was administered, then participants completed a knowledge questionnaire. Logistic regression identified associations between demographic factors and participants' level of HBV knowledge. From 2015 to 2018, 33 outreach events resulted in 891 individuals completing testing and the knowledge questionnaire. Individuals averaged 64.4 years old. Most, 62% (N = 552), were female, and 73.6% (N = 656) have been in Canada for <30 years. The average questionnaire score was 70.7% correct, with 65.2% (N = 581) demonstrating a high level of HBV knowledge. Post-secondary education (OR: 2.19, 95% CI: 1.41, 3.39), income of $50,000 to <$75,000 (OR: 2.74, 95% CI: 1.39, 5.43), and having familial history of HBV (OR: 1.72, 95% CI: 1.06, 2.78) were associated with high knowledge. The observed prevalence of HBV was 1.5%, with 13 individuals testing positive on the POC test and confirmatory laboratory testing. Improving knowledge and awareness of HBV is critical to empowering people, especially migrants who experience barriers to care, to pursue vaccination, testing, and treatment. Combining knowledge outreach and POC test campaigns, enabled discussion and screening for HBV with large numbers of people, and can be tailored for optimal effectiveness for specific groups.

The prevalence of hepatitis B in Chinese general population from 2018 to 2022: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundWithin China, Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains widely prevalent and one of the major public health problems. There have been only two previous estimates of its prevalence at the population level in China, with the latest survey conducted in 2006. A meta-analysis estimated the prevalence of HBV within China between 2013 and 2017 as 7%. This review provides an updated estimate of HBV prevalence in China from 2018 to 2022.MethodsSystematic searches of literature from January 1, 2018 to December 25, 2022 were conducted in four international databases (Medline, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews) and three Chinese databases (CNKI, CBM, and WanFang data). Random-effects meta-analyses were conducted to calculate the pooled HBV prevalence with 95% confidence intervals in the overall population and subgroups. Publication bias, heterogeneity between studies, and study quality were assessed.ResultsTwenty-five articles were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of HBV infection in the Chinese general population from 2018 to 2022 was 3% (95%CI: 2–4%). The prevalence of HBV infection was similar between males and females (both 3%), while rural areas had a higher prevalence than urban areas (3% vs 2%). The highest prevalence of HBV was reported in the eastern provinces (4, 95%CI: 2–6%). The HBV prevalence of people aged ≥18 years old (6, 95%CI: 4–8%) was higher than people aged < 18 years old (0, 95%CI: 0–1%).ConclusionCompared to the previous meta-analysis prevalence in 2013–2017, the updated meta-analysis estimated prevalence of HBV infection (3%) from 2018 to 2020 showed a decreasing trend, suggesting China had moved into a lower intermediate epidemic area (2–5%). However, the prevalence of HBV in rural areas and eastern regions was still higher than the national average. People aged ≥18 years old showed a higher HBV prevalence. HBV prevention should be prioritized in the highest-prevalence areas and high-risk populations. Due to heterogeneity in data collection methods among studies, there remains a need for systematic surveillance of nationwide HBV prevalence.

Hepatitis B virus infection on Kwajalein Atoll, Marshall Islands: a seroprevalence, knowledge and attitudes study.

A study was conducted to determine the seroprevalence of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection among children and their mothers on Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands two decades after routine vaccination was introduced in the 1990s. Mothers' knowledge and attitudes towards HBV disease and vaccination were also assessed. Results of a national seroprevalence survey conducted in 2016-2017 and antenatal records were used to determine the prevalence of HBV seropositivity in children aged 6-8years and their biological mothers. The associations between demographic, social and vaccination-related factors and seropositivity were explored using Fisher's exact tests. HBV seroprevalence was 0.3% in children and 6.8% in their mothers (during pregnancy). Coverage of timely HBV vaccination was 90.3% for the birth dose and was significantly associated with factors related to place of residence (P<0.001), place of birth (P<0.001) and number of antenatal visits (P<0.001). Maternal attitudes towards infant vaccination and antenatal screening were largely positive (95.8% and 96.7%, respectively) despite low vaccination rates (20.9%) among mothers. Knowledge levels were low for disease complications, treatment and transmission. Prevalence of HBV in children and mothers residing on Kwajalein Atoll in 2016-2017 was lower than the national average for the Marshall Islands. Timely birth dose administration appears to have been effective in preventing mother-to-child transmission of HBV in this setting and should be promoted in remote settings where antiviral therapy is not available. Provision of out-of-cold-chain HBV vaccines should be considered to improve access in remote settings.

Serodiagnosis of Hepatitis B Surface Antigen and Anti Hepatitis C Virus among Hemodialysis Patients in Khartoum State- Sudan

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a hepatotropic virus that can establish a persistent and chronic infection in humans through immune energy. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a hepatotropic RNA virus that causes progressive liver damage. In hemodialysis (HD), blood is removed from the patient with needles and plastic tubing and pumped past the dialysis membrane. Poisons and toxins cross the dialysis membrane into the dialysate, which is then discarded, and the blood is returned to the patient. Objectives: The study aimed to detect HBsAg and anti-HCV in HD patients and the control group. Methods: A retrospective case-control, a hospital-based study was carried out on 110 participants 60 HD patients and 50 control, 60 males and 50 females, ages between 20 -39 years 27 participants and ages between 40-59 years 32 participants and ages more than 60 51 participants, ELISA method was used to detect HBsAg and anti-HCV in HD patients and control sera, the study was carried out during the period from August 2021 to January 2022. Results: In this study, the overall prevalence of HBV infection among HD patients and the control group was 26.3% (2/110), and among HD patients was 45 % (27/60), while it was 4% (2/50) among the control group any non – HD patient, co-patient, hospital staff and the overall prevalence of HCV was 1,8 % (2/110) and it was 3.3% (2/60) among the HD patients, 0% (0/50) among the control group. There was a significant association between HBV infection and HD (P value 0.019). Conclusions: The prevalence of HBV among HD patients was very high (45%). The results emphasize the need to carry out proactive tasks for early diagnosis by using highly sensitive and specific methods such as PCR technique, treatment of infected individuals, and vaccinating those with non-protective anti-HB antibodies to reduce morbidity and mortality in HD patients.

Country-Specific Screening, Prevalence, and Immunity Rates for Hepatitis B Infection in a Large US Safety-Net System.

Country- and region-specific estimates of hepatitis B virus (HBV) screening, prevalence, and immunity rates are provided for 202 868 adults from 174 unique countries in a large urban safety-net system. Of these, 41.8% (95% confidence interval, 41.5%-42.0%) were screened, with age-adjusted HBV prevalence of 0.9% (.9%-1.0%); 55.3% (54.9%-55.7%) had immunity testing, and 32.4% (31.9%-33.0%) were immune.