Risk Factors For Hepatitis B Virus Infection Research Articles

Study of golgi protein-7 levels associated cirrhosis in patients with infections hepatitis B virus

Background/Aims: Infection with the hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major health concern that can lead to liver failure. The hepatitis B virus (HBV) infects humans in both acute and chronic forms. The transmission of this infectious illness is caused by several risk factors. The goal of this study was to look at the epidemiology and risk factors of HBV infection. HBV infection is associated with cirrhosis and/or hepatocellular cancer (HCC). Golgi protein 73(GP73) in human serum is a useful biomarker in the evaluation of hepatic fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by hepatitis B virus (HBV). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the serum GP73 level's ability to predict HBV infection caused by cirrhosis and/or HCC. Methods: In serum samples, GP73 levels were determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). This study looked at the underlying function of HBV-induced GP73 in controlling cirrhosis and/or HCC development. ELISA was used to assess hepatitis B surface Antigen (HBsAg) and GP73 expression in HBV-related to cirrhosis and/or hepatocellular cancer (HCC). Results: This study included a total of 35 patients with HBsAg by ELISA technique and 18 persons as control group negative to (HBsAg, anti-HBc-Ab, anti-HCV-Ab, HIV).

Factors Associated with the Prevalence of Hepatitis B among Volunteer Blood Donors at Jimma Blood Bank, South Ethiopia.

Background Hepatitis B is a severe, widespread infectious disease of the liver that affects millions of people around the world. It is one of the life-threatening liver infections caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). HBV is the cause of up to 80% of cases of primary liver cancer. Due to the potential risk associated with HBV infection, it is important to study the factors which are associated with the seropositive volunteers. Objective The purpose of this study was to identify factors associated with seropositivity for the hepatitis B virus among volunteers who donated blood at the Jimma Blood Bank in southern Ethiopia. Methods Cross-sectional research was conducted on blood donors who came to the Jimma Blood Bank to donate their blood. Three hundred and fifty-nine volunteer blood donors who arrived at the Jimma Blood Bank were investigated face-to-face in order to collect sociodemographic characteristics and risk factors for HBV infection. The data were analyzed using statistical software SPSS version 20.0. The association between the risk factor for HBV infection and HBV infection was determined using chi-square tests. Result In total, there were 359 participants; their mean age was 22.5, among which 161 (44.8%) were males. Out of 359 volunteers, 13 (3.6%) were seropositive for HBsAg. The test positivity rate among males was 7/198 (3.54%), while the rate among females was 6/161 (3.7%). More than 3/4 of those who tested positive were under the age of 40. Chi-square analysis showed that volunteers whose income was between 12 and 26.84 USD were less likely to have the infectious disease than those whose income was less than 11.84 USD per month (p=0.042). Conclusion The prevalence of HBV was found to be 3.6% among selected volunteers. It was found that, out of 20 volunteers, 13 had infection. Chi-square analysis showed that HBV infection was associated with low monthly income and the use of unsafe therapeutic injections.

Seroprevalence of HBV Infection in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Bangladesh

An estimated 1 million people die each year from HBV infection. This investigation aimed to determine the frequency, distribution, and risk factors for HBV infection in a healthy Bangladeshi community. A cross-sectional study among the general population was conducted in Dhaka Medical College Hospital. A series of 100 patients with the chronic liver disease between 18 to 49 years. Diagnosed based on clinical and biochemical parameters were collected. All medicine units of Dhaka Medical College Hospital have been analyzed regarding the seroprevalence of HBsAg and its correlation with the demographic pattern. Among 100 cases of liver disease, the number of CLD patients was 85, of which 56 (65.88%) were HBsAg positive 29 (34.11%) were HBsAg negative. The number of patients with acute viral hepatitis was 15, of which 4(26.66%) were HBsAg positive, 11(73.33%) were HBsAg negative, and the overall seroprevalence was 60%. The age incidence was more below 40 years (83%) less above the age of 40(17%). Males had higher seropositivity (70.31%) than females (41.66%). People of all ages are susceptible, particularly the farmers (21.66%) and manual laborers (13.33%). Most of the patients belong to the poor (62.79%) and middle class (62.22%). Urban people were more (60.93%) susceptible than rural people (58.33%). Married persons were more (70.27%) prone than unmarried (30.76%). Seroprevalence of HBsAg was more in those people who had a history of blood and blood product transfusion (84.61%). Illiterate persons were more (75%) susceptible than literate (59.37%). Seroprevalence of HBsAg was more in those who had a history of instrumental tooth extraction (68.42%) than those who had not (58.02%). People who cut their beards and mustache in the barbershop were more susceptible (73.91%) than those who got it by themselves (68.29%). Among female persons, those who underwent instrumental delivery were more susceptible than those who delivered their baby by normal vaginal delivery.

The relationship between hepatitis B virus serum DNA, RNA and quantitative hepatitis B surface antigen, and the predictive value for mother-to-child transmission: an observational cohort study.

To explore the relationships between hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA, HBV RNA and hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and to evaluate their predictive value for mother-to-child transmission of HBV. An observational cohort study. First Hospital of Jilin University. HBsAg-positive and hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) -positive pregnant women were recruited. Blood samples were collected from mothers before delivery, and HBV infection of infants was evaluated at 7 months of age. Overall, 268 mothers and 271 infants were enrolled. HBV DNA and HBsAg levels were correlated (rs = 0.699; P < 0.001), and HBV DNA (rs = 0.500; P < 0.001) and HBsAg (rs = 0.372; P < 0.001) were both correlated with HBV RNA. The areas under the curve for HBV DNA, HBsAg and HBV RNA for prediction of infection were 0.69 (95% CI 0.57-0.82), 0.63 (95% CI 0.51-0.76) and 0.65 (95% CI 0.52-0.78), respectively. Higher HBV DNA (odds ratio [OR] 4.77, 95% CI 1.44-15.86), higher HBsAg (OR 4.13, 95% CI 1.12-15.25) and higher HBV RNA (OR 3.19, 95% CI 1.09-9.32) were risk factors for HBV infection. Analysis of the HBV DNA-RNA-HBsAg Score revealed that it was an independent predictive factor for mother-to-child transmission (the OR of Score 3 was 8.81, 95% CI 2.79-27.82). HBV DNA, HBV RNA and HBsAg were correlated in HBeAg-positive pregnant women. HBsAg could be considered as a substitute marker of HBV DNA for HBeAg-positive pregnant women in low-income regions. We should pay special attention to pregnant women with high levels of all three markers. HBsAg could be considered as a substitute marker of HBV DNA for HBeAg-positive pregnant women in low-income regions. Special attention should be given to pregnant women with high levels of all three markers (HBV DNA, HBV RNA and HBsAg).

Risk Factors for Hepatitis B Virus Transmission in Oman.

ObjectivesHepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major public health problem worldwide. The prevalence of HBV is dependent on the modes of transmission. Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection can progress to liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Oman is regarded as an intermediate endemic region and has had a neonatal vaccine against HBV since 1990. However, little research has been conducted regarding risk factors for HBV transmission. Our study aimed to identify the prevalence of major risk factors for acquiring HBV in Oman.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective chart review of all adult Omani patients diagnosed with CHB at two tertiary hospitals in Oman, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital and Armed Forces Hospital, between February 2009 and July 2013. The prevalence of major risk factors was identified by interviewing CHB patients using a standard questionnaire during their follow-up visits to the hepatology clinic at both hospitals. The risk factor frequency was stratified by age, gender, and educational level.ResultsA total of 274 patients were interviewed; 52.2% of the participants were males. The median age for men was 35.9 years and 35.1 years for women, with 75.5% aged 20–39 years old. The antenatal screening was the most common means of identifying HBV infection in females, and pre-blood donation screening was the most common in males. Intra-familial contact with HBV infected persons and behavioral risks such as body piercing (females) and barber shaving (males) were more common than nosocomial risk factors. Knowledge about HBV infection was scarce among our participants. More than half of the participants had a positive family history of HBV infection. There was a significant association between HBV infection and age groups, and educational levels (p < 0.050 and p < 0.001, respectively). Among those who were infected due to intra-familial contact or behavioral risk, there was a significant difference between the two sexes (p < 0.020) and between the three age groups (< 23, 23–28, >28) of HBV positive mothers (33.3%, 14.3%, and 6.6%, respectively; p < 0.050). There was also a statistically significant difference among different educational levels (p < 0.050).ConclusionsDirect contact of infected individuals within a family and exposure to high-risk behaviors such as piercing and barber shaving are the main reported risk factors for HBV infection in Omani patients. Reducing the vertical and horizontal transmission of HBV in Oman could be improved by implementing routine antenatal screening of pregnant women and a greater focus on contact screening, respectively.

English

BACKGROUND Hepatitis B infection is a serious global public health problem and one among the transfusion transmitted infections (TTI). The prevalence of hepatitis varies across the world. There are several risk factors for HBV infection. We wanted to find out the prevalence of HBV infection among the blood donors and its relevant risk factors. METHODS This is a descriptive study conducted among healthy, voluntary and replacement blood donors. A total of 2400 blood donors were selected for the study by systemic random sampling method. Blood samples from these donors were tested for detection of HBsAg through enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to find out prevalence of infection. Various risk factors were compared among the blood donors for positive HBV infection. All statistical data were analysed using SPSS software version 16. RESULTS Total prevalence of HBV infection among the individuals of the study population was 0.45 %. When the risk factors for getting the HBV infection were analysed, unvaccinated blood donors gave a prevalence of 0.6 % (P value 0.001). Prevalence of HBV infection among blood donors with other risk factors were 0.63 % in first time donors (P value 0.04), 7.3 % in replacement blood donors (P value 0.01), 0.97 % in low socioeconomic status (0.03). Where as prevalence of infection among males was 0.49 % and females was 0.26 %. HBV infection among blood donors who were single was 0.34 % compared to married as 0.52 %. Hence the statistical analysis showed P value &gt; 0.05, gender and marital status of the blood donors in the study is not significant for getting HBV infection. CONCLUSIONS Prevalence of HBV infection among blood donors was markedly less compared to prevalence in south India which shows that donor selection criteria was satisfactory to screen the blood donors during donor selection itself. In the study HBV unvaccinated blood donors, first time donors, replacement donors, and donors from low socioeconomic status were found to be significant risk factor to get HBV infection. KEYWORDS Transfusion Transmitted Infection, Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay, HBsAg, Voluntary Blood Donors, Seroprevalence, HBV Vaccine

Breast-Feeding is Not a Risk Factor of Mother-to-Child Transmission of Hepatitis B Virus.

PurposeThis study aims at researching the content of hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA in the breast milk of the mothers carrying HBV and investigating the effects of different feeding methods on mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HBV.MethodsAll infants were voluntarily chosen by their mothers and divided into breast-feeding group and formula-feeding group, which were divided into three subgroups, respectively: HBV-DNA negative (HBV-) group, low viral load (LVL) group and high viral load (HVL) group.ResultsHBV load in colostrum and mature milk were both significantly lower than in serum (P < 0.001). The positive rate of HBV-DNA in colostrum was positively correlated with HBV load in serum, significantly higher than that of the HBV-Group in colostrum in the LVL Group (P < 0.05), and the HVL Group was significantly higher than the LVL Group (P < 0.001). The analysis of risk factors of HBV infection in infants showed that breast-feeding and HBsAg positive in colostrum did not increase the risks of HBV infection of infants (P > 0.05).ConclusionBreast-feeding is safe for infants with HBV-infected mothers who receive active immunization combined with passive immunization. As well, breast-feeding will neither increase the risks of HBV infection for infants nor weaken their immunity to HBV. However, breast-feeding shall be cautiously applied to pregnant women with high viral load.

Prevalence of Hepatitis B and C Infections and Associated Risk Factors in Pars Cohort Study, Southern Iran.

BACKGROUND Hepatitis B and C virus (HBV and HCV) infections rank among the most frequent infectious diseases with a rising worldwide burden. However, their epidemiology and risk factors are understudied in many regions, including Iran. METHODS This study was conducted as part of the Pars Cohort Study (PCS) in Valashahr district, Fars province (2012-2014). Participants received venipuncture for HBsAg and HCV antibody, followed by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing. All infected people and their comparison groups completed a risk assessment questionnaire. RESULTS Overall, 9,269 people participated in the study; the majority were women and of Fars ethnicity. Prevalence of HBsAg and HCV antibody was 2.3% (n = 215) and 0.3% (n = 26), from whom 23% (n = 47) and 13% (n = 3) had indications for treatment, respectively. During follow-up, among HBsAg-positive individuals who were not on treatment, 62% tested negative for HBsAg, and in 2% HBV DNA had risen to treatment levels. Risk factors for HBV infection were illiteracy [OR = 3.43, 95% CI = 1.1, 10.3], and Turk ethnicity compared to Fars [OR = 1.58, 95% CI = 1.1, 2.3]. History of blood transfusion [OR = 2.00, 95% CI = 1.1, 3.5] and history of drug use [OR = 2.85, 95% CI = 1.1, 7.4] were associated with HCV infection, after adjustment. CONCLUSION Further epidemiological studies are needed to identify at-risk populations in different regions. Preventive interventions, including educational programs and transfusion safety strategies, are crucial for reducing the hepatitis burden.

Prevalence and risk factors of hepatitis B virus infection among medical laboratory science students in a Ghanaian tertiary institution

PurposeThis study aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection among medical laboratory science students (MLSSs) in the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS), Ghana.Design/methodology/approachA cross-sectional study design was employed to recruit a total of 178 students into the study. A self-administered questionnaire was used to gather relevant information on risk factors, and a hepatitis B diagnostic test kit was used to test for HBV infection. Descriptive, chi-square test, bivariate and multiple logistic regression statistical analysis were computed. Significance was observed at p &lt; 0.05.FindingsThe prevalence of HBV infection among MLSSs was 6.7%. Torn gloves and splash of blood and body fluids contributed to 43.0% and 28.0% of all the risk factors of HBV infection, respectively. Also, 43.3% of students had received at least one dose of the hepatitis B vaccination. Sharp object-related injury and torn gloves increased the odds of HBV infection, while vaccination decreased the odds of HBV infection.Originality/valueThis study reveals the prevalence of HBV among MLSSs, who are recognized as being among the high-risk student populations aside from student nurses.

A Nationwide Community Survey of Prevalence of Circumcision among Egyptian Children and Risk of Hepatitis B Viral Infection

AIM: To assess prevalence and risk factors of circumcision among Egyptian children and to assess the risk factors for HBV infection among them. METHODS: A nationwide community survey was carried out on 3306 children aged from 9 months to 16 years, of both genders. Data were collected during face to face interviews with the parents and children. All studied children had received HBV vaccination during infancy. Total anti-HBc and HBsAg were assessed by ELISA followed by HBV DNA detection for positive cases by Real-time PCR. RESULTS: Prevalence of circumcision was 92.3% among boys and 29.7% among girls. The percentage of circumcised girls was significantly higher in rural (38.1%) than urban (21.1%), P&lt;0.01 and more in Upper (42.2%) and Lower Egypt (27.6%) compared to Cairo, the Capital (14.1%), P˂0.001. Boys showed significantly higher prevalence of circumcision in urban (94.1%) compared to rural areas (90.1%), P˂ 0.001.The prevalence of HBV breakthrough infection, detected by HBV-DNA, was 14/3306 (0.42%). No significant differences between circumcised and non-circumcised boys and girls regarding the different serological tests of HBV infection, P &gt; 0.05. Using logistic regression analysis, mothers’ illiteracy or having primary and preparatory education carried six times and 2 times risk respectively of having their daughter circumcised compared to higher education, P &lt; 0.01. Living in Upper or Lower Egypt carried three times and 1.5 times risk respectively of having circumcised girl compared to the Capital, P &lt; 0.001. HBV infection among family was the independent risk factor for HBV infection among girls and boys, in addition to frequent medical injection among boys, P &lt; 0.05. CONCLUSION: Circumcision among girls is still a problem especially in Upper Egypt and in rural areas. Child circumcision in Egypt seems not to play a role in HBV infection and intra-familial HBV transmission and frequent medical injection are the most important risk factors.

Association of Routine Hepatitis B Vaccination and Other Effective Factors with Hepatitis B Virus Infection: 25 Years Since the Introduction of National Hepatitis B Vaccination in Iran.

Background: One of the main health problems in the world is hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Vaccination and other factors can affect HBV infection. As various effective factors have been reported in different regions and studies, this study aimed to investigate the association between HBV infection and routine vaccination and other effective factors 25 years since the launch of the national vaccination program in Iran.Methods: This cross-sectional study, conducted in 2017 in Shiraz (Iran), investigated factors such as demographic variables such as gender, education, and occupation, vaccination status, and the potential risk factors for HBV infection. Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and anti-hepatitis B core antibody (HBc Ab) tests were performed to determine HBV infection status. The data were analyzed using R software (version 3.5.2), using multivariate logistic regressions and machine learning methods. The level of significance was considered below 0.05.Results: A total of 2720 individuals were enrolled in the study (194 cases with HBV infection). Based on the logistic regression analyses, factors such as a family history of the disease (OR=2.53, P<0.001), vaccination (OR=0.57, P=0.004), a history of high-risk behaviors (OR=1.48, P=0.022), and occupation (OR=1.80, P=0.035) were significantly associated with HBV infection. Based on the conditional tree method, a family history of infection (P<0.001) and vaccination (P=0.023) were two important factors in classifying individuals for HBV infection.Conclusion: Based on the different methods applied in this study, HBV infection was affected by factors such as a family history of the disease, national HBV vaccination, and occupation. It appears that HBV vaccination, launched by the Iranian Ministry of Health and Medical Education in 1993, has reduced HBV infection.

Prevalence and factors associated with hepatitis B virus infection among household members: a cross-sectional study in Beijing

ABSTRACT HBV prevention and control presents a global public health priority because of the tremendous economic and healthcare burdens involved. This study was designed to investigate the status of HBV epidemics among household members, and to analyze the risk factors of HBV infection in couples and their offspring. A total of 1,035 couples and 541 offspring were included. We sourced the data from a population-based serological survey conducted by the Beijing Center for Disease Prevention and Control in 2014. Chi-square test and multiple logistic were used to assess differences in the prevalence of categorical variables, and identify risk factors for HBV infection and exposure in couples and offspring after controlling for confounding factors. In couples, the prevalence of chronic HBV infection was 4.3% and the prevalence of exposure 32.7%. The prevalence of chronic HBV infection in offspring was 0.9%, and the prevalence of exposure 8.7%. Sharing syringes with others and living with a spouse who was infected or exposed to HBV were associated with a significantly higher risk for transmission of HBV for couples. In offspring, maternal HBV infection was a significant risk factor for HBV exposure. This study provides evidence that having household members infected or exposed to HBV increases the risk of HBV transmission, and in order to achieve better control of HBV infection effective strategies must be established to prevent intra-familial transmission.

Seroprevalence and Factors Associated with Risk of Hepatitis B Virus Infection among Antenatal Attendees in ABUTH Zaria, Northwestern Nigeria.

Nigeria is one of the sub-Saharan African countries within the World Health Organization's (WHO) hyperendemic region for hepatitis B virus infection with prevalence greater than 8%. In this region, mother-to-child transmission is the major route of infection and approximately 90% of newborns of mothers who are seropositive for HBsAg and HBeAg become chronic carriers with a 25% risk of developing chronic liver diseases. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence, and factors associated with risk of hepatitis B virus infection among antenatal attendees in Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), Zaria. A hospital based cross sectional study was conducted among pregnant women Rattending the antenatal booking clinic of ABUTH, Zaria from August 2017 to January 2018. Systematic random sampling was used. An interviewer administered questionnaire was used to obtain data on sociodemographic characteristics and risk factors for HBV infection. Blood samples were collected and tested using the third generation ELISAkit for HBsAg (Monolisa HBsAg ULTRA BIORAD, France) and HBeAg(HBeAg & Ab, DiaPro Diagnostic Bioprobes Milano Italy). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 (IBM USA, 2011). Statistical testing was carried out with chi-squareand level of significance set as P<0.05. The mean age of the respondents was 26 ± 6.1 years, the highest HBV seropositivity occurred in the age group 21-25 years from a total of 192 participants. The seroprevalence of HBV obtained was 15.1%. Only1(3.4%) woman was positive for HBeAg among the 29 HBsAg seropositive women. Past history of unsafe injections was the only risk factor significantly associated with HBV seropositivity (x2= 5.628 p-value= 0.023). The seropositivity of hepatitis B virus was high among pregnant women. Interventions targeted at injection safety will help reduce the risk of infection.

High incidence and persistence of hepatitis B virus infection in individuals receiving HIV care in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

BackgroundHepatitis B virus (HBV), Human Immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and Tuberculosis (TB) are common infections in South Africa. We utilized the opportunity of care provision for HIV-TB co-infected patients to better understand the relationship between these coinfections, determine the magnitude of the problem, and identify risk factors for HBV infection in HIV infected patients with and without TB in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.MethodsThis retrospective cohort analysis was undertaken in 2018. In-care HIV infected patients were included in the analysis. Results from clinical records were analysed to determine the prevalence, incidence, persistence and factors associated with HBsAg positivity in HIV-infected patients with or without TB co-infection.ResultsA total of 4292 HIV-infected patients with a mean age of 34.7 years (SD: 8.8) were included. Based on HBsAg positivity, the prevalence of HBV was 8.5% (363/4292) [95% confidence interval (CI): 7.7–9.3] at baseline and 9.4% (95%CI: 8.6–10.3%) at end of follow-up. The HBV incidence rate was 2.1/100 person-years (p-y). Risk of incident HBV infection was two-fold higher among male patients (HR 2.11; 95% CI: 1.14–3.92), while severe immunosuppression was associated with a greater than two-fold higher risk of persistent infection (adjusted risk ratio (RR) 2.54; 95% CI 1.06–6.14; p = 0.004. Additionally, active TB at enrolment was associated with a two-fold higher risk of incident HBV infection (aHR 2.38; 95% CI: 0.77–7.35).ConclusionThe provision of HIV care and treatment in high HBV burden settings provide a missed opportunity for HBV screening, immunization and care provision.

Update on epidemiology of hepatitis B in a low-endemic European country: There is still much to do.

The latest epidemiological data in Spain were obtained a decade ago and revealed a prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) of 0.7%; hence, updated epidemiological data are necessary. Our aim was to determine the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, and to analyse associated factors and characterize chronic infection. A population-based, cross-sectional study was performed in Spain between July 2015 and April 2017. Participants from three regions were selected using two-stage conglomerate sampling and stratified by age. Anthropometric and demographic data were collected, and blood samples were taken to detect serological markers of HBV infection and to quantify HBV-DNA. The characterization of chronic HBV infection was based on ALT (alanine aminotransferase) values, HBV-DNA levels, and results of transient elastography. The overall prevalence rates of HBsAg and antibody to hepatitis B core antigen (anti-HBc) among 12246 participants aged 20-74years (58.4% females) were 0.6% (95% CI [0.4-0.7]) and 8.2% (7.7-8.7), respectively. The risk factors for HBV infection identified in the multivariate analysis were age, nosocomial risk, and non-Spanish nationality. Moreover, most patients HBsAg positive (76.6%) presented as hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-negative chronic infection (formerly 'inactive carriers') and only 6 (9.4%) HBsAg carriers fulfilled current criteria for treatment. The current HBV burden in Spain remains low but virtually unchanged over the past 15years. Increased efforts are still needed to reach the goal set forth by the World Health Organization (WHO) for HBV elimination by 2030.

Hepatitis B Virus Serological Profile and Associated Risk Factors in Surface Antigen Negative Blood Donors in Nigeria

Background: This cross-sectional study investigated the serological profile, socio-demographic characters and risk factors of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection among HBsAg-negative blood donors at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital (UATH) Gwagwalada and Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital (NAUTH) Nnewi, Nigeria.Methods: Blood samples collected from 176 HBsAg-negative blood donors (96 from UATH and 80 from NAUTH) were screened using a commercially available HBV 5-Panel (CTK Biotech, USA) and anti-HBc IgM ELISA kits. Determination of HBV-DNA was done on 36 HBV positive and 100 negative samples using COBAS Roche Real-time qPCR. Structured questionnaires were used to collate subjects’ socio-demographic variables and risk factors of HBV infection. Results: Out of 176 samples tested, 140 (79.5%) were negative for HBV serologic markers while 36 (20.5%) were positive. The pattern of seropositivity showed that 19 (10.8%) samples were positive for anti-HBs, 9 (5.1%) were positive for anti-HBc, 3 (1.7%) were positive for both anti-HBc & anti-HBs and 5 (2.8%) were positive for anti-HBc IgM. None was positive for HBeAg and anti-HBe markers. Of the 36 HBV positive and 100 negative samples, 15 (41.7%) and 3 (3%) were positive for HBV-DNA respectively p=0.006. Not heard of HBV, no vaccination with HBV vaccines, previous blood transfusion, history of sexually transmitted diseases and visiting commercial barbers were significantly associated with HBV infection. Socio-demographic data showed that male blood donors were more infected with HBV than the females (p=0.284) and age group 26-40 years old was more affected than other age groups (p=0.015). Conclusions: The study revealed the endemicity of HBV infection and recommends that blood donors with critical risk factors be deferred from blood donation to reduce HBV transmission risk in Nigeria. Anti-HBc and anti-HBs markers could be included as screening tests for blood donors since HBV-DNA testing is not readily available and affordable.

NTCP gene polymorphisms and hepatitis B virus infection status in a Ghanaian population

BackgroundSLC10A1 gene codes NTCP, a receptor through which the hepatitis B virus (HBV) gets access into hepatocytes - a stage of the viral cycle necessary for replication. Polymorphism variants of SLC10A1 play roles in HBV infection, viral clearance, treatment outcome, and complications, in diverse ethnic groups and countries. However, no such study has been conducted in the Ghanaian population, a country with HBV endemicity. Therefore, an exploratory study was conducted to investigate the presence of three (3) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the SLC10A1 gene (rs2296651, rs61745930, and rs4646287) and assessed the risk of HBV infection among the Ghanaian population.MethodPolymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method was used to determine the presence of the SNPs among 292 participants comprising 146 HBV infected persons as case-subjects and 146 HBV non-infected persons as control-subjects.ResultsThe minor allele frequency (T) of rs2296651 was present in a significantly high proportion of cases compared with the control group (11.6% vs. 3.1%, p < 0.0001). The homozygote recessive variant of rs61745930 was present in 2.7% of the control group and 5.5% of the case group. Moreover, the minor allele frequencies of rs4646287 were 9.3 and 8.2% among the control and the case group, respectively (p = 0.767). Under the dominant (CC) genetic model of inheritance, rs2296651 was found to be protective of HBV infection [OR = 0.18 (0.07–0.44)], whereas under the co-dominant and additive model, rs2296651 was a potential risk factor for HBV infection [OR = 5.2 (95%CI: 2.1–12.8); 3.5 (95%CI: 1.6–7.6], respectively. Variants of rs61745930 and rs4646287 were not associated with HBV infection (p > 0.05). Polymorphisms in SLC10A1, however, did not show any significant association with HBV infectivity (p > 0.05).ConclusionThe study highlights some polymorphism proof that variants rs2296651, rs61745930, and rs4646287 exist in HBV-infected individuals in Ghana. Although variant rs2296651 was found to be associated with HBV infection, this association warrants more studies. Polymorphisms in SLC10A1 were not associated with HBV infectivity among the Ghanaian population. Further investigation is warranted to assess the offensive role of the relationship between rs2296651 and HBV infectivity.

Pattern and interpretation of hepatitis B virus markers among pregnant women in North East Egypt

Hepatitis B vaccination of newborns (HBV) and surveillance of pregnant women during antenatal care are complementary to prevent mother to child transmission (MTCT) of HBV infection. The aim was to identify the prevalence and pattern of HBV infection in pregnant women born before and after implementing HBV vaccination of newborn in Egypt. The study included 600 women attended antenatal clinic of the Suez Canal University Hospital, Ismailia, Egypt. All were inquired about risk factors of HBV infection, vaccination, and screened for hepatitis markers. HBsAg carriers were tested for HBeAg, HBeAb, ALT, and HBV DNA. Participants were divided into group 1 of 285 (47.5%) vaccinated women ≤ 25 years, and 315 (52.5%) non-vaccinated > 25 years. The prevalence of HBcAg, HBsAg, and HBsAb were 18.3%, 5.0%, and 30.7%. Of the 110 women exposed to infection, 40 (36.4%) cleared infection, 30 (27.2%) were HBsAg carriers, and 40 (36.4%) showed isolated HBcAb. HBsAg carriers were HBeAg negative, HBeAb positive, and HBV-DNA positive and had high ALT. Group 1 had significantly higher frequency of vaccination-related immunity, lower frequency of isolated HBcAb, and susceptibles than group 2 (44.9%, 3.5%, and 38.6% vs. 4.1%, 9.5%, and 75.9% ). The prevalence of HBV exposure and chronic HBsAb carriers in both groups were close (4.9% and 16.5% for group 1 vs. 5.1% and 20% for group 2, p > 0.05). Although the outcomes of HBV infection were favorable in vaccinated group, chronic HBV represents a potential risk for MTCT that necessitates screening during pregnancy in all public health care settings.

Prevalence and risk factors of hepatitis B in Tunisia

Abstract Background Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major public health problem. Data related to epidemiology, distributions and outcomes of VHB infections in Tunisia remains scarce. This work aimed to study the prevalence of HBV infections and their distribution as well as the main risk factors associated to HBV infection. Methods Our study was a cross-sectional household- based study carried out among a representative sample of 22 275 from January 2014 to December 2015. Sampling was based on the National Census of 2014. For data collection, questionnaires were administrated by trained investigator and blood samples were sent to the Reference laboratory for analysis of HBV markers. Results Among 21720 surveyed subjects, 19663 subjects had a laboratory tests and the serological results reached to 19155. Overall prevalence of HBs Ag was 1.7% [1.6-1.9]. Prevalence of HBsAg was significantly higher in men (2.1% against 1.4%; p &amp;lt; 10-3), in age group more than 20 years (2.1% against 0.1% p ≪10-3) and in the Central region (2.3%; p &amp;lt; 10-3). Among the associated risk factors in univariate analysis were chronic dialysis, dental care, surgical intervention, hospitalization, traditional circumcision, scarification and multiple sexual partners. Multivariate analysis showed that male gender, age over 20 years, center and south regions, hospital follow-up of a chronic pathology and having a family member chronic carrier of HBs Ag were the associated risk factors of HBV infection and vaccination was the only protective factor. Conclusions Our study allowed to have a clear estimate of the national prevalence of HBsAg and to classify Tunisia as a country of low endemicity of Hepatitis B. This decline is mainly due to the introduction of vaccination since 1995 and the improvement of the health system. However, more efforts should be paid to reduce nosocomial transmission and traditional high-risk behaviors. Key messages Tunisia has become a country of low endemicity for hepatitis B. This was a result to the introduction of vaccination since 1995.

Risk factors of hepatitis B virus infection between vaccinated and unvaccinated groups among spouses in 2006 and 2014: a cross-sectional study in Beijing

ABSTRACTObjectives: To assess the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection among married individuals and to analyze the associated risk factors of HBV infection in vaccinated and unvaccinated groups in 2006 and 2014.Methods: Information of married individuals aged over 16 y with a clear HBV vaccination status was extracted from the database constructed by the Beijing Center for Disease Prevention and Control from population-based investigation.A structured questionnaire was employed to collect demographic information, vaccinated history, and other related influence information of HBV of participants. Pearson chi-square test, Fisher's test, and logistic regression were used to explore the risk factors of HBV infection.Results: A total of 2874 individuals in 2006 and 1622 individuals in 2014 were enrolled in our study. The mean age of individuals was 49.30 and 46.68 y in 2006 and 2014, respectively. The overall positive rates of HBsAg, anti-HBc, and single anti-HBs were 4.80%, 43.01%, and 5.78% in 2006, which were 4.69%, 38.22%, and 14.18% in 2014, respectively. For vaccinated individuals, age was significantly correlated with anti-HBc in 2014 (40 < age ≤50 versus age ≤30, relative risk (RR) = 3.03, 95% confidence interval (95%CI) = 1.04–8.84). Gender [male versus female, RR = 0.60, 95%CI = 0.36–1.00 (2006); RR = 0.71, 95%CI = 0.52–0.97 (2014)] and age (in 2006) were found to be significantly associated with single anti-HBs.For unvaccinated individuals, HBsAg positivity was statistically significant correlated with gender [RR = 1.47, 95%CI = 1.04–2.06, in 2006], residence (urban versus rural, RR = 0.40, 95%CI = 0.24–0.67, in 2006; RR = 0.58, 95%CI = 0.34–0.99, in 2014), sharing syringes [RR = 3.75, 95%CI = 1.33–10.63 (in 2006); RR = 2.07, 95%CI = 1.26–3.41 (in 2014)], infected wives (RR = 1.97, 95%CI = 1.28–3.05, in 2006), and infected husbands (RR = 2.19, 95%CI = 1.25–3.82, in 2006). Anti-HBc positivity was significantly associated with gender [RR = 1.19, 95%CI = 1.10–1.30 (in 2006); RR = 1.24, 95%CI = 1.09–1.40 (in 2014)], age (in 2006 and 2014), endoscopic medicine treatment [RR = 1.16, 95%CI = 1.03–1.32 (in 2006), RR = 1.21, 95%CI = 1.01–1.45 (in 2014)], sharing syringes (RR = 1.43, 95%CI = 1.25–1.64, in 2014), body piercing (RR = 0.84, 95%CI = 0.75–0.93, in 2006), infected wives (RR = 1.32, 95%CI = 1.18–1.47, in 2006), and infected husbands (RR = 1.39, 95%CI = 1.22–1.59, in 2006). Anti-HBs positivity was associated with age (in 2006 and 2014).Conclusions: Prevalence of HBV infection was lower in 2014 than in 2006 according to HBsAg and anti-HBc positivity. Unvaccinated individuals faced much more risk of HBV infection than those of vaccinated.