article · European Journal of Medical and Health Research
Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) coinfection accelerates liver disease progression and increases the risk of adverse clinical outcomes, complicating clinical management. Globally, HBV–HCV coinfection is relatively uncommon but clinically significant. In Africa, reported prevalence varies across settings. In Nigeria, hepatitis screening is largely indication-based—typically occurring during antenatal care, blood donation, or in response to clinical suspicion—which may contribute to delayed diagnosis and linkage to care. However, Data on HBV–HCV coinfection and screening participation in Nigeria remain limited. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 852 adults in Nasarawa State, Nigeria, recruited from facility- and community-based settings in Keffi, Lafia, and Akwanga Local Government Areas between May and November, 2025 using multistage sampling. Structured questionnaires collected sociodemographic information and prior hepatitis screening history. Blood samples were tested for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and anti-HCV antibodies using rapid diagnostic tests and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, with polymerase chain reaction confirming coinfection. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The overall prevalence of HBV–HCV coinfection was 1.6%, highest in Keffi (2.5%), with no significant geographic variation. Screening uptake was 42% for HBV and 40% for HCV. Willingness to participate in free screening programs was high (92.4%) across locations. Conclusion: Although HBV–HCV coinfection prevalence was low, screening coverage remains suboptimal, potentially contributing to delayed diagnosis and linkage to care. Strengthening routine hepatitis testing and implementing targeted community-based strategies are essential to improve early detection and support hepatitis elimination efforts in endemic settings.
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DOI: 10.59324/ejmhr.2026.4(2).22
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