Seroprevalence of Hepatitis B Virus Among individuals aged 15 and above in Bova, Southwest Cameroon: A Community-Based Survey

Abstract

Background: Hepatitis B virus infection is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases. It causes severe damage to the liver there by obstructing its functioning. However, some communities are not aware of its severity. Objective: To assess the seroprevalence of Hepatitis B virus among People of Age 15 Years and above in Bova Community, Southwest Region of Cameroon. Study Design: A descriptive cross-sectional study. Methods: A convenient sampling technique was used to recruit the participants. This research was carried out using self-administered questionnaires. ACRO commercial rapid diagnostic test strips were used to screen for HBsAg. The prevalence, knowledge and factors associated with Hepatitis B analysed using SPSS Package version 26, where p < 0.05was considered significant. Results: A total of 117 participants took part in this study. About 7 were tested positive for the HBsAg using a rapid diagnostic test strip, giving a prevalence of 5.98%. Some participants 43 (36.8%) had adequate knowledge on the complications, modes of transmission and methods of prevention of HBV infection, while 74 (63.2%) on the other hand had inadequate knowledge. None of the risk factors assessed was significantly associated with HBsAg positivity as no statistical significance was recorded for any of the factors. Conclusion: The prevalence of HBsAg was low in the Bova community with most participants having inadequate knowledge on Hepatitis B infection. There is a need of intensifying awareness, education, routine screening and vaccination of the population to better counteract Hepatitis B infection.