PREVALENCE OF HEPATITIS B AMONG POPULATIONS IN NORTH BIHAR: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
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Keywords
Hepatitis B Virus, HBsAg, Prevalence, Risk Factors, North Bihar, Cross-Sectional Study, Healthcare Workers, Blood Transfusion, Public Health
Abstract
Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a significant public health concern in India, with limited data available for North Bihar. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of HBV infection and identify associated risk factors among the population in North Bihar.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 6311 participants aged 18 years and above in selected districts of North Bihar. Sociodemographic data and information on potential risk factors were collected using a structured questionnaire. HBsAg testing was performed using rapid diagnostic tests, with confirmatory ELISA for a subset of samples.
Results: The overall HBsAg prevalence was 1.8% (95% CI: 1.47-2.13). Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified several independent predictors of HBV infection. Male gender (AOR: 1.62, 95% CI: 1.04-2.53), age 31-45 years (AOR: 1.58, 95% CI: 1.02-2.45), lack of formal education (AOR: 2.45, 95% CI: 1.38-4.35), and healthcare occupation (AOR: 3.18, 95% CI: 1.76-5.74) were significant sociodemographic factors. History of blood transfusion (AOR: 4.32, 95% CI: 2.41-7.74), surgery (AOR: 1.96, 95% CI: 1.26-3.05), multiple sexual partners (AOR: 2.68, 95% CI: 1.37-5.24), and family history of hepatitis (AOR: 3.41, 95% CI: 1.84-6.32) emerged as significant risk factors. The prevalence was lower than previously reported figures for many parts of India, potentially reflecting successful prevention efforts or regional variations in HBV epidemiology.
Conclusion: The intermediate prevalence of HBV infection in North Bihar highlights the need for targeted interventions. Strengthening healthcare infrastructure, improving occupational safety for healthcare workers, and implementing comprehensive community awareness programs are crucial for reducing the burden of HBV in this region.
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Animesh Kumar
Tutor, Department of Microbiology, GMC, Bettiah, Bihar
Nusrat Perween
Tutor, Department of Microbiology, GMC, Bettiah, Bihar
Nandlal Kumar
Tutor, Department of Microbiology, GMC, Bettiah, Bihar
Chandra Shekhar Jha
Assistant Professor, Department of Microbiology, GMC, Bettiah, Bihar