Evaluating hepatitis B screening, prevalence, vaccination coverage, and linkage to care in Abuja, Nigeria: insights from a cross-sectional study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major global health threat, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa, where Nigeria has a prevalence exceeding 8%. Despite the availability of effective vaccines, inadequate coverage and lack of awareness have resulted in high rates of chronic infections and HBV-attributable liver disease. The study aimed to raise awareness of HBV, enroll participants for HBV screening, determine HBV prevalence across various communities, vaccinate negative cases and link positive cases to care.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in 16 districts of Abuja from April 2022 to March 2023. Participants aged 18 and over were screened for hepatitis B, and those testing negative were offered on-site vaccination. Blood samples were collected and tested using

SUBMITTER: Akabuike OM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11657572 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature