Cross-sectional Study of the Seroprevalence and Risk Factors of Hepatitis C Virus Infection among Adults Attending Primary Health Care in Plateau State, North-central Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a significant public health challenge in Nigeria, contributing heavily to chronic liver disease, including cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. While recent data is emerging, national estimates indicate a varied, often underreported burden, particularly in localized, subnational, and high-risk populations. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) among 461 adults at nine primary healthcare centers in Plateau State, Nigeria, from December 2023 to September 2024. Using interviewer-administered questionnaires and third-generation ELISA for anti-HCV antibodies, polymerase chain reaction for confirmation and analyzed associations with potential risk factors with Chi-square and Fisher’s exact test with p<0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: The overall data revealed high (10.6%) burden Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection among participants with several key socioeconomic and behavioral drivers that significantly linked to higher infection rates (p<0.05). This finding aligns with broader regional data in Nigeria, where some areas, particularly in the North Central region, exhibit double-digit prevalence rates significantly higher than the national average of ~1%. Conclusion: The high HCV prevalence in Plateau state signals a major public health crisis. To meet WHO 2030 elimination targets, the state must urgently implement community-specific screening, intensive risk-reduction education, and more robust referral pathways within the primary healthcare system.