Sero-Prevalence of Hepatitis B and C at the General Outpatient Clinic of Abia State University Teaching Hospital, Aba

Abstract

Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the sero-prevalence of HBV and HCV among patients attending general outpatient clinics in Abia State University Teaching Hospital (ABSUTH) Aba. Study Design: Cross sectional study. Place and Duration of Study: Conducted at Abia State University Teaching Hospital (ABSUTH) Aba, from January to April, 2025. Methodology: The blood samples of 100 patients comprising of 50 males and 50 females were randomly collected and screened using rapid serological methods. Data were analysed using SPSS version 25, and associations were tested using Chi-square at a 5% significance level. Results: Overall, HBV and HCV prevalences were 11% and 2%, respectively. The most prevalent age group for HBV infection was 26–35 years old (45.45%, 5/11), whereas the most common age group for HCV infection was 26–45 years old. While HCV was only found in males, HBV was more common in females (63.6%, 7/11) than in males (36.4%, 4/11). Both diseases were substantially correlated with marital status (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The study shows that the studied area has a low prevalence of HCV and a higher-intermediate endemicity of HBV. It is advised that vaccination campaigns be strengthened, screenings be improved, and public awareness be raised in order to lower the risk of transmission.