Prevalence and Associated Factors of Hepatitis B Virus Infection among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care Clinic at Mulago National Referral Hospital, Uganda
Namirembe Allen
International Health Sciences University, Uganda
Mwambi Bashir
International Health Sciences University, Uganda
Taremwa Ivan Mugisha *
International Health Sciences University, Uganda
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Aims: This study investigated the prevalence, and associated factors of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic at Mulago National Referral Hospital, in Uganda.
Study Design: This was a cross- sectional study.
Place and Duration of Study: This was conducted at Mulago National Referral Hospital, located in Kampala, Uganda. The study was carried out during the months of January to June, 2016.
Methodology: We collected about 4militres of blood samples from 323 assented/ consented female participants. These were analyzed for hepatitis B surface antigen using one step immunochromatographic test. A structured questionnaire was used to explore predisposing factors to HBV. Associated factors of HBV infection were determined using logistic regression analysis.
Results: The survey covered 323 pregnant women. Majority (N=141, 43.7%) were in the age category of 25 to 29 years (range 14–43 years). Their mean parity was 2.2; 106 (32.8%) were nullpara and 179 (55.4%) were in their first trimester. Three participants (0.9%; 95% Confidence Interval: 0.45-1.22) tested positive for hepatitis B surface antigen. The HBV infection was recorded most among the polygamous (100%), as well as multipara (66.7%). There was a statistical association between HBV infection with pregnant women who were in a polygamous relationship (AOR: 5.8; 95%: CI 2.1-10.4), scarification (AOR: 4.2; 95% CI: 3.2-17.9) and shared sharps (AOR: 8.6; 95% CI: 3.7-17.1).
Conclusion: We report a high prevalence of HBV infection, and the pattern tends towards increased perinatal HBV transmission. We identified a knowledge gap pertaining transmission, causation and prevention of HBV infection.
Keywords: Hepatitis B virus, prevalence, associated factor, pregnant women, Uganda