Seroprevalence of Hepatitis B Virus using HBV-5 Rapid Panel Test and Associated Factors amongst Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care in Garoua, North-Cameroon

Abstract

Background: In Cameroon, prevalence of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) is high and varies from different places in general population and vulnerable persons such as pregnant women. We performed this survey to determine seroprevalence of HBV using HBV-5 Rapid panel test and associated factors amongst pregnant women attending antenatal care (ANC) in Garoua. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted from February, 15th to April, 15th, 2016 amongst 102 pregnant women attending ANC in city of Garoua. Data were obtained using a structured questionnaire by interview. The blood samples were collected and tested by the immuno-chromatographic panel method (OnSite HBV-5 Rapid Panel Test) for the detection of HBV biomarkers. Statistical analyses were performed by EPI InfoTM version 7 software, with P<0.05 considered significant. Results: Overall seroprevalence of HBV (HBsAg) was 10.78% (11/102) and the other HBV biomarkers were 15.68% (16/102), 9.80 (10/102) and 26.47% (27/102) for anti-HBsAb, anti-HBeAb and total anti-HBcAb respectively. According to general information, marital status (P=0.001) was statistically associated with HBsAg seroprevalence. Bivariate analysis logistic regression recorded that, scarification (OR= 30.10; 95% CI 6.55-138.15; P=0.00000) and piercing or tattoo (OR= 11.80; 95% CI 2.77-50.18; P=0.00008) were statistically associated with seroprevalence of HBsAg. Conclusion: Seroprevalence of HBV biomarkers is high amongst pregnant women attending ANC in Garoua. Associated factors such as scarification and piercing or tattoo were associated with HBV infection. The awareness of pregnant women about vaccination in routine against HBV were necessary to prevent the transmission of Mother-to-Child Transmission (MTCT).