Prevalence And Risk Factors Of Hepatitis B Virus Among Pregnant Women At International Hospital Kampala

Abstract

Background Hepatitis B infection is viral infection that targets the liver cells, causing liver damage and subsequently disease (WHO, 2015). The disease is transmitted through coming into contact with body fluid(s) of an infected person such as blood, semen, amniotic fluid, vaginal fluid and secretions from mucous membranes. This can occur during sexual intercourse, sharing sharp objects like needles and razors and also vertically from mother to child during childbirth (Gedefaw et al., 2015). Objectives of the study To determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of hepatitis B virus infection among pregnant women at International hospital Kampala.

Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 145 pregnant women in International Hospital Kampala researcher administered questionnaire and laboratory analysis of blood samples for HBV infection was done.

Results. The test results found out that 1% of the respondents tested positive for HBV. All the respondents (100%) had ever heard about a disease called hepatitis B disease. All the respondents knew that hepatitis B a viral disease. Majority (83.4%) of the respondents agreed that contact with infected blood or body fluids is one mode of transmission of HBV. 2.1 % of the respondents agreed that they have ever shared a needle with friends while taking the drugs.

Conclusions. The prevalence of HBV was found to be at 1% among pregnant mothers at International Hospital Kampala. Majority of the women had studied up to university and were much aware of HBV. The respondents had good level of knowledge in regard to HBV.

Recommendations. The hospital should continue to health educate the pregnant mothers about hepatitis B disease. Vaccination should be done to all the medical staff. Ensuring implementation of infection control measures.