Prevalence of Hepatitis B Among Antenatal Patients: A Seroepidemiological Study

Abstract

Background: The transmission of the hepatitis B virus from mother to infants through vertical transmission is a significant and critical pathway for infection. Often, hepatitis B virus infections in pregnant women remain unnoticed [1]–[3]. The presence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in the bloodstream is the initial serological marker that signals an active HBV infection. This research aims to assess the prevalence of HBsAg among asymptomatic and healthy pregnant women during the antenatal period. Methods: This study was conducted within a hospital setting and spanned one year. A comprehensive analysis involved screening 1200 antenatal patients for the presence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)Results: The study revealed that the prevalence rate of HBsAg stood at 1.04%, with 15 positive cases identified out of the 1200 individuals tested. Notably, the highest prevalence was observed among the 26-30 age group, accounting for 48% of the cases, followed by the 31- 35 age group at 30.9%, and the 20-25 age group at 22.1%.Conclusion: Implementing universal HBV screening for all pregnant women, regardless of risk factors, can effectively decrease both the prevalence and associated risks of HBV infection [4]–[6].