SEROPREVALENCE OF HEPATITIS B AND C VIRUS AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN ATTENDING ANTENATAL CLINIC AT A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL IN KANO METROPOLIS
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections remain significant public health challenges, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where vertical transmission contributes substantially to the disease burden. Pregnant women represent a critical population for screening and intervention to prevent mother-to-child transmission.This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of HBV and HCV infections among pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic at a tertiary care hospital in Kano Metropolis, Nigeria.A cross-sectional study was conducted involving pregnant women attending antenatal care at the selected tertiary hospital. Blood samples were collected and screened for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and anti-HCV antibodies using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Demographic and clinical data were obtained through structured questionnaires and analyzed using appropriate statistical methods.Out of the total number of pregnant women enrolled, the seroprevalence of HBV was found to be 95% negative based on age, while that of HCV was 5% positive. Co-infection was observed in O+ blood group of 64.2% of the participants. Factors such as age, parity, history of blood transfusion, and previous surgical procedures showed significant association with seropositivity.The findings highlight a moderate-to-high prevalence of HBV and HCV infections among pregnant women in Kano Metropolis. Routine antenatal screening, vaccination for HBV, and targeted public health interventions are essential to reduce the risk of vertical transmission and ensure maternal and fetal health.
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