Prevalence and risk factors of hepatitis B virus infection among medical laboratory science students in a Ghanaian tertiary institution. Issue 3 (11th March 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tawiah, Philip Apraku; Abaka-Yawson, Albert; Effah, Emmanuel Sintim; Arhin-Wiredu, Kingsley; Oppong, Kwabena
• Is Part Of: Journal of health research. Volume 36:Issue 3(2022)
• Page Start: 442
• Page End: 452
• Publication Date: 2021-03-11
• Subjects: Hepatitis B -- Health-care workers -- Health-care students -- Health facilities -- Ghana; Public health -- Periodicals; Public health -- Asia -- Periodicals; 362.1
• DOI: 10.1108/JHR-06-2020-0191
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0857-4421

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection among medical laboratory science students (MLSSs) in the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS), Ghana. Design/methodology/approach: A cross-sectional study design was employed to recruit a total of 178 students into the study. A self-administered questionnaire was used to gather relevant information on risk factors, and a hepatitis B diagnostic test kit was used to test for HBV infection. Descriptive, chi-square test, bivariate and multiple logistic regression statistical analysis were computed. Significance was observed at p < 0.05. Findings: The prevalence of HBV infection among MLSSs was 6.7%. Torn gloves and splash of blood and body fluids contributed to 43.0% and 28.0% of all the risk factors of HBV infection, respectively. Also, 43.3% of students had received at least one dose of the hepatitis B vaccination. Sharp object-related injury and torn gloves increased the odds of HBV infection, while vaccination decreased the odds of HBV infection. Originality/value: This study reveals the prevalence of HBV among MLSSs, who are recognized as being among the high-risk student populations aside from student nurses.