Evaluation of a Community-Based Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) Infection Screening and Vaccination Program among Peer Groups in Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Abstract

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a significant public health concern in Nigeria, with a high prevalence of chronic infection and liver disease. Community-based interventions, including HBV screening and vaccination programs, can be effective in reducing the burden of HBV infection among high-risk populations. The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a community-based HBV screening and vaccination program among peer groups in Nasarawa State, Nigeria. A quasi-experimental design was used to compare outcomes between an intervention group and a control group. The intervention group received HBV screening and vaccination, while the control group received standard health education. Data were collected at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months after the intervention. The study found a significant difference in knowledge and attitudes towards HBV between the intervention and control groups. The intervention group showed higher knowledge (85%) and more positive attitudes (80%) towards HBV compared to the control group (60% and 55%, respectively). The HBV prevalence was 11%, and the vaccination uptake rate was 80%. The study highlights the need for increased awareness and education about HBV infection, particularly in populations with low knowledge and attitudes towards the disease. The findings also underscore the importance of targeted interventions to improve HBV knowledge and attitudes. Community-based HBV screening and vaccination programs can be effective in reducing the burden of HBV infection among high-risk populations.