Abstract:
Background: Viral hepatitis is a systemic infection predominantly affecting the liver. It is
estimated that about 2 billion people are infected with HBV worldwide; of which more than 350
million have chronic HBV, and 1. 2 million die from chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis and
hepatocellular carcinoma. The prevalence of Hepatitis B virus and risk factors among admitted
patients has not been well studied in Jimma University.
Objective: To determine prevalence and risk factors of hepatitis B virus infection among
patients admitted to JUSH.
Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 345 patients by using structured
questionnaire with laboratory investigation
Systematic Random sampling was used as a sampling technique. Serum hepatitis B surface
antigen investigation was done for the assessment of hepatitis B infection. Data was entered into
computer and analyzed using SPSS version 20.0 computer software. Associations between
independent and dependent variables were assessed using multivariate logistic regression
analyses. Odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were used as measure of the strength
of association. Data was presented with frequency tables.
Results: The mean age was 42.5±16.94 years with M: F ratio 1.85:1. Eighteen (5.2%) of patients
were HBsAg positive. Having Chronic liver disease and illicit drugs use were statistically
significantly associated with hepatitis B infection (OR =75.25 95% CI, (13.513–419.112), and
(OR =30.56 95% CI, (1.890–494.238), respectively. The common co morbidity were HIV and
Diabetic mellitus each accounting 17(4.9%) patients. Two hundred eighty nine (83.4%) patients
had history of Circumcision. Of these, 279 (96.5%) were at home.
Conclusions: The prevalence of hepatitis B infection was 18(5.2%). Chronic liver disease and
illicit drugs use were statistically significantly associated with hepatitis B infection.
