Prevalence of Hepatitis Infection in Relation to Education and Occupational Status of Patients Attending Primary Health Care Clinics in Taraba North Senatorial District of Taraba State, Nigeria
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Abstract
Investigations were carried out to ascertain the prevalence of hepatitis A, B and C infections in relation to education and occupational status of patients attending primary health care clinics in Taraba North Senatorial District of Taraba State, Nigeria. Blood Samples were aseptically collected from 383 consented individuals with 128 samples collected from each of the 3 local Government areas (Ardo-Kola, Jalingo and Yorro LGA), samples were examined using rapid qualitative diagnostic tests method to screen for Hepatitis A, B and C viruses by the detection of viral markers in the blood. Risk factors relating to hepatitis were obtained using a questionnaire. Results showed that viral hepatitis A did not show significant statistical association (P>0.05). However seroprevalence of hepatitis B and C surface antigen differed significantly (P<0.05). In this study, those without education (non – literate) were mostly affected with HCV with a percentage value of 13.8%. A higher prevalence of 10.8% for HBV was recorded among those with secondary school education, and highest prevalence of 12.3% was recorded for both HBV and HCV in post – secondary school education. In occupational status, farmers were worst hit with HVC infection (11.6%). It was established from findings of this study that prevalence of viral hepatitis C and B pose serious health concern in the study area. Therefore, emphasis on awareness and immunization by appropriate authorities should be encouraged to reduce spread of infection.