Gut Liver.  2012 Apr;6(2):235-240.

The Prevalence and Risk Factors for Hepatitis B Surface Ag Positivity in Pregnant Women in Eastern Region of Ghana

• Cho Y
• Bonsu G
• Akoto-Ampaw A
• Nkrumah-Mills G
• Nimo JJ
• Park JK
• Ki M

Abstract

BACKGROUND/AIMS
The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and risk factors for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) positivity in pregnant Ghanaian women.
METHODS
We surveyed 1,500 pregnant women in Eastern region of Ghana. Direct interviews were performed by trained nurses using standardized questionnaires. Pregnant women were screened for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis B infections, hemoglobin levels and sickle cell anemia as part of the antenatal check-up.
RESULTS
The overall HBsAg positive rate was 10.6%, which varied among districts (13.8% for Kwahu West, 12.4% for Upper Manya, and 2.2% for Yilo Krobo). HBsAg positivity was significantly higher in women with depression (odds ratio [OR], 3.74; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.13 to 6.57) and HIV (OR, 2.03; 95% CI, 1.06 to 3.89). Age, education, and gravidity were not related to HBsAg positivity. Anti-hepatitis B immunoglobulin for newborns of HBsAg-positive mothers is not provided at birth in public health facilities in Ghana. However, hepatitis B vaccination is provided as part of a routine vaccination schedule starting at 6 weeks of age.
CONCLUSIONS
To prevent mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis B, screening tests for HBsAg in pregnant women and hepatitis B vaccination of newborns immediately after birth need to be performed in this region.

Keyword

Hepatitis B; Ghana; Pregnant women; Risk factors; Prevalence

MeSH Terms

Anemia, Sickle Cell
Appointments and Schedules
Depression
Female
Ghana
Gravidity
Hemoglobins
Hepatitis
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B Surface Antigens
HIV
Humans
Immunoglobulins
Infant, Newborn
Mass Screening
Mothers
Parturition
Pregnant Women
Prevalence
Public Health
Risk Factors
Vaccination
Surveys and Questionnaires
Hemoglobins
Hepatitis B Surface Antigens
Immunoglobulins