Prevalence and Risk Factors in HBV/HIV co-infection among Pregnant Women attending Antenatal care in Tertiary Institution in North Central Nigeria

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are important aetiologic agents of infectious diseases. They constitute significant public health challenge due to potential for both horizontal and vertical (perinatal) transmission with increased feto-maternal morbidity and mortality.  This study aimed at determining the prevalence and associated risk factors of HBV/HIV co-infection among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic at FMC, Keffi.

Methods: This prospective longitudinal and analytical study was carried out at the Federal Medical Centre, Keffi over a seven months period. One hundred and seventy-six (176) HIV positive pregnant women were recruited for the study using systematic sampling technique. Structured questionnaires were used to obtained information on Socio-demographic characteristics and possible risk factors. Blood sample was collected to test for HBsAg using Enzyme linked Immunosorbent Assay. Data obtained were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0 and test of associations were done with Chi square and Fisher exact test. All analyses were done at 95% level of significance and a p value less than 0.05 was considered significant.

Results: A total of 176 HIV positive pregnant women were included in the study. The prevalence of HBV/HIV co-co-infection among pregnant women in this study was 5.7%. The mean age of the participants was 32.42 years (SD±4.99, range 16-42 years). Age, marital status, education and occupation were not significantly associated with the risk of HBV/HIV co-infection.

Conclusion: Understanding the trend in HBV/HIV co-infection will help to strengthen strategies for prevention and treatment of HBV in HIV positive pregnant women.

Keywords: HBV, HIV, HBV/HIV co-infection; Pregnant women