Epidemiological Burden of Hepatitis B Infection among Military Personnel in Khartoum State
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Publication date: 2023-04-27
Popul. Med. 2023;5(Supplement):A289
ABSTRACT
Background and Objectives: Viral hepatitis has been identified as the seventh leading cause of mortality worldwide. In 2015 an estimated 1.34 million deaths in the world is due to viral hepatitis, approximately half (47%) are related to hepatitis B virus (HBV). The WHO classified Sudan among the highest-burden countries for hepatitis B virus infection (>8%). Living in military camps and being at a greater risk for injury and hospitalization results in a higher risk of HBV infection acquisition among military personnel. Sudan has launched the first national strategic plan on viral hepatitis from 2019 – 2025. The aim of this study is to assess the epidemiological burden of HBV infection among military personnel to help in the implementation of the national strategic plan. Methods: A sample of 770 military personnel was selected by stratified cluster sampling. Seroepidemiologic and questionnaire survey tools have been used to collect the data, and SPSS was used for analysis. Results: A seroepidemiologic survey was conducted among 770 active military personnel working in four areas in Khartoum State. More of them are male (91%), and only (9%) are female. The majority age group is 18 -30 years (46.5%), and (34.8%) of the group is 31 – 45 years. The seroprevalence HBsAg among military personnel was 8.9%. The study indicated an association between the age 31-45 years and HBV infection P>0.05, and between the deployment duration and HBV infection P>0.05. The study showed a low awareness about the disease (35%), mode of transmission (43%), and taking treatment (23%). Conclusions: HBV infection among military personnel was high and the main risk factors the age, education, and longer deployment duration. Poor disease awareness and delays in treatment increase the disease burden. Screening surveys, treatment with regular follow-up visits, health education, and vaccination program are needed for disease control.