PREVALENCE OF HEPATITIS B AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN IN PHC ANGWAN WAJE KEFFI LGA NASARAWA STATE, NIGERIA

This study examined the prevalence of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection among pregnant women attending antenatal care at the Primary Health Care (PHC) Centre, Angwan Waje, Keffi Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. The objectives were to determine prevalence rates, identify associated risk factors, assess the role of knowledge and awareness in mitigating the disease’s impact, and evaluate the effectiveness of existing preventive measures. A descriptive survey design was adopted, and data were collected from 100 respondents using structured questionnaires, with 87 valid responses analyzed through descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests. Findings revealed a notable prevalence of HBV infection, influenced by factors such as inadequate awareness, limited screening, and insufficient preventive practices. Statistical analysis showed a significant relationship between awareness levels and reduced disease impact (t = 2.813, p < 0.05). The study concludes that improved health education, routine screening, and vaccination integration into antenatal services are essential to curb HBV transmission, particularly the risk of mother-to-child infection. Recommendations include strengthening public health campaigns, enhancing access to diagnostic and preventive services, and implementing targeted policies to address socio-cultural barriers to HBV prevention among pregnant women.