Associations between Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Hepatitis B Virus Infection and HBV Infection among Blood Donors in Mogadishu, Somalia: A Hospital-based Cross-sectional Study

Background: Globally, more than 81 million blood units are donated annually, and blood transfusion stands as a crucial medical procedure with no viable substitute. Unsafe blood transfusion contributes to 8 to 16 million new hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Somalia faces a high demand for blood transfusions with a prevalent HBV infection rate, driven by various factors, yet no similar previous study exists. The objective of this study was to determine the associations between the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of blood donors concerning HBV infection and their infection status in Mogadishu, Somalia. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in data collection between February and April 2023, using a 5ml blood sample and a well-structured questionnaire. A rapid test was utilized to indicate HBV positivity. Univariable and multivariable logistic regressions were employed to determine the associations, considering at α = 0.050 as statistically significant. Results Out of the 420 blood donors who participated in this study, 34 (8.1%) tested positive for HBV infection. The majority of the participants (94.2%) were males with an average age of 30.4 (SD ± 7.2). In multivariable logistic regression, the study revealed that blood donors with poor knowledge (AOR = 5.80, 95% CI = 1.69–19.89), those with moderate knowledge (AOR = 4.41, 95% CI = 1.09–17.90), and those with poor practices (AOR = 3.52, 95% CI = 1.09–11.34) toward HBV infection were more likely to become infected compared to their counterparts. Conclusion Blood donors in Mogadishu, Somalia, face a high burden of HBV infection. To effectively address this issue and ensure a safer blood supply, prioritizing initiatives aimed at enhancing the knowledge of blood donors regarding HBV infection is crucial. This involves educating donors about the various modes of transmission, emphasizing preventive measures, and stressing the importance of regular screenings. Additionally, encouraging better practices related to HBV infection among blood donors is essential in this endeavor.