Epidemiological Factors Associated With Hbv Infection And Uptake Of Hbv Testing In South West Region Of Cameroon: What Can Be Done To Scale Up Hbv Testing In Our Setting?

Abstract Background HBV infection affects millions of people globally and this can be partly attributed to its high degree of transmissibility. This study was aimed at identifying some prevailing epidemiological factors associated with HBV infection and uptake of HBV testing in South West region of Cameroon. Methods This was a hospital-based case-control study which enrolled HBV infected participants and “healthy” controls ≥ 18 years old. Venous blood collected from participants was used to conduct HBV panel test. Data on demographic and behavioral risk factors as well as reasons for doing the HBV test for the first time were collected using a questionnaire. Results A total of 424 participants were enrolled (212 “healthy” controls and 212 HBV infected cases). Male sex (odds ratio [OR] = 2.08, p = 0.010), ≤ secondary education level (OR = 4.83, p < 0.001), low income level (OR = 3.79, p < 0.001), rural settlement (OR = 2.17, p = 0.031), history of sexually transmitted infections (STI) (OR = 4.24, p < 0.001) and ignorance of sex partners HBsAg status (OR = 2.70, p = 0.003) all had an independent and significant association with HBV infection. Top 3 reasons for doing HBsAg test were free screening (40.3%), Blood donation (15.0%) and administrative requirements (14.9%). Seven (1.7%) participants got tested for the first time after symptoms were identified by a doctor. Conclusion Male sex, low income level, ≤ secondary education level, rural settlement, history of STI and ignorance of sex partners HBsAg status were significantly associated with HBV infection. Free screening, blood donation and administrative requirements were the most common reasons for doing HBsAg test. Uptake of HBsAg testing and early detection can be improved if more sensitization and free/opportunistic screenings are carried out. A significant drop in the cost of the test could encourage more people to get tested as well.