Prevalence, knowledge of and attitude towards hepatitis B virus among pregnant females in Jordan

Abstract

This observational study was designed to assess the prevalence, knowledge and attitude of pregnant females towards Hepatitis B infection, in addition to their perspective of the healthcare practice about HBV in Jordan. A randomly selected group of pregnant females visiting public gynecology clinics in Jordan were approached to participate in the study. Blood samples were collected from the participants, and HBV markers were detected in their serum using specialized ELISA Kits to assess for prevalence of infection. Knowledge and attitude of participants was assessed via a developed and validated questionnaire. Statistical analysis was conducted using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24. Blood samples (n=300) from 330 pregnant females were collected. Prevalence of Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) among the pregnant females was found to be 5%. Anti‐HBs and Anti‐HBc were found to be 33.3% and 7% respectively. No significant correlation between age, socioeconomic status, and educational level were found with HBsAg positivity. Limited knowledge regarding HBV was revealed among the pregnant females (9.1%‐41.3%, p<0.05). The majority had a positive attitude regarding HBV vaccination and antiviral medications in case of infectivity. More than 90% agreed on the present lack of counseling and screening of HBV they obtained during their first perinatal visit to the gynecology clinics. This study revealed a lack of knowledge on HBV, and low counseling and screening received was reported. Policy makers need to introduce new interventions to improve the current awareness of patients and gynecologists regarding Hepatitis B infection.