Prevalence of Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) Amongst Alcohol Consumers at Bassa LGA, Plateau State, Nigeria

Abstract

The prevalence of Hepatitis B surface Antigen was studied amongst alcohol consumers and non– consumers (Control subjects) in Bassa Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State. Three hundred and five (305) subjects comprising 255(83.61%) alcoholics and 50(16.39%) non-alcoholic control subjects were screened for HBsAg using the one step rapid immuno-chromatographic strip. Questionnaires covering gender, age, educational status, history of blood transfusion, and evidence of sexual transmitted disease, were administered to each subject. Overall result showed that 54(17.71%) of the subjects tested positive for HBsAg. The prevalence rate of 43(14.10%), was recorded amongst male subjects, while the female subjects had 11(3.61%). Furthermore, the study showed that prevalence of HBsAg was higher among the 19-30 years age group, conversely, the lowest prevalence rate was recorded among the elderly. Notably, alcohol consumers recorded the highest prevalence of 43(14.10%) out of 255(83.61%), while the non-consumers had a prevalence rate of 11(3.61%). The serum amino transferases (ALT/AST) levels in positive subjects were significantly high. Values for both AST and ALT obtained showed elevations in 14(4.59%) HBsAg positive subjects. These results show health implication of Hepatitis B Virus infection, especially in alcohol consumers in the study area. Therefore, the populace needs to be educated on the effect of this infectious agent of medical importance and the need for vaccinating individuals against the Virus.

Keywords: Prevalence, hepatitis B, surface antigen, alcoholics, Nigeria

International Journal of Natural and Applied Sciences, 5(3): 276-280, 2009