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Cultural Influences on Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Seropositivity in Primary School


JO Chukwuka
CC Ezechukwu
I Egbuonu

Abstract

Objective: To determine the role of cultural influences, namely: circumcision, ear piercing and traditional scarification, on HbsAg seropositivity among primary school children in Nnewi.

Subjects and Method: Two hundred and thirty seven randomly selected primary school children aged 5-12 years, were screened for HbsAg. Information on the subjects were collected by use of a pretested questionnaire and physical examination.

Results: An HbsAg prevalence of 7.6 percent was observed. There was no significant difference in the prevalence of HbsAg between exposed children and those unexposed to the various traditional practices [P >05].

Conclusion: Culturally related exposure did not seem to be a significant mode of HBV spread in Nnewi childhood population.

Key Words: Cultural influences, Hepatitis B surface antigen

Nigerian Journal of Paediatrics Vol.30(4) 2003: 140-142

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eISSN: 0302-4660