Seroprevalence and Risk Factors Associated with Hepatitis B Virus Infection at the Ngoyo General Hospital, Republic of the Congo

Abstract

Hepatitis B remains one of the most widespread chronic viral infections and represents a major public health challenge worldwide. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of hepatitis B virus infection and to identify associated risk factors in subjects admitted to the Ngoyo General Hospital in Pointe-Noire. This was a cross-sectional analytical study conducted from January 2022 to December 2025. Sociodemographic data were collected using a questionnaire, while HBsAg detection was performed by ELISA. Statistical analyses were performed using GraphPad Prism software. A total of 1,237 patients were included, with a male predominance of 63.05% versus 36.90% females (sex ratio 1.70 ~2). The mean age was 36.72 ± 10.10 years (18 - 65 years). The most represented age group was 31 to 45 years, at 55.69%. The seroprevalence of HBV infection was 5.50%. Lack of vaccination against HBV was associated with a significant increase in the risk of infection (p = 0.033), as were a history of blood transfusion (p = 0.037) and multiple sexual partners (p = 0.038). After adjustment, a history of tattooing or scarification (p < 0.001) and drug use (p < 0.001) were independently associated with a lower probability of HBV infection. This study demonstrated the existence of risk factors related to the hepatitis B virus within the hospital population and contributes to strengthening awareness, regular clinical follow-up, and long-term management of patients infected with HBV.