Seroprevalence of Hepatitis B Virus and Human Immunodeficiency Virus in the Population of Kara, Togo

Abstract

The town of Kara, Togo's second largest city, lies 400 km from the capital and is home to a diverse, predominantly rural population. The aim was to estimate the prevalence of HBsAg and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in 6 villages in the town, and to identify associated factors. We carried out immunochromatographic screening for HBsAg (ONE STEP RAPID TEST, HIGHTROP Biotech, Co LTD) and HIV antibodies (DETERMINE HIV-1/2 ® Kit, ABOTT, Co LTD) during mobile clinics initiated by the Faculty of Health Sciences in April 2024. A total of 1157 patients, of whom 69% (N=1100) [IC95%: 67 to 71] were women, were consulted. HBsAg was detected in 8.76% (N=140), with 67% women and 33% men. Of the positive cases, 3.6% were in the 0-15 age group (N=5). For 1396 patients screened, the prevalence of anti-HIV-1 antibodies was 3.51%, 82% (N=40) of whom were women and 18% (N=9) men. Age was the associated factor.  HIV seroprevalence was higher in subjects aged between [31-45] and [46-60] years than in other age groups (p<0.001). Co-infection with both viruses was found in 5 patients. We therefore need to step up public awareness and education to prevent new infections.