Prevalence of HBsAg and prevalence of anti-HCV, and associated factors in the general population in Southern Vietnam

Abstract

Viral hepatitis remains a global health burden, potentially leading to serious liver diseases, including cirrhosis and liver cancer. A cross-sectional study among 7.290 adults was conducted in nine provinces in Southern Vietnam from August to December 2018. Using a multi-stage cluster sampling method, participants were interviewed using a structured questionnaire and had their blood samples tested for hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV). The prevalences of HBV and ever-HCV infection were 8,3% and 2,3%, respectively. Factors associated with increased prevalence of HBV infection included 30-39 years of age, having a low educational level, a family history of liver disease, not being vaccinated against HBV, and having tattoos. Factors associated with an increased prevalence of past HCV infection included being aged ≥ 60, living in the Mekong Delta region, having heard about HCV, being retired, and having a high income. Public health interventions such as expanding HBV vaccination, raising community awareness, and early screening are essential to reduce the burden of hepatitis B and C in Southern Vietnam.