1.The Prevalence and Risk Factors for Hepatitis B Surface Ag Positivity in Pregnant Women in Eastern Region of Ghana.
Younmo CHO ; George BONSU ; Arko AKOTO-AMPAW ; Grace NKRUMAH-MILLS ; Julia J A NIMO ; Jin Kyung PARK ; Moran KI
Gut and Liver 2012;6(2):235-240
BACKGROUND/AIMS: The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and risk factors for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) positivity in pregnant Ghanaian women. METHODS: We surveyed 1,500 pregnant women in Eastern region of Ghana. Direct interviews were performed by trained nurses using standardized questionnaires. Pregnant women were screened for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis B infections, hemoglobin levels and sickle cell anemia as part of the antenatal check-up. RESULTS: The overall HBsAg positive rate was 10.6%, which varied among districts (13.8% for Kwahu West, 12.4% for Upper Manya, and 2.2% for Yilo Krobo). HBsAg positivity was significantly higher in women with depression (odds ratio [OR], 3.74; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.13 to 6.57) and HIV (OR, 2.03; 95% CI, 1.06 to 3.89). Age, education, and gravidity were not related to HBsAg positivity. Anti-hepatitis B immunoglobulin for newborns of HBsAg-positive mothers is not provided at birth in public health facilities in Ghana. However, hepatitis B vaccination is provided as part of a routine vaccination schedule starting at 6 weeks of age. CONCLUSIONS: To prevent mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis B, screening tests for HBsAg in pregnant women and hepatitis B vaccination of newborns immediately after birth need to be performed in this region.
Anemia, Sickle Cell
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Appointments and Schedules
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Depression
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Female
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Ghana
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Gravidity
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Hemoglobins
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Hepatitis
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Hepatitis B
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Hepatitis B Surface Antigens
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HIV
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Humans
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Immunoglobulins
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Infant, Newborn
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Mass Screening
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Mothers
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Parturition
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Pregnant Women
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Prevalence
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Public Health
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Risk Factors
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Vaccination
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Surveys and Questionnaires