Prevalence of Hepatitis C in Makurdi, North Central Nigeria

Abstract

Background: This was a study to determine hepatitis C sero-prevalence rate and create awareness on hepatitis C. Methods: The study was a descriptive cross-sectional survey of attendees at the 2012, World Hepatitis Day ceremony at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital in Makurdi, Nigeria. Interviewer-administered questionnaires were used to obtain information from consenting participants. All respondents were screened for hepatitis C using the Hepatitis C antibody (Anti HCV) test. Results: Hepatitis C sero-prevalence rate was 2.8%. Most of the respondents were: aged 40 years or less (85%), males (51.5%), had 6-10 persons in their household (51.7%). Only 6.4% had ever been transfused with blood, 4.3% had a history of jaundice, and 15.2% had a family member with hepatitis. Majority (85.1%) had poor knowledge regarding hepatitis C and only 27.4% had previously screened for it. There was no significant association between hepatitis C sero-positive status with demographic, risk factors for hepatitis C or knowledge about hepatitis C Conclusions: Hepatitis C infection is a health challenge in Nigeria in the setting of poor knowledge and inadequate screening facilities. All stakeholders should work towards improved awareness and testing for hepatitis C.