Speaker
Description
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a major public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa, including Ghana, despite the introduction of infant vaccination programs. Limited data exist on HBV prevalence and risk factors in informal sector populations such as market workers, who may face unique occupational and behavioural exposures. This study assessed the prevalence and determinants of HBV infection among sellers and workers at Kejetia Market, Ghana’s largest commercial hub.
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 489 adult market workers between December 2024 and January 2025. Participants were selected through stratified random sampling across occupational groups. Data on sociodemographic, occupational, and behavioral factors were collected using structured questionnaires. On-site testing for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) was performed using the Hightop One Step Rapid Test kit. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify independent predictors of HBV infection.
The overall prevalence of HBV infection was 7.4% (36/489), consistent with intermediate-to-high endemicity. Multivariate analysis identified three independent predictors of HBV infection: male gender (aOR = 0.455, 95% CI: 0.221–0.937; p = 0.033), presence of tattoos (aOR = 0.283, 95% CI: 0.110–0.730; p = 0.009), and vaccination status (unvaccinated individuals had 3.37-fold increased odds of infection; 95% CI: 1.395–8.142; p = 0.007). HBV prevalence declined progressively with increasing vaccine doses, from 9.2% in unvaccinated individuals to 2.3% among those who had completed three or more doses.
HBV infection is common among Kejetia Market workers, with prevalence exceeding both continental and global estimates. Male gender, tattooing, and poor vaccination uptake were significant predictors of infection. Strengthening adult vaccination programs, promoting safe tattooing practices, and implementing male-focused screening and prevention interventions are critical to reducing HBV burden and achieving Ghana’s contribution to the WHO goal of eliminating HBV by 2030.