Burden and Risk Factors of Hepatitis B and C Virus Infections among Hospital and Community Populations in North-Central Nigeria

Chronic viral hepatitis due to hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) remains a significant global public health problem and a major cause of liver-related morbidity and mortality in sub-Saharan Africa. Nigeria bears a substantial share of this burden, particularly in the North-Central region, where endemic transmission persists. However, data describing the prevalence of HBV and HCV infections and their associated risk factors across both community and healthcare settings remain limited. This study assessed the prevalence of HBV and HCV infections and identified associated risk factors among adults in Akwanga, Lafia, and Keffi Local Government Areas of Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Methods : A cross-sectional study involving 852 adults (284 per location) was conducted. Socio-demographic, behavioural, healthcare-related, and household exposure data were collected using structured questionnaires. All participants were screened for HBV and HCV using Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDT), ELISA and confirmed with PCR. Data were analysed using SPSS v26; descriptive statistics summarized prevalence, and Chi-square, Fisher’s exact tests, and logistic regression identified risk factors (p < 0.05). Results : The overall prevalence of HBV was 13.1% and HCV 7.9%. HBV prevalence was highest in Keffi (15.1%), followed by Akwanga (14.4%) and Lafia (9.9%), while HCV prevalence was highest in Keffi (10.9%), Akwanga (7.7%), and Lafia (4.9%). Significant risk factors for HBV infection included previous surgery or medical procedures involving sharps (OR = 1.27; 95% CI:0.7–2.3), sharing personal items (OR = 1.72; 95% CI:1.1–2.7), and history of sexually transmitted infections (OR = 2.35; 95% CI:1.3–4.2). For HCV, blood transfusion (OR = 2.08; 95% CI:1.0–4.3) and surgery (OR = 1.11; 95% CI:0.5–2.3) were notable risk factors. Knowledge of hepatitis B and C was generally moderate, with gaps in vaccination awareness and preventive behaviours. Conclusion : HBV and HCV infections is highly endemic in Nasarawa State, North Central Nigeria and a significant public health challenge due to its similar route of transmission, with facility and community variations. Targeted interventions focusing on safe medical practices, behavioural education, vaccination promotion, and routine screening are urgently needed to reduce transmission and liver-related morbidity.