Prevalence and determinants of Hepatitis B among non-Saudi Visitors of Pre Marriage Test Centre of Al Medina: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a significant public health concern globally, with varying prevalence rates across different regions. Al Medina, a major religious and historical city in Saudi Arabia, attracts a large number of international visitors. Understanding the prevalence of HBV among these visitors and identifying key determinants of infection is crucial for targeted public health interventions. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of HBV among non-Saudi visitors to Al Medina and to explore potential determinants of infection.

Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted from January to June 2024 and included 1,000 non-Saudi visitors to Al Medina. Participants were recruited using a stratified random sampling technique to ensure a representative sample of different demographic groups. Data were collected through a combination of structured questionnaires and serological testing for Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). The questionnaire gathered information on demographic characteristics, behavioral risk factors, vaccination history, and socio-economic status. Serological testing was conducted to determine the presence of HBV infection. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics to calculate prevalence rates and logistic regression to identify determinants associated with HBV infection.

Results: The overall prevalence of HBV among the participants was 1.2%. Prevalence rates varied slightly by demographic factors: males had a prevalence of 1.3% compared to 1.0% in females. Higher prevalence rates were observed in older age groups, with those aged 61 years and above showing a prevalence of 2.0%. The analysis did not reveal significant associations between HBV infection and high-risk behaviors, socio-economic status, or vaccination coverage. However, a slightly higher prevalence was noted among visitors from regions with historically high HBV prevalence, though this difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusion: The study found a relatively low prevalence of HBV among non-Saudi visitors to Al Medina, suggesting effective vaccination and preventive measures in the visitors' countries of origin. The lack of significant associations with high-risk behaviors and socio-economic status highlights the potential impact of effective health interventions. Public health strategies should continue to focus on maintaining high vaccination coverage and addressing risks for specific groups, such as older visitors and those from high-prevalence regions. Further research is needed to explore causal relationships and to include a more diverse sample to enhance generalizability and understanding of HBV dynamics among transient populations.