KNOWLEDGE, RISK BEHAVIOURS, AND PREVENTIVE PRACTICES RELATED TO HEPATITIS B VIRUS AMONG RESIDENTS OF JALINGO METROPOLIS, TARABA STATE, NIGERIA.

Abstract

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) remains a major public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa, with Nigeria bearing a high burden of chronic infection. Adequate knowledge, healthy behavioural practices, and preventive measures are essential for reducing HBV transmission. This study assessed the knowledge, risk behaviours, and preventive practices related to HBV among residents of Jalingo Metropolis, Taraba State, Nigeria. A community-based descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 618 adult residents selected using a multi-stage sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire and analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations, were used to summarise the findings. The respondents were predominantly males (59.2%) and young adults aged 18–36 years (56.6%). Overall, respondents demonstrated a moderate level of HBV knowledge. Most correctly identified HBV as a viral infection (68.8%), recognised infected blood as a route of transmission (63.1%), acknowledged vaccination as a preventive measure (61.2%), and understood that infected individuals may remain asymptomatic (61.2%). However, knowledge of sexual transmission was comparatively lower (55.3%). Risk behaviours remained common, with 26.7% reporting frequent sharing of sharp objects, 29.0% engaging in unprotected sexual practices, 20.4% frequently patronising uncertified healthcare facilities, and 24.4% regularly participating in tattooing or scarification. Preventive practices showed moderate compliance: 62.9% reported receiving HBV vaccination, 68.9% avoided sharing sharp objects, 57.1% consistently practised safe sex, and 50.3% regularly attended HBV health education programmes. The study concluded that residents of Jalingo Metropolis exhibited moderate knowledge and preventive practices regarding HBV; however, substantial knowledge gaps and persistent high-risk behaviours continue to predispose the population to HBV transmission. Strengthening community-based health education, expanding access to routine screening and vaccination services, and promoting safer behavioural practices are recommended to improve HBV prevention and control.

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) remains a major public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa, with Nigeria bearing a high burden of chronic infection. Adequate knowledge, healthy behavioural practices, and preventive measures are essential for reducing HBV transmission. This study assessed the knowledge, risk behaviours, and preventive practices related to HBV among residents of Jalingo Metropolis, Taraba State, Nigeria. A community-based descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 618 adult residents selected using a multi-stage sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire and analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations, were used to summarise the findings. The respondents were predominantly males (59.2%) and young adults aged 18–36 years (56.6%). Overall, respondents demonstrated a moderate level of HBV knowledge. Most correctly identified HBV as a viral infection (68.8%), recognised infected blood as a route of transmission (63.1%), acknowledged vaccination as a preventive measure (61.2%), and understood that infected individuals may remain asymptomatic (61.2%). However, knowledge of sexual transmission was comparatively lower (55.3%). Risk behaviours remained common, with 26.7% reporting frequent sharing of sharp objects, 29.0% engaging in unprotected sexual practices, 20.4% frequently patronising uncertified healthcare facilities, and 24.4% regularly participating in tattooing or scarification. Preventive practices showed moderate compliance: 62.9% reported receiving HBV vaccination, 68.9% avoided sharing sharp objects, 57.1% consistently practised safe sex, and 50.3% regularly attended HBV health education programmes. The study concluded that residents of Jalingo Metropolis exhibited moderate knowledge and preventive practices regarding HBV; however, substantial knowledge gaps and persistent high-risk behaviours continue to predispose the population to HBV transmission. Strengthening community-based health education, expanding access to routine screening and vaccination services, and promoting safer behavioural practices are recommended to improve HBV prevention and control.