Cross-sectional Study of the Seroprevalence and Risk Factors of Hepatitis C Virus Infection among Adults Attending Primary Health Care in Plateau State, North-central Nigeria
Yadang Dasohot Maktep *
Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Jos, Nigeria, Department of Medical Microbiology, Jos University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Nigeria and Department of Medical Microbiology, College of Medical Sciences, Bingham University, Jos Campus, Nigeria.
Egah Zanyu Daniel
Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Jos, Nigeria and Department of Medical Microbiology, Jos University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Nigeria
Nimzing Lohya
Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Jos, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a significant public health challenge in Nigeria, contributing heavily to chronic liver disease, including cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. While recent data is emerging, national estimates indicate a varied, often underreported burden, particularly in localized, subnational, and high-risk populations.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) among 461 adults at nine primary healthcare centers in Plateau State, Nigeria, from December 2023 to September 2024. Using interviewer-administered questionnaires and third-generation ELISA for anti-HCV antibodies, polymerase chain reaction for confirmation and analyzed associations with potential risk factors with Chi-square and Fisher’s exact test with p<0.05 considered statistically significant.
Results: The overall data revealed high (10.6%) burden Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection among participants with several key socioeconomic and behavioral drivers that significantly linked to higher infection rates (p<0.05). This finding aligns with broader regional data in Nigeria, where some areas, particularly in the North Central region, exhibit double-digit prevalence rates significantly higher than the national average of ~1%.
Conclusion: The high HCV prevalence in Plateau state signals a major public health crisis. To meet WHO 2030 elimination targets, the state must urgently implement community-specific screening, intensive risk-reduction education, and more robust referral pathways within the primary healthcare system.
Keywords: HCV antibodies, seroepidemiology, determinants, community-based care, Plateau State, Nigeria