Prevalence of Hepatitis B Surface Antigen and Associated Factors among Diabetic Patients Attending Bugando Medical Centre in Mwanza, Tanzania

Background: Hepatitis B virus is a significant public health concern, especially among high-risk groups such as diabetic patients. Hepatitis B infection can lead to serious liver diseases such as hepatocellular carcinoma and cirrhosis. Precise data on the prevalence of Hepatitis B infections in these high-risk groups are crucial for executing targeted interventions aimed at reducing Hepatitis B virus transmission. Here, we report the prevalence and factors associated with Hepatitis B infections among diabetic patients in Mwanza, Tanzania. Methodology: A cross-sectional study involving 177 diabetic patients was conducted between May and July 2023 at Bugando Medical Centre. Socio-demographic and other relevant information were collected using a structured, pretested data collection tool. Approximately 3-5 mL of blood sample was collected from each participant, followed by HbsAg testing using the One Step HBsAg Rapid Test kit. Descriptive analysis was performed using STATA version 15 software. Results: The median [IQR] age of participants was 61 [29-85] years. The prevalence of HBsAg among diabetic patients was 4.5% (8/177); 95% CI [1.4 –7.5]. Sharing cutting equipment was significantly associated with HBsAg positivity (p = 0.022). Conclusion: The prevalence of HBsAg among diabetic patients indicates intermediate endemicity as per WHO classification, with sharing of cutting equipment significantly contributing to Hepatitis B virus infection in this group. There is a need to include general education regarding HBV transmission in the management of diabetic patients