Seroprevalence of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Among Blood Donors in Borgou, Benin in 2023: A Cross-Sectional Study

Blood transfusion remains vital in healthcare but poses risks, particularly from transfusion-transmissible viral infections (TTVIs). This study aims to determine the seroprevalence of HIV, HBV, and HCV among blood donors in Borgou (Benin) in 2023. This prospective, cross-sectional study involved voluntary, non-remunerated blood donors recruited via mobile campaigns and at a fixed site from January to December 2023. Screening for HIV, HBV, and HCV was performed using fourth-generation ELISA (Biorad^®). Data analysis used SPSS with Chi-square test of independence (<i>p</i> < 0.05), and multiple logistic regression identified independent risk factors. Among 9646 donors, 87.80% were male (sex ratio 7.19), mostly aged 18-24 (55.93%), with students forming the largest group (58.67%). Mobile units collected 70.80% of donations; 52.60% were repeat donors. Overall TTVI seroprevalence was 9.35%, with HBV (6.29%) most common, followed by HCV (1.78%) and HIV (1.28%). Chi-square tests revealed significant associations between serostatus and donor status, donation site, and occupation, but not sex. Logistic regression identified independent risk factors: age, donor status, and donation site were significantly associated with HIV infection; male sex, older age, occupation, and donor status predicted HBV infection; and only donor status was significantly associated with HCV infection. These findings highlight the need for targeted recruitment and awareness strategies to improve transfusion safety.