PREVALENCE OF HEPATITIS B SURFACE ANTIGEN AMONG STUDENTS OF KWARA STATE COLLEGE OF HEALTH TECHNOLOGY, OFFA, NIGERIA: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY COLLEGE OF HEALTH TECHNOLOGY, OFFA

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a significant global public health concern, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa where it is endemic. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) among students of Kwara State College of Health Technology, Offa, Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between July and August 2016 involving 100 randomly selected students from various departments of the college. Blood samples were collected and screened for HBsAg using a rapid chromatographic immunoassay. Data on age, sex, and department were recorded and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: The overall seroprevalence of HBsAg was 7% (n=7). Females showed a higher prevalence (8.2%) compared to males (5.13%). Students aged 18-21 years had a higher prevalence rate (12.5%) than those aged 22-25 years (4%). No HBsAg positivity was detected in students above 26 years. Analysis by department revealed the highest prevalence in Environmental Health department (27.1%), followed by Public Health and Community Health departments (9.1% each), with Dental Health and Nutrition departments each showing 8.3% prevalence. Conclusion: This study demonstrates a concerning prevalence of HBsAg among college students, particularly in younger females and students of Environmental Health. The findings highlight the need for targeted HBV screening, vaccination programs, and education about preventive measures within tertiary institutions in Nigeria.