Low seroprevalence of hepatitis B virus and absence of hepatitis C virus among patients attending dental clinics in Mogadishu, Somalia

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) represent major global health challenges, especially in areas where healthcare resources are restricted. This study estimated the seroprevalence of HBV and HCV among patients visiting a selected dental clinic in Mogadishu, Somalia. This cross-sectional study was carried out in Alfurad Dental Clinic between February 2023 and March 2024. A sample size of 410 participants was calculated using Cochran’s formula. Data was collected using structured interviews along with serological testing for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and hepatitis C antibody (anti-HCV). Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS (version 27.0), with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Among the 410 participants, the seroprevalence of HBV was 2.0% (95% CI: 0.9% to 3.6%), with no cases of HCV reported. The majority of participants were female (73.7%). The highest prevalence of HBV was observed in the 60–69 years old age group, and 45.9% of participants had non-formal education. The proportion of individuals vaccinated against hepatitis B was low, at 3.2%, and none of them were found to be infected. No statistically significant associations were identified between HBV prevalence and the following demographic variables: age, gender, marital status, and educational level, or medical history (p > 0.05). The present study reveals a low prevalence of HBV among dental patients in Mogadishu, with a seroprevalence of 2.0%. There were no reported cases of HCV. The results highlight the importance of improved public health strategies that prioritize screening and vaccination to reduce the risk of hepatitis transmission within this particular population. Further investigation is crucial to track developments and guide specific actions.