The Evaluation of Awareness and Knowledge Regarding Hepatitis B amongst Para Medical Staff in Gujrat, Pakistan

Akash John; Neelam Iqbal; Tallat Anwar Faridi; Warda Kiran

doi:10.52229/ajahs.v7i3.2033

Akash John University Institute of Radiological and Medical Imaging, University of Lahore, Gujrat Campus
Neelam Iqbal St. Mary's Convent
Tallat Anwar Faridi Health Services Academy
Warda Kiran Medical Research Consultants

DOI: https://doi.org/10.52229/ajahs.v7i3.2033

Abstract

Background:

Hepatitis B is quite prevalent at 2.5% in Pakistan and has grown over the previous decade because of less knowledge and awareness.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to evaluate awareness and knowledge regarding Hepatitis B amongst Para Medical Staff in Gujrat, Pakistan

Methodology:

A Cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in Gujrat City including two Tehsils Kharian and Sara Alamgir. The para medical staff of 27 health care setups were consented and included. Data were collected from February, 2020 to August, 2020 using a validated self-administered questionnaire. Data was entered and analyzed on SPSS version 21.

Results:

A total of 380 participants were included and responses were recorded 11.6% does not know that Hepatitis Damages the liver and 35.8% was unaware of its complication leading to liver cancer. One-fourth of the participants such as 25.5 % of Para medical staff was unaware that it can affect all the ages and 49.5 % does not know it can be Asymptomatic. Very little percentage but Considerate around 6% were unaware of transmission through sex and transfer of body fluids. Considering Mother to Child Transmission of 16.1% Para medical staff was unaware of the transmission and 11.3 % of Staff was unaware of the Vaccination program and status.

Conclusion:

The para medical staff was unaware of about complications in Chronic Hepatitis B. Additionally some Para medical staff has low knowledge about Vaccination and transmission through sex and mother to child. Health promotion and behavioral change initiatives emphasizing the relevance of the hepatitis B vaccination are required.