Survey on Hepatitis B Knowledge and Awareness among the University Students of Bangladesh

Abstract

Hepatitis B (HB) is a serious global health problem which affects the liver. Hepatitis viruses are the most common cause of hepatitis in the world but toxic substances (e.g. alcohol, certain drugs) can also cause hepatitis. The purpose of our study was to determine the knowledge level of university students in Bangladesh about Hepatitis B, their perception of risk factors and their knowledge about Hepatitis B vaccination. A questionnaire based survey was carried out among 500 university students in Dhaka city of Bangladesh. During the study, it was found that 89% respondents heard about Hepatitis B where 55% were female. Of those who were aware of hepatitis B infection, 30% mentioned blood transfusion as route of transmission of Hepatitis B, 20% and 17% marked mother to fetus and sharing infected needle & syringe respectively while 15% told that the disease can be transmitted through unprotected sex. About 77% students were aware of the affected organ. Level of vaccination of university students was 47% and the rest of them did not complete the full dose vaccination or did not take vaccine due to the lack of free time, lack of belief and also informed that they have never thought about vaccination and its necessity. Besides, most of the respondents (70%) had no knowledge about correct WHO schedule for Hepatitis B vaccination. Different types of seminar on hepatitis B, arranged by university can increase students level of knowledge and awareness. Government and different health related organization should take necessary steps to increase knowledge and awareness about Hepatitis B virus and its infection. The survey was carried out in a few universities within the Dhaka city. Therefore, further research with other universities from different parts of Bangladesh is needed to reinforce the outcome of this research.