Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) Infection among Alcoholic Consumers at a Local Community, North-East Nigeria.

Abstract

Alcohol remains the single most significant cause of liver disease throughout the Western world; which is responsible for about 40 – 80% cause of cirrhosis in different countries. This study was therefore carried out to investigate the sero-prevalence of HBV infection among alcoholics. One hundred and thirty eight (138) alcoholic consumers and fifty (50) control subjects at Billiri Community in Billiri Local Government Area of Gombe State were screened for HBsAg using Clinotech Diagnostic Third Generation ELISA Kit. Structured questionnaire was employed to obtain demographic data of study subjects.The result obtained showed a positivity of 10 (5.3%) among the subjects screened. Considering gender 7 (3.7%) seropositivity was recorded among the alcoholic males compared to 3 (2.1%) in females. Age consideration showed that subjects within 21 – 30 years recorded 4 (2.1%) prevalence. Equally control subjects had a prevalence of 4 (2.1%). Considering the serum amino transferase (ALT) among positive subjects screened 8 (4.3%) recorded an elevated ALT.The data obtained in this study calls for drastic measures at curtailing the spread of this virus, because of its attendant effects on the liver. Also, immunization of individuals in this community is highly recommended.

Keywords: Hepatitis B virus, Infection, Alcoholic consumers.