Perceptions, Attitudes, and Behaviors Related to Hepatitis Among the General Population Attending a COVID-19 Vaccination Center in a Tertiary Care Hospital in India

TL;DR

This study assesses public knowledge, attitudes, and practices about hepatitis B and C in India, finding moderate knowledge but significant gaps in prevention practices.

Contribution

The study provides novel insights into hepatitis-related KAP in a general population in India using a large cross-sectional survey.

Findings

Participants had moderate knowledge about hepatitis, with significant gaps in understanding transmission and prevention.

Only 17.55% believed they were at risk of hepatitis B, and just 24.5% had been screened for hepatitis B or C.

Positive attitudes toward treatment were observed, but preventive practices were inconsistent.

Abstract

Background and objective

Hepatitis B and C are major public health issues in India, associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Understanding the general population's perceptions, values, attitudes, and behaviors regarding these infections is essential for effective health interventions. In light of this, the present study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) related to hepatitis B and C among individuals attending a coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination center at a tertiary care hospital in India.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey involving 759 participants was conducted using a structured questionnaire. Data on demographics and hepatitis-related KAP were collected via face-to-face interviews. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, multivariate logistic regression, and Pearson’s correlation coefficients were used for data analysis.

Results

The mean age of the participants was 33.4 years, with 445 (58.6%) of them being males. Most had at least a high school education, and 467 (61.53%) were employed. The mean knowledge score was 18.94 out of a possible total score of 45. While 529 (69.7%) knew that hepatitis affects the liver, only 317 (41.77%) were aware of the various types of viral hepatitis. The mean attitude score was 15.28 out of 21, with 78.73% willing to seek treatment if diagnosed. However, only 133 (17.55%) believed they were at risk of contracting hepatitis B. The mean practice score was 7.95 out of 15. About 256 (33.73%) had completed the hepatitis B vaccination course and 186 (24.5%) had been screened for hepatitis B or C.

Conclusions

The study indicates moderate knowledge but significant gaps in understanding about hepatitis transmission and prevention among the general public. Attitudes towards vaccination and treatment are generally positive, but practices related to prevention are inconsistent. Enhanced public health education and targeted interventions are needed to improve hepatitis-related KAP among the general population.

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