Knowledge on hepatitis B infection among pregnant women in a high endemicity area

To assess the knowledge on hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and associated factors among expectant mothers in an endemic region.

A questionnaire was administered to pregnant Chinese women (n=1623) attending the antenatal clinic to examine their knowledge on HBV infection, and correlating this with socio-demographic, medical and obstetric factors.

Independent factors associated with insufficient reduced HBV knowledge include women outside the healthcare sector, lower education level, and no previous HBV testing. The majority of respondents could provide correct responses about the common aspects of HBV infection, including screening, blood-borne and perinatal transmissions, prevention by vaccination, and sequelae of HBV infection, but 47.1% did not know that HBV is transmissible by sexual intercourse. Over 75% respondents misunderstood the fact that HBV cannot be transmitted through food, or prevented by a balanced life style and nutrition.

Misconceptions about HBV transmission are still common among the obstetric population, and the provision of appropriate and correct information is warranted to improve further the control of HBV infection to the target group.

Appropriate emphasis should be given to educating the general population about horizontal transmission of HBV.