Hepatitis B prevalence within a dental student population

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Hepatitis B virus (HBV) poses a risk in healthcare settings.
• Previous studies suggest higher HBV prevalence in practicing dentists compared to the general population.
• Understanding HBV seroprevalence in dental students is crucial for assessing occupational risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and antibodies (anti-HBs) in dental and dental hygiene students.
• To compare these rates with control populations and identify potential risk factors.
• To investigate disparities in HBV prevalence among different student demographics.

Main Methods:

• Descriptive epidemiologic study design.
• Serologic testing for HBsAg and anti-HBs in dental and dental hygiene students.
• Comparison with control groups including a general population and blood donors.
• Analysis of potential risk factors such as prior liver disease, patient contact, and needlestick injuries.

Main Results:

• HBsAg and anti-HBs prevalence in dental and dental hygiene students were comparable to control groups.
• Practicing dentists, particularly oral surgeons, show higher rates than students, suggesting increased risk post-graduation.
• No significant correlation found between serologic response and factors like liver disease, patient contact, injections, facial hair, or dental procedure-related punctures.
• Significantly increased prevalence of HBsAg and anti-HBs was observed among Black students.

Conclusions:

• Dental students do not exhibit an elevated risk for HBV infection compared to the general population.
• The increased risk observed in practicing dentists likely stems from greater occupational exposure.
• Targeted screening and prevention strategies may be necessary for Black students due to higher prevalence.