Viral hepatitis in female sex workers using the Respondent-Driven Sampling

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Virology
• Public Health

Background:

• Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) are significant global health concerns.
• Female sex workers (FSW) represent a key population for monitoring and controlling viral hepatitis transmission.
• Understanding infection prevalence, genotypes, and risk factors is vital for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of HBV and HCV infections and their genotypes among FSW in Goiânia, Brazil.
• To identify risk factors associated with HBV exposure markers in this population.
• To inform public health strategies for viral hepatitis prevention and control.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 402 FSW in Goiânia, Brazil, utilizing Respondent-Driven Sampling.
• Participants were interviewed and tested for HBV and HCV infection markers.
• Positive samples were genotyped, and data were analyzed using specialized statistical software.

Main Results:

• Adjusted prevalence rates were 17.1% for HBV and 0.7% for HCV.
• Only 28% of participants showed serological evidence of HBV vaccination.
• Older age, single status, history of blood transfusion, cocaine use, and lack of STI symptom awareness were associated with HBV positivity.

Conclusions:

• While HBV and HCV infection prevalence is low in this FSW cohort, significant risk factors necessitate improved prevention strategies.
• Increased investment in prevention programs addressing sexual and drug-related behaviors is recommended.
• Enhanced HBV vaccination efforts and continued monitoring of HBV and HCV genotypes circulating in Brazil are essential.