Hepatitis B Vaccination Rates and Risk Factors Affecting Vaccine Response in People Living with HIV in Turkey

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) coinfection is prevalent.
• Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for individuals with HIV.
• Lower vaccine response rates are observed in people living with HIV compared to the general population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine hepatitis B vaccination rates among people living with HIV.
• To identify risk factors influencing hepatitis B vaccine response in people living with HIV.

Main Methods:

• A multicenter, observational, retrospective study was conducted.
• Included patients over 18 years old diagnosed with HIV and followed for at least six months.
• Hepatitis B virus (HBV) screening and anti-HBs levels post-vaccination were assessed.

Main Results:

• The hepatitis B vaccination rate was 33.7% in the studied cohort of 274 people living with HIV.
• A vaccine response (anti-HBs ≥10 IU/L) was achieved in 73.4% of vaccinated individuals.
• Hypertension and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) were identified as independent risk factors associated with reduced vaccine response.

Conclusions:

• Individuals with hypertension and COPD demonstrated lower hepatitis B vaccine response rates.
• These comorbidities should be considered to optimize hepatitis B immunization strategies for people living with HIV.
• Improving vaccination outcomes in this vulnerable population is crucial.