Awareness and Preventive Practices of Hepatitis B Virus Infection Among Pregnant Women in Bangladesh

Abstract

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major global health challenge, particularly concerning for pregnant women due to the risk of vertical transmission. Although vaccines and antiviral therapies are available, public awareness and preventive practices in Bangladesh remain insufficient. Objective: This study aimed to examine the relationship between awareness and preventive practices of HBV infection among pregnant women in Bangladesh. Methods: A descriptive correlational study design was conducted at the 250-Bedded General Hospital in Kushtia. A total of 112 pregnant women were selected through a convenience sampling technique. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The study found that 80.4% of participants demonstrated limited awareness regarding disease transmission, symptoms, screening procedures, and vaccination. Furthermore, 75% of participants reported insufficient engagement in preventive practices. These findings highlight a substantial deficiency in both awareness and implementation of preventive behaviors. Socio-demographic variables, including educational level, occupation, monthly family income, and place of residence, were significantly associated with awareness and preventive practices. Conclusion: Awareness of HBV infection among pregnant women was inadequate, and their preventive practices were also limited. Therefore, comprehensive health education programs are recommended to be implemented during antenatal visits to increase awareness and improve preventive behaviors among pregnant women in Bangladesh.