Prevalence and Awareness of HIV and Hepatitis B Infections among Blood Donors at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital-Ridge

Abstract:Background: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) aresignificant public health concerns globally, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where the burdenof these infections is disproportionately high. Blood donors play a critical role in ensuring a safeblood supply, yet there is limited data on the prevalence of these infections among blood donorsin Ghana. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of HIV and Hepatitis B among blood donorsat the Greater Accra Regional Hospital and to evaluate their awareness of these infections.Methodology: This analytical cross-sectional study was conducted at the Greater AccraRegional Hospital. A total of 100 voluntary and replacement blood donors were selected using aconvenience sampling method. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, whichassessed participants' socio-demographic characteristics and their awareness of HIV andHepatitis B. Blood samples were tested for HIV and Hepatitis B using the Enzyme-LinkedImmunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages,were used to summarize the data.Results: The prevalence of HIV among the blood donors was 2%, with 98% testing negative.The prevalence of Hepatitis B was 1%, with 99% of donors testing negative. Awareness levelsfor HIV and Hepatitis B were high, with 98% of donors aware of HIV and 99% aware ofHepatitis B. However, there were gaps in knowledge, particularly regarding Hepatitis Bprevention and the risks of co-infection with HIV.Conclusion: The study found a low prevalence of HIV and Hepatitis B among blood donors atthe Greater Accra Regional Hospital, indicating a relatively safe blood supply. However, gaps inknowledge about Hepatitis B and co-infection risks highlight the need for continued publichealth education. Strengthening screening protocols and addressing knowledge gaps regardingprevention, particularly Hepatitis B vaccination, are essential to ensure the safety of the bloodsupply in Ghana and sub-Saharan Africa.