Assessment of Knowledge and Awareness Concerning to Hepatitis B Virus among Patients in Quetta
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Abstract
Hepatitis B virus infection is one of the most dangerous health problem in all over the world. Approximately 30% of people globally are affected by it. Lack of attentiveness and false impressions regarding HBV spread, prevention and management remain common, particularly in the countryside and among low literacy residents. The study was designed to assess the patient’s knowledge and awareness about HBV. The study was conducted at Bolan Medical Complex and Civil Hospital Quetta over a period of 4 months. These hospitals were selected as study centres because they are government hospitals and patients attending them come from diverse regions with different localities, ages and educational backgrounds. The data were collected from 120 patients through a structured questionnaire, then entered into a Microsoft Excel sheet and examined by means of descriptive statistics and ratios. The results disclosed that most of the patients belonged to rural areas (63.3%) and were uneducated (65%).55.8% of patients consider HBV as a viral infection, and 75% believe that vaccination is a good preventive measure. A moderate portion of participants were aware of the use of sterile instruments and hygiene practices. Yet, misconceptions concerning HBV spread, treatment, and home remedies were still present. The conclusion of the study is that the patients in Quetta have limited information and awareness concerning HBV, with major gaps in understanding spread, treatment and prevention. Awareness campaigns among the public, informative programs, vaccination campaigns, and community involvement are needed to improve HBV awareness and decrease incidence rates, mainly among rural residents.
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References
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