Sexual Behaviours and Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) Infection among Female Sex Workers in Lubowa Village, Wakiso District. A cross-sectional study

Rezumat

Background

Hepatitis B virus is transmitted through parenteral contact with infected blood and sexual contact involving exposure to infectious body fluids. The study aims to assess the relationship between Sexual Behaviours and Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) Infection among Female Sex Workers in Lubowa Village.

Methodology

The study population comprised female sex workers aged 18+ residing and operating in Lubowa Village, Wakiso District, who have been in the area for at least six consecutive months before the data collection period. Bivariate and Multivariate logistic regression were used to determine factors associated with HBV seropositivity. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05.

Results

 Age at first sexual intercourse was significantly associated with HBV infection (χ² = 38.04, p < 0.001). The number of sexual partners was also significantly associated with HBV infection (χ² = 8.56, p = 0.003). Similarly, the frequency of unprotected sexual intercourse was significantly associated with HBV infection (χ² = 10.70, p = 0.013). There was also a statistically significant association between sexual practices and HBV infection (χ² = 42.64, p < 0.001) and between alcohol use before or during sex and HBV infection (χ² = 8.11, p = 0.004).Most respondents were single (75.0%) and had attained primary education (57.5%).

Conclusion

Reducing risky sexual behaviours through comprehensive prevention, condom promotion, behavioural interventions, and targeted health education may reduce HBV transmission among female sex workers.

Recommendation

NGOs and peer educators should strengthen condom distribution, negotiation skills, alcohol harm reduction and economic empowerment to reduce transactional unprotected sex.