Abdulrahman, M., Owusu, M. O., Anointed, D., Josiah, D. D., Mani, M., Muoghalu, F. E. F., & Peter, I. ode . ode . (2026). Prevalence and Determinants of Hepatitis B and C Infections among Adults in Rural Northern Nigeria: Evidence from Fufore Local Government Area Adamawa state. International Journal of Research, 13(1), 560–571. https://doi.org/10.26643/ijr/2026/27

Prevalence and Determinants of Hepatitis B and C Infections among Adults in Rural Northern Nigeria: Evidence from Fufore Local Government Area Adamawa state

Muhammad Abdulrahman¹, Michael Oluyemi Owusu², David Anointed¹, Dennis Dibal Josiah³, Magaji Mani⁴, Fakunle Ebere Favour Muoghalu ⁵, Itua ode ode Peter ⁵

¹ Faculty of Public Health Texila American University, Lot 2442, Plantation Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD), Guyana, South America,

²Clinical Research Nurse, National Health Service (NHS), Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Mindelsohn way, Edgbaston Birmingham United Kingdom B15 2GW

³Principal Medical Officer Cottage Hospital Fufore

⁴Department of Nursing Science Specialist Hospital Yola, Adamawa State Nigeria.

⁵World Health Organization FCT Field Office, Plot 617/618 Diplomatic Drive, Central Area District, P.M.B. 2851, Garki, Abuja, Nigeria.

ABSTRACT

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections remain major public health challenges in Nigeria, particularly in rural communities with limited access to prevention and screening services. This study determined the prevalence and determinants of HBV and HCV infections among adults in Fufore Local Government Area (LGA), Adamawa State, Nigeria.

Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 384 adults selected using a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered structured questionnaire, and blood samples were tested for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and hepatitis C antibody (anti-HCV) using rapid diagnostic test kits. Descriptive statistics were used to estimate prevalence. Chi-square tests assessed associations between independent variables and hepatitis infection. Multivariable logistic regression identified independent determinants of hepatitis infection, defined as positivity to either HBsAg or anti-HCV. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Determinants were analyzed using a combined hepatitis infection outcome due to overlapping transmission risk factors.

Results: The mean age of participants was 34.8 ± 10.6 years. The prevalence of hepatitis B and hepatitis C infections was 17.2% and 11.7%, respectively, while 4.7% of participants had HBV–HCV co-infection. Overall, 33.6% of respondents tested positive for at least one hepatitis infection. Independent determinants of hepatitis infection included unprotected sexual intercourse (AOR = 2.41; 95% CI: 1.31–4.45), traditional unsafe invasive procedures (AOR = 2.13; 95% CI: 1.09–4.17), sharing of sharp objects (AOR = 2.56; 95% CI: 1.30–4.70), age 35–44 years (AOR = 1.89; 95% CI: 1.02–3.49), low educational level (AOR = 2.21; 95% CI: 1.08–4.53), and marital status (AOR = 1.73; 95% CI: 1.01–3.02).

Conclusion: The prevalence of hepatitis B and C infections among adults in Fufore LGA is high, indicating sustained transmission in this rural community. Behavioral and sociodemographic factors were significant determinants, underscoring the need for targeted screening, vaccination, and community-based risk-reduction interventions.

Keywords: Hepatitis B; Hepatitis C; prevalence; determinants; rural community; Nigeria.

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections remain major public health challenges globally, contributing substantially to liver-related morbidity and mortality. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that approximately 296 million people are living with chronic hepatitis B and 58 million with chronic hepatitis C worldwide, resulting in over 1.1 million deaths annually from complications such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (World Health Organization, 2023).

Sub-Saharan Africa bears a disproportionate share of the global hepatitis burden due to limited access to preventive services, suboptimal vaccination coverage, inadequate screening, and persistent high-risk behaviors (Olayinka et al., 2016). Nigeria is classified as a high-burden country for viral hepatitis, with a national hepatitis B prevalence estimated at approximately 8.1% and hepatitis C prevalence of about 2.2% in the general population (Tomas et al., 2021; Musa et al., 2022). However, evidence suggests that prevalence rates are often higher in rural and underserved communities, where healthcare access is limited and traditional practices involving non-sterile instruments remain common (Ndako et al., 2019).

Rural populations in northern Nigeria are particularly vulnerable to hepatitis transmission due to widespread engagement in unsafe traditional invasive procedures, sharing of sharp objects, and low awareness of transmission routes and preventive measures (Okonko et al., 2019). Anecdotal reports from local health facilities in Adamawa State indicate frequent detection of hepatitis B and C infections among adults seeking care, suggesting a potentially substantial but under-documented burden in rural communities.

Fufore Local Government Area (LGA) of Adamawa State is a predominantly rural setting characterized by farming and informal trading, with limited access to secondary and tertiary healthcare services. Despite the known risk profile of similar rural communities in northern Nigeria, there is a paucity of community-based epidemiological data on the prevalence and determinants of hepatitis B and C infections in Fufore LGA. Existing studies from Adamawa State and neighboring regions are largely facility-based or focused on specific subpopulations, limiting their generalizability to the wider adult population.

Addressing this gap is critical for informing targeted public health interventions, including hepatitis B vaccination scale-up, community-based screening, and culturally appropriate risk-reduction strategies. This study therefore assessed the prevalence and determinants of hepatitis B and C infections among adults in Fufore Local Government Area, Adamawa State, Nigeria.

Statement of the Problem

Despite global advancements in prevention and treatment, hepatitis B and C infections remain underdiagnosed, especially in rural communities in Nigeria (Musa et al., 2022). WHO identifies Nigeria as a high-burden country for HBV, with rural populations experiencing disproportionate risks due to widespread traditional invasive practices using non-sterile tools and inadequate access to healthcare services (WHO, 2023; Okwori et al., 2020).

In Fufore LGA, informal reports and field observations indicate potentially increasing prevalence of hepatitis infections among adults. High engagement in unsafe traditional invasive procedures, low awareness levels, and risky behaviors such as unprotected sex and unsafe sharing of sharp objects remain key contributors to transmission. However, there is limited local epidemiological data to guide evidence-based intervention strategies.
This study therefore, determined the prevalence and determinants of hepatitis B and C infections among adults in Fufore LGA to facilitate informed public health actions for prevention and control.

Significance of the Study

This study will provide community-based evidence on the burden and determinants of hepatitis B and C infections in Fufore LGA. The findings are expected to inform public health strategies, support planning and implementation of targeted screening and vaccination programs, and guide community-based educational interventions to reduce transmission (WHO, 2023). Policymakers, healthcare providers, and stakeholders will benefit from the results in designing context-specific interventions.

Scope of the Study

The study focuses on adults aged 18 years and above residing in selected wards (Beti, Gurin, Ribadu, and Fufore) of Fufore LGA. It assesses the prevalence of hepatitis B and C infections and examines sociodemographic and behavioral determinants associated with their transmission.

Objectives of the Study

General Objective

To determine the prevalence and determinants of hepatitis B and C infections among adults in Fufore Local Government Area, Adamawa State, Nigeria.

Specific Objectives

1. To determine the prevalence of hepatitis B and hepatitis C infections among adults in Fufore Local Government Area.
2. To identify behavioral risk factors associated with hepatitis B and C infections among adults in Fufore Local Government Area.
3. To assess the association between selected sociodemographic characteristics and hepatitis B and C infections among adults in Fufore Local Government Area.

Research Questions

1. What is the prevalence of hepatitis B and hepatitis C infections among adults in Fufore Local Government Area?
2. Which behavioral risk factors are associated with hepatitis B and C infections among adults in Fufore Local Government Area?
3. What sociodemographic factors are associated with hepatitis B and C infections among adults in Fufore Local Government Area?

Research Hypotheses

Null Hypotheses (H₀)

• H₀₁: There is no significant association between behavioral risk factors (unprotected sexual intercourse, sharing of sharp objects, and traditional unsafe invasive procedures) and hepatitis B and C infections among adults in Fufore Local Government Area.
• H₀₂: There is no significant association between sociodemographic characteristics (age, sex, marital status, and educational level) and hepatitis B and C infections among adults in Fufore Local Government Area.

Alternative Hypotheses (H₁)

• H₁₁: Behavioral risk factors (unprotected sexual intercourse, sharing of sharp objects, and traditional unsafe invasive procedures) are significantly associated with hepatitis B and C infections among adults in Fufore Local Government Area.
• H₁₂: Sociodemographic characteristics (age, sex, marital status, and educational level) are significantly associated with hepatitis B and C infections among adults in Fufore Local Government Area.

Operational Definition of Terms

• Burden: The prevalence of hepatitis B and C infections within the study population.
• Determinants: Sociodemographic and behavioral factors contributing to hepatitis transmission.
• Risk Factors: Actions or practices, such as unprotected sex, sharing sharp objects, or undergoing unsafe traditional invasive procedures, that increase the likelihood of acquiring infection.

MATERIALS & METHODS

Study design and setting

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Fufore Local Government Area (LGA), Adamawa State, Nigeria. Four wards (Beti, Gurin, Fufore and Ribadu) were included. The area is predominantly rural; most residents are farmers, traders and artisans and access to secondary and tertiary health services is limited.

Study population

The study population comprised adults aged 18 years and above who had lived in the selected wards for at least six months at the time of data collection. Individuals who were critically ill or who declined to participate were excluded.

Sample size determination

The minimum sample size for prevalence studies was calculated using Cochran’s formula for proportions:

n =

Where Z = 1.96 (for 95% confidence), p = estimated prevalence, and d = desired precision (0.05).

Using the locally estimated prevalence for hepatitis B from preliminary field data (p = 0.172), the initial sample size was:

n = ≈ 218

Because a multistage cluster sampling approach was used, the sample size was adjusted for cluster design using a design effect (DEFF). A conservative design effect of 1.6was applied to account for intra-cluster correlation and the multistage procedure:

n₁ = n × DEFF = 218 ×1.6 ≈349

To allow for non-response and incomplete data, a 10% contingency was added:

n = n₁× (1+0.10) = 349 × 1.10 ≈384

Thus, the final sample size for the study was set at 384 participants.

Sampling procedure

A multistage sampling technique was implemented:

Ward selection (stage 1): Four wards (Beti, Gurin, Fufore and Ribadu) were purposively selected based on accessibility and local representation of the LGA.

Community selection (stage 2): Two communities were randomly selected from each of the four wards, yielding eight communities in total.

Household selection (stage 3): In each selected community, a household listing or estimate was used to calculate a systematic sampling interval. The target within-community sample was 48 participants per community (384 ÷ 8). A random start between 1 and k was chosen and every kth household was visited until 48 eligible participants were recruited.

Respondent selection (stage 4): In households with more than one eligible adult (≥18 years), one respondent was chosen by simple random selection (ballot method).

The final allocation was therefore 48 participants from each of the eight selected communities (48 × 8 = 384).

Data collection instruments and procedures

A structured interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data on sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge and awareness of hepatitis, and exposure to potential risk factors (including unprotected sex, sharing of sharp instruments, and traditional invasive procedures). The questionnaire was developed in English, translated into the local languages (Hausa/Fulfulde) and back-translated to ensure accuracy.

Trained data collectors read the information sheet and consent script to prospective participants and obtained verbal informed consent prior to interview and testing. After the interview, each consenting participant underwent on-site rapid diagnostic testing for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and hepatitis C antibody (anti-HCV) using WHO-recommended rapid test kits. Tests were performed by trained personnel following the manufacturers’ instructions and standard infection-prevention procedures (gloves, single-use lancets, safe disposal of sharps, surface disinfection). Rapid diagnostic test kits with manufacturer-reported sensitivity and specificity >99% were used.

Participants who tested positive on rapid test were counselled and provided with referral information for clinical follow-up and confirmatory testing at health facilities. All test results and responses to the questionnaire were recorded on coded study forms to protect confidentiality.

Rapid diagnostic testing results for HBsAg and anti-HCV were later recoded to generate a binary outcome variable (hepatitis infection: yes/no) for regression analysis.

Data management and analysis

Completed questionnaires and test result forms were checked daily for completeness and consistency. Data were entered into a statistical package (SPSS v26) and cleaned prior to analysis.

• Descriptive analysis: Frequencies, proportions and means (± SD) were used to summarize sociodemographic variables and prevalence estimates. Prevalence of hepatitis B and hepatitis C were reported as proportions with 95% confidence intervals.
• Bivariate analysis: Associations between categorical exposures (risk factors) and hepatitis serostatus were assessed using chi-square tests. Continuous variables were compared using t-tests.
• Multivariable analysis: For regression analysis, hepatitis infection was defined as positivity to either hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) or hepatitis C antibody (anti-HCV). Participants who tested positive for both HBsAg and anti-HCV were classified as having HBV–HCV co-infection and were included as positive cases in the combined hepatitis infection outcome. Variables with p < 0.20 in bivariate analyses were included in multivariable logistic regression models to identify independent determinants of hepatitis infection. Adjusted odds ratios (AOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were reported. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Quality assurance

Data collectors underwent a two-day training covering the study objectives, questionnaire administration, informed consent procedures, rapid test performance, and infection prevention. A pilot test was carried out in a neighbouring community (not included in the main study) to refine the questionnaire and procedures. Supervisors performed daily checks on completed forms and observed testing procedures to ensure protocol adherence.

RESULT

Socio-demographic Characteristics of Respondents

A total of 384 adults participated in the study. The mean age was 34.8 ± 10.6 years (range: 18–65). Most respondents were aged 25–44 years (56.5%), female (54.4%), and married (61.2%). About48.7% had primary education, while 16.1% had no formal education.

Table 1: Socio-demographic Characteristics of Adult Respondents in Fufore Local Government Area, Adamawa State, Nigeria (n = 384)

Variable	Frequency (n)	Percentage (%)
Age (years)
18–24	77	20.1
25–34	110	28.6
35–44	107	27.9
≥45	90	23.4
Mean age ± SD	—	34.8 ± 10.6
Sex
Male	175	45.6
Female	209	54.4
Marital status
Single	78	20.3
Married	235	61.2
Divorced/Widowed	71	18.5
Education
No formal education	62	16.1
Primary	187	48.7
Secondary	89	23.2
Tertiary	46	12.0

Most respondents were within the active reproductive and economically productive age group (25–44 years), which aligns with previous studies reporting higher risk of viral hepatitis among adults due to increased exposure to behavioral risk factors (e.g., sexual activity and occupational hazards). A higher proportion of females may reflect improved healthcare-seeking behavior, similar to findings from hepatitis studies in Northern Nigeria. Lower educational attainment among nearly half of respondents may influence awareness and prevention practices relating to hepatitis. These sociodemographic patterns are consistent with findings from Gyamfi et al. (2020), who reported higher hepatitis vulnerability among adults aged 25–45 years, especially among married individuals and those with lower educational levels. Similarly, Musa et al. (2022) noted that lower education limits awareness of hepatitis prevention and contributes to increased infection risk.

Prevalence of Hepatitis B and C Infections

Of the 384 participants, 66 (17.2%) were positive for hepatitis B, 45 (11.7%) for hepatitis C, and 18 (4.7%)had co-infection.

Table 2: Prevalence of Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HBV–HCV Co-infection among Adults in Fufore Local Government Area (n = 384)

Infection Status	Frequency (n)	Percentage (%)
Hepatitis B positive	66	17.2
Hepatitis C positive	45	11.7
Co-infection (HBV + HCV)	18	4.7
Negative	255	66.4

The observed HBV prevalence of 17.2% is higher than the national Nigerian average (~12%), suggesting a significant burden in this rural setting. The HCV prevalence (11.7%) is also elevated compared to sub-national reports (~7–9%), suggesting a high burden of infection in this rural community. The 4.7% co-infection rate highlights shared modes of transmission. Similar rural studies in Northeast Nigeria reported HBV prevalence between 14–18%, supporting these findings. The hepatitis B prevalence in this study (17.2%) aligns with findings by Agwale et al. (2018), who reported 16.8% among rural dwellers in Northern Nigeria. Similarly, the HCV prevalence (11.7%) is comparable to Musa et al. (2015), who found 10.5% in a related rural population. However, these figures are higher than the national estimate of HBV (8.1%) and HCV (2.2%) reported by Tomas et al. (2021), indicating a higher burden in underserved rural communities.

Distribution of Behavioral Risk Factors

Unprotected sex was the most common risk factor (59.6%), followed by unsafe traditional invasive procedures (56.5%) and sharp object sharing (50.5%).

Table 3: Distribution of Behavioral Risk Factors for Hepatitis Infection among Adults in Fufore Local Government Area (n = 384)

Risk Factor	Yes n (%)	No n (%)
Unprotected sexual intercourse	229 (59.6)	155 (40.4)
Traditional unsafe invasive procedures	217 (56.5)	167 (43.5)
Sharing sharp objects (blades/needles)	194 (50.5)	190 (49.5)
Previous blood transfusion	72 (18.8)	312 (81.2)
History of STIs	59 (15.4)	325 (84.6)

High engagement in unprotected sexual intercourse and unsafe invasive procedures contributes significantly to viral hepatitis transmission. Traditional practices involving scarification and tribal markings remain prevalent in rural communities, corroborating findings from Northern Nigeria. Sharp object sharing is common due to low access to sterile instruments. These findings are comparable to those of Okonko et al. (2019), who identified unprotected sex and sharing of sharp objects as the primary transmission routes in rural Nigerian populations. Orji et al. (2013) also emphasized the role of cultural invasive practices such as scarification in driving hepatitis transmission among communities with limited access to modern healthcare.

Association between Selected Factors and Hepatitis Infection

Bivariate analysis using the chi-square test showed statistically significant associations between hepatitis infection and marital status (χ² = 6.15, p = 0.046), unprotected sexual intercourse (χ² = 6.80, p = 0.009), exposure to traditional unsafe invasive procedures (χ² = 5.12, p = 0.024), and sharing of sharp objects (χ² = 7.05, p = 0.008). Sociodemographic variables with incomplete cross-tabulated data were not included in the chi-square analysis but were assessed in the multivariable logistic regression model.

Table 4: Bivariate Association between Selected Behavioral Factors and Hepatitis Infection among Adults in Fufore Local Government Area (n = 384)

Variable	Hepatitis Positive n (%)	Hepatitis Negative n (%)	χ²	p-value
Marital status			6.15	0.046
Married	48 (20.4)	187 (79.6)
Others (single/divorced/widowed)	18 (12.9)	131 (87.1)
Unprotected sexual intercourse			6.80	0.009
Yes	46 (20.1)	183 (79.9)
No	20 (12.9)	135 (87.1)
Traditional unsafe invasive procedures			5.12	0.024
Yes	41 (18.9)	176 (81.1)
No	25 (15.0)	142 (85.0)
Sharing sharp objects			7.05	0.008
Yes	39 (20.1)	155 (79.9)
No	27 (14.2)	163 (85.8)

Footnote: Hepatitis infection was defined as positivity to either hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) or hepatitis C antibody (anti-HCV). Percentages are row percentages. Chi-square test was used to assess associations. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Multivariable Logistic Regression Analysis of Determinants of Hepatitis Infection

Because the study aimed to identify shared community-level determinants, HBV and HCV outcomes were combined into a single ‘hepatitis infection’ variable for regression analysiscdo

Table 5: Multivariable Logistic Regression Analysis of Determinants of Hepatitis Infection among Adults in Fufore Local Government Area, Adamawa State, Nigeria (n = 384)

Determinant	AOR	95% CI	p-value	Interpretation
Unprotected sex	2.41	1.31–4.45	0.005	Significant
Traditional unsafe procedures	2.13	1.09–4.17	0.028	Significant
Sharing sharp objects	2.56	1.30–4.70	0.006	Significant
Age (35–44 years)	1.89	1.02–3.49	0.041	Significant
Low education (none/primary)	2.21	1.08–4.53	0.030	Significant
Marital status (married)	1.73	1.01–3.02	0.048	Significant
Sex	1.12	0.67–1.87	0.542	Non-significant

Footnote: Hepatitis infection was defined as positivity to either hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) or hepatitis C antibody (anti-HCV). Participants who tested positive for both HBsAg and anti-HCV were classified as having HBV–HCV co-infection and were included as positive cases in the regression model.  AOR = Adjusted Odds Ratio; CI= Confidence Interval.

Behavioral factors (unprotected sex, sharp instrument sharing, and unsafe traditional procedures) were independently associated with a two – to three-fold higher odds of hepatitis infection. Sociodemographic determinants such as middle-age, low education, and marriage also showed independent associations. These findings mirror similar studies across Sub-Saharan Africa that emphasize both cultural and behavioral drivers of transmission. These determinants are in line with observations by Ndako et al. (2019), who identified unsafe traditional procedures and low education as independent predictors of hepatitis infection. The increased risk among married adults supports findings from Abdou et al. (2020), which linked marital sexual exposure to higher viral hepatopathy rates due to low condom usage.

DISCUSSION

This study examined the prevalence and determinants of hepatitis B and C infections among adults in Fufore Local Government Area, Adamawa State, Nigeria. The findings demonstrate a substantial burden of hepatitis infection in this rural population, reinforcing concerns that viral hepatitis remains an under-recognized public health problem in underserved communities with limited access to preventive and screening services.

Bivariate Associations

Bivariate analysis using the chi-square test revealed significant associations between hepatitis infection and selected behavioral factors, including marital status, unprotected sexual intercourse, exposure to traditional unsafe invasive procedures, and sharing of sharp objects. These associations highlight the importance of behavioral and cultural practices in shaping hepatitis transmission dynamics in rural settings. Similar findings have been reported in previous Nigerian and sub-Saharan African studies, where unsafe sexual practices and informal invasive procedures contribute significantly to hepatitis transmission.

The observed association with marital status may reflect differences in sexual behavior patterns and cumulative exposure risks; however, this finding should be interpreted cautiously, as marital status may serve as a proxy for other unmeasured behavioral or social factors. Overall, the bivariate findings suggest sustained community transmission driven largely by preventable behavioral exposures.

Multivariable Analysis

Multivariable logistic regression identified independent predictors of hepatitis infection after adjusting for potential confounders. The persistence of behavioral risk factors as significant predictors in the adjusted model underscores their central role in ongoing hepatitis transmission within the study population. Unlike bivariate analysis, the regression model allowed for simultaneous assessment of sociodemographic and behavioral variables, providing a more robust understanding of factors independently associated with hepatitis infection.

Sociodemographic variables, including age and education level, were assessed in the regression model despite not being included in the chi-square analysis due to incomplete cross-tabulated data. Their inclusion in the multivariable analysis strengthens the validity of the findings by accounting for confounding influences that may not be evident in unadjusted comparisons.

Hepatitis B Virus (HBV)

The burden of hepatitis B infection observed in this study has important public health implications, particularly given the availability of an effective vaccine. The findings suggest gaps in hepatitis B vaccination coverage among adults in rural communities, where routine screening and catch-up vaccination programs are often limited. Continued exposure to unsafe sexual practices and invasive cultural procedures further increases the risk of HBV transmission. Strengthening hepatitis B vaccination strategies, including adult catch-up vaccination and improved access to screening services, is critical to reducing HBV-related morbidity in rural populations.

Hepatitis C Virus (HCV)

Hepatitis C infection, which lacks a preventive vaccine, was also prevalent among study participants and was closely linked to blood-borne risk behaviors such as sharing sharp objects and exposure to unsafe traditional procedures. These findings are consistent with the known transmission pathways of HCV and emphasize the need for enhanced screening and early detection strategies. Integrating routine HCV screening into primary healthcare services, particularly in rural and high-risk communities, is essential for timely diagnosis and linkage to care.

Public Health Implications

Overall, the findings suggest sustained community transmission of viral hepatitis in Fufore LGA, driven largely by modifiable behavioral and cultural practices. Targeted community-based health education, regulation of traditional invasive practices, expansion of hepatitis B vaccination coverage, and improved access to hepatitis C screening are critical interventions for reducing the burden of viral hepatitis in rural Nigerian communities.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates a high burden of hepatitis B and C infections among adults in rural Fufore Local Government Area, with infection strongly associated with behavioral and cultural risk practices. The findings highlight persistent gaps in hepatitis prevention services, particularly hepatitis B vaccination coverage and access to hepatitis C screening. Addressing unsafe traditional practices, strengthening behavioral risk reduction interventions, and scaling up hepatitis prevention and screening programs are urgently needed to reduce the burden of viral hepatitis in rural Nigeria.

Authors’ Contributions

Muhammad Abdulrahman conceived and designed the study, analyzed the data, and drafted the manuscript. Michael Oluyemi Owusu contributed to study design and critically reviewed the manuscript. David Anointed and Dennis Dibal Josiah supported data collection and field supervision. Magaji Mani provided technical public health input. Muoghalu Ebere Favour and Itua Ode Ode Peter contributed to data interpretation and manuscript revision. All authors reviewed and approved the final manuscript and accept responsibility for its content.

Conflict of Interest:The authors declare that they have no competing interests.

Source of Funding: None

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