Knowledge, Awareness, and Vaccination Compliance of Hepatitis B among the General Population in Aseer Region

Abstract

Background: The current study aimed to assess knowledge, awareness, and vaccination compliance of hepatitis B virus (HBV). HBV infection remains a public health problem worldwide. Furthermore, poor disease awareness, low diagnosis rates, and nonadherence to therapy amplify the disease burden. Methods: A cross-sectional web-based study was conducted in Southern Saudi Arabia to assess public knowledge and awareness about HBV and vaccination in the Aseer region. Participants aged 18 years and above were enrolled, and an online questionnaire was developed. The questionnaire included demographic data and knowledge about HBV vaccination. The study was published on social media platforms, with participants encouraged to participate and confidentiality clarified. The final questionnaire was uploaded until no new answers were obtained. Results: A total of 916 eligible participants completed the study questionnaire. Participants’ ages ranged from 18 to more than 60 years with a mean age of 33.1 ± 11.9 years old. Exact of 647 (70.6%) participants were males. Exact of 355 (38.8%) of the study participants received the HBV vaccine. Only 180 (19.7%) had a good knowledge level, 368 (40.2%) had an average knowledge level, and 368 (40.2%) had a poor knowledge level about HBV and vaccines. High education, working in the medical field, and having a family history of HBV infection were significantly associated with a high knowledge level (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The study found fair public awareness of HBV in the Aseer region, but a lack of knowledge about transmission and prevention. Most know about the HBV vaccine, but coverage is below the World Health Organization recommended.

Keywords

• awareness
• hepatitis b virus
• knowledge
• population
• saudi arabia
• vaccination
• viral infection