Status of HBsAg seroprevalence in 15 million rural couples in China: a cross-sectional study

Sci Rep. 2017 Feb 21:7:42822. doi: 10.1038/srep42822.

Abstract

A cross-sectional analysis of prevalence of hepatitis B virus infection (HBV) among rural couples was conducted between 2010 and 2014. Serologic HBV markers, including hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and e antigen (HBeAg), were tested. Primary outcome of interest comprised HBsAg positivity in couples (both positive: F+M+, only wife positive: F+M-, only husband positive: F-M+), and secondary outcome consisted of prevalence and risk factors of HBsAg positivity among husbands or wives. Of 14,816,300 couples included, 0.7% were F+M+; 6.3% were F-M+; 4.4% were F+M-, resulting in the overall seroprevalence of 11.4%. Individually, 6.1% were HBsAg positive with a higher rate seen in husbands (7.0%) than in wives (5.2%). Wife's HBeAg(+)/HBsAg (+) (AOR = 2.61), HBeAg(-)/HBsAg (+) (AOR = 2.23), positivity of syphilis (AOR = 1.50), living in a high-risk region (AOR = 1.46) were significantly predictors of HBsAg positivity in husbands. Prevalence and predictors of HBsAg positivity in wives had similar results. Our data show a high burden and discordant pattern of HBV infection in rural couples, and partner's double positivity of HBeAg and HBsAg was the most significant factor of HBV infection in couples. A comprehensive strategy that emphasizes vaccination and education is needed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • China / epidemiology
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Family Characteristics
  • Female
  • Hepatitis B / diagnosis*
  • Hepatitis B / epidemiology
  • Hepatitis B Surface Antigens / blood*
  • Hepatitis B e Antigens / blood
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Prevalence
  • Risk Factors
  • Rural Population
  • Syphilis / diagnosis
  • Syphilis / epidemiology
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Hepatitis B Surface Antigens
  • Hepatitis B e Antigens