Investigating Risk Factors for Hepatitis B Infection: A Case-Control Study

Abstract

Background: Hepatitis B is a potentially life-threatening liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). The disease places a significant burden on global health and effective prevention strategies are needed.

Aim: To identify demographic, lifestyle and medical factors associated with risk of Hepatitis B infection.

Methods: A case-control study was conducted including 400 Hepatitis B cases and 800 controls. Data on socio-demographic characteristics, occupation, education level, marital status, vaccination status, other infections, chronic conditions, lifestyle factors and viral load were collected and compared between cases and controls.

Results: Healthcare workers, previous Hepatitis B infection, other infections, chronic diseases, poor sleep, higher stress, and lower physical activity were more common among cases. Hepatitis B vaccination rates were similarly high in both groups.  ender, education and alcohol consumption were not significant risk factors. Machine earning identified vaccination status and low viral load as the most important factors for reducing transmission risk.

Conclusion: Several modifiable and non-modifiable factors influence Hepatitis B infection risk. Hepatitis B vaccination, viral load monitoring and targeted interventions for high-risk groups can help reduce the impact of the disease. Further large studies are needed to confirm these findings.