Knowledge, attitude, and risk factors of hepatitis B among waste scavengers in Lagos, Nigeria

Background: Hepatitis B is a major global health problem with a higher prevalence among waste workers compared to the general population. Inefficient waste segregation techniques and the unique property of hepatitis B whereby it can survive outside the body for about a week puts waste scavengers at a significant risk of this disease. The study aims to assess the knowledge and attitude toward hepatitis B and identify the risk factors of hepatitis B among waste scavengers in Lagos, Nigeria. Methods: In a descriptive cross-sectional study, information was obtained from waste scavengers using interviewer administered questionnaires. Respondents were selected consecutively. Data were analyzed using Epi Info™ version 7.2.2.6 and MS-Excel. The associations between variables were considered statistically significant if the two-tailed probability is <5%. Results: Out of 417 respondents, 51 (12.0%) were aware of hepatitis B. Among those aware, 95.0% had poor knowledge of hepatitis B. Majority (87.5%) had a negative attitude toward hepatitis B. The prevalence of needle stick injuries and exposure to blood was 46.5% and 25.7%, respectively. There is also a statistically significant association between the age and level of education of respondents and their attitude toward hepatitis B. Conclusions: Overall knowledge and attitude toward hepatitis B among respondents was poor. Exposure of the respondents at work to risk factors of hepatitis B was high as majority reported presence of used syringes and bloody materials in the waste. Health education programs focused on enlightening waste scavengers about hepatitis B should be organized.