Prevalence and Risk Factors of Hepatitis B and C Co-Infection Among HIV-Positive Patients at UITH Ilorin, North Central Nigeria

Triple infection with HIV, hepatitis B virus, and hepatitis C virus poses complex clinical management challenges and accelerates liver disease progression, necessitating targeted serological surveillance in high-burden settings. This study determined the prevalence and risk factors of HBV and HCV co-infection among HIV-positive patients at University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Kwara State, North Central Nigeria. A cross-sectional study enrolled 250 HIV-positive adults attending the antiretroviral therapy clinic. Serum samples were tested for hepatitis B surface antigen by rapid immunochromatographic method and confirmed by ELISA, and anti-HCV antibody by ELISA. CD4 cell counts and clinical staging were retrieved from patient records. Structured questionnaires captured risk factor data. HBsAg seroprevalence was 14.0% and anti-HCV was 6.0%, with triple co-infection detected in 2.8% of patients. HBV co-infection was significantly associated with unprotected sexual intercourse, multiple sexual partners, and absence of HBV vaccination. HCV co-infection was associated with history of surgical procedures and blood transfusion. Co-infected patients had lower median CD4 counts than mono-infected counterparts. Liver enzyme elevations were more frequent in co-infected patients. The study recommends routine HBV and HCV serological screening for all HIV patients at ART enrolment, integration of hepatitis B vaccination into HIV care, and risk reduction counselling at ART clinics across North Central Nigeria. Keywords: HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, co-infection, Ilorin