Prevalence of Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Among Blood Donors at Federal Medical Centre, Owerri, Imo State

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a major transfusion-transmissible infection in sub-Saharan Africa, with Nigeria bearing one of the highest prevalence burdens globally. This retrospective descriptive study determined the prevalence of Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) among blood donors attending the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owerri, Imo State, in the South East geopolitical zone of Nigeria. Donor records spanning January 2021 to December 2023 were reviewed, covering 2,400 screened individuals. HBsAg detection was performed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The overall HBsAg seroprevalence was 9.8 percent. Male donors had a significantly higher positivity rate than female donors. Voluntary non-remunerated donors demonstrated lower seroprevalence compared to replacement donors. Age group analysis revealed that individuals between 20 and 35 years had the highest prevalence rates. These findings highlight the continued risk of HBV transmission through blood transfusion in the South East and corroborate recent national seroprevalence data. The study recommends mandatory pre-donation screening for all blood donors, sustained public enlightenment campaigns on HBV vaccination, and the exclusive use of voluntary non-remunerated donors in the national blood supply system. Institutional strengthening of blood bank services at FMC Owerri is equally advocated. Keywords: hepatitis B, blood donors, seroprevalence, Owerri, transfusion safety.