Cross Sectional Survey on the Burden and Impacts of Chronic Hepatitis B in the Rural Area of Niakhar, Senegal

The prevalence of chronic HBV infection in Senegal is among the highest worldwide (10% to 17%) but available prevalence estimates relie on studies conducted in specific subgroups (such as military, pregnant women or blood donors).

The prevalence of HBV chronic infection remains undocumented in the general population of Senegal, and its health-related and socio-economic consequences need to be estimated.

This research is based on a cross-sectional survey conducted in the general population with collection of biological, socio-behavioral and economic data at two levels (at the participants' home and in healthcare centers) in the area of Niakhar (located at 135 kms at the East of Dakar).

The research includes three phases as follows:

(i) Preliminary phase: information and communication about the research within the community, training of stakeholders and pilot survey

(ii) Collection of data in the general population

(iii) Communication of results on HBV status to participants and collection of additional data among HBV chronic individuals

Inclusion criteria

(i) Living in a household of the research zone (individuals living within participating households for at least 6 months, even non permanently: seasonal workers or individuals studying outside the Niakhar zone)

(ii) Being aged of at least 6 months

(iii) Giving informed consent to participate in the research

Exclusion criteria

(i) Being an adult unable to sign informed consent

(ii) Being a child whose parents or legal guardian is not present in the household at the time of the survey