: 10.56472/25835238/IRJEMS-V4I12P106
Omokan Adekemi Olubunmi, Dr. Clement Ogbaini. "An Assessment of the Prevalence of Hepatitis C Virus among Pregnant Women and People Living in Nigeria: A Case Study of LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso" International Research Journal of Economics and Management Studies, Vol. 4, No. 12, pp. 49-58, 2025. Crossref. http://doi.org/10.56472/25835238/IRJEMS-V4I12P106
This study assesses the prevalence of Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection among pregnant women and individuals living in Nigeria, with a specific focus on LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso. The study seeks to determine the infection rate, associated risk factors, and levels of awareness among respondents. A cross-sectional research design was adopted using structured questionnaires and laboratory screening for anti-HCV antibodies. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the chi-square test. Findings reveal that HCV infection, though relatively low in prevalence compared to other viral infections, poses a significant health challenge among high-risk groups such as blood donors, people living with HIV, and pregnant women. Risk factors such as blood transfusion, unsterilized instruments, and multiple sexual partners were observed to influence infection rates. The study concludes that increased awareness, routine antenatal screening, and improved infection control measures are vital for reducing transmission.
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Hepatitis C Virus, Pregnant Women, Prevalence, Public Health, Nigeria, LAUTECH Teaching Hospital.