Sero-Prevalence of Hepatitis C Virus Infection Among Female Sex Workers and Men Who Have Sex with Men in Kaduna State, Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection remains a global public health concern, with key populations such as female sex workers (FSWs) and men who have sex with men (MSM) at higher risk of acquisition and transmission due to high-risk sexual practices, unsafe injection practices, and limited access to preventive healthcare. Nigeria bears a significant burden of HCV, yet data on seroprevalence in these key populations remain sparse, especially in northern regions like Kaduna State.

Objective: This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of HCV infection among FSWs and MSM in Kaduna State, Nigeria, and to identify associated demographic and behavioral risk factors.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among consenting FSWs and MSM ≥ 18 years in Kaduna State, Northwestern Nigeria. Participants were recruited using respondent-driven sampling (RDS) and screened for anti-HCV antibodies using rapid diagnostic test kits. Socio-demographic and behavioral data were collected via structured interviewer-administered questionnaires. Data analysis was performed using SPSS, with chi-square tests and logistic regression to identify significant predictors of HCV seropositivity.

Results: A total of 235 participants were enrolled, comprising 118 FSWs and 117 MSM. The overall seroprevalence of HCV was found to be 5.5% (13/235), with higher prevalence of 6.8% (8/118) observed among FSWs than 4.3% (5/117) in MSM. No significant associations were identified between HCV seropositivity and factors such as history of injecting drug use, multiple sexual partners, condom non-use, and history of sexually transmitted infections (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The study revealed a notable burden of HCV infection among FSWs and MSM in Kaduna State, highlighting the need for targeted interventions such as routine HCV screening, harm reduction programs, sexual health education, and linkage to care. Enhanced surveillance among key populations is crucial to achieving HCV elimination goals in Nigeria.

Keywords: Hepatitis C, seroprevalence, female sex workers, men who have sex with men, key populations, Kaduna State, Nigeria, risk factors