TITLE:
Seroprevalence of Viral Hepatitis B among Blood Donors in Mbuji Mayi, Democratic Republic of the Congo
AUTHORS:
André Kabongu Kalala, Darla Ngondu Cibangu, Stéphanie Mbelu Kanyinda, Claude Muamba Mubalamata, Joris Losimba Likwela
KEYWORDS:
Seroprevalence, Viral Hepatitis B, Blood Donors, Mbuji Mayi
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Biosciences and Medicines,
Vol.14 No.2,
February
6,
2026
ABSTRACT: Background: Viral hepatitis B is a major and growing public health problem worldwide, potentially causing severe complications ranging from chronicity to liver cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and death. However, its frequency remains poorly documented in most developing countries, particularly in the DRC. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of hepatitis B among the blood donor population in Mbuji Mayi, to provide local evidence that could inform appropriate public health measures. Methods: A cross-sectional, analytical, and retrospective study was conducted, involving 806 blood donors who received from January 2020 to December 2024 in the blood bank of two healthcare facilities in the city of Mbuji Mayi. Data collected via a Kobocollect electronic questionnaire were copied into Excel software and then imported for analysis in Stata 15. A logistic regression model was used to identify factors associated with HBsAg positivity. Results: HBsAg seroprevalence was 14.3% over 5 years, or 115 cases out of 806 blood donors. Among the 806 registered blood donors, 78.5% were male with a mean age of 31 years. 3% of donors reported a history of hepatitis B, and nearly 40% had previously received a blood transfusion. Only 4.3% of donors tested positive for STIs. The majority of donors (88.3%) reported having received a hepatitis B vaccination. Logistic regression revealed that vaccination was a major protective factor (aOR = 2.3; 95% CI: 1.2 - 4.4), and those with a history of hepatitis B had a significantly increased risk (aOR = 4.4; 95% CI: 2.7 - 6.9). Conclusion: Viral hepatitis B is still a reality in our communities; preventive measures such as vaccination, systematic screening campaigns, and health education are crucial to improving transfusion safety.