Assessment of hepatitis B viral load suppression levels among HBV-infected patients on antiretroviral drugs at university teaching hospital of Butare (CHUB).

Abstract

Background: HBV infection is still a major global health concern with about 1.5 million new cases of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection occurring annually, and an estimated 296 million people worldwide live with chronic hepatitis B infection (Al-Busafi & Alwassief, 2024). As well, there are still limited statistics showing viral load suppression and non-suppression levels in Rwanda, and even in the entire East African region. Therefore, this study will determine the prevalence of Hepatitis B viral load suppression and non-suppression among HBV-infected patients on antivirals attending CHUB. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted within 3 months, whereby Hepatitis B viral loads data for HBV-infected patients were collected from the VLSMS system and OpenMRS (Open Medical Records System). The obtained data were analyzed using SPSS software, discussed against other studies, and a conclusion was established; thereafter, recommendations were raised for necessary users. Results: A sample size of 64 participants determined the prevalence of viral load suppression in 51 (79.7%) of participants whose viral load was less than 2000 IU/mL, whereas the prevalence of non-suppression was 13 (20.3%). Of 64 participants, 63 (98.4%) were treated with Tenofavir while only 1 (1.6%) was taking Entecavir. Conclusion: As a conclusion this study determined the prevalence of Hepatitis B viral load suppression level of 79.7% and non-suppression level of 20.3%. Comparing viral load results before taking ART(baseline) with Current results after one year on ART demonstrated significant HBV DNA suppression. Ages people raised the number of non-suppression more than younger ones. As well, male people reduced the number of non-suppression rate more than males. Therefore, Further studies are needed to prove the relationship between age and gender using bigger of sample size.