Awareness regarding hepatitis B immunization among preclinical Indian dental students

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), a DNA virus with a human-only reservoir, is a worldwide public health problem. Approximately 45.0% of the world’s population is considered to live in areas of high endemicity with a lifetime risk of infection of more than 60.0%. The present study aimed to assess the level of understanding and awareness about Hepatitis B immunization among the first and second year dental students at a private dental institution in Mangalore, Karnataka, India. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was carried out using a self-administered pretested questionnaire containing 10 questions on awareness about prevention and transmission, diagnosis and treatment of Hepatitis B, vaccination status of hepatitis B, and awareness of students regarding post exposure prophylaxis. Descriptive analysis was carried out and was presented as number. Student’s t-test was used to determine any significant differences between the genders, and year of study. RESULTS: The response rate was 100% (n = 179). About 59.7% of the students were aware of the Hepatitis B infection and its effects. Majority of the students (91.0%) were immunized by hepatitis B vaccine. Majority of the students (96.0%) felt it was necessary to be immunized against the Hepatitis B virus. About 69.8% of the students were aware of post exposure prophylaxis against Hepatitis B. A vast majority (96.0%) of the students felt that awareness about immunization against Hepatitis B among the community is necessary. CONCLUSION: Majority of the students are aware of Hepatitis B, its infection, its vaccination, and its importance.