Seroprevalence of hepatitis B virus infection, anti-HCV antibodies and HIV and knowledge among people who use drugs attending methadone therapy clinic in Tanzania; a cross-sectional study

Abstract Background Methadone therapy clinics have been recently introduced in Tanzania, aiming at reducing risk behaviors and infection rates of viral hepatitis HIV among people who use drugs. The objective this study was to estimate the prevalence, associated factors knowledge level these conditions drugs attending a methadone clinic Tanzania. Methods We enrolled 253 People using receiving therapy. Clinical data retrospectively collected from medical records face-to face interviews were conducted determine behavioral respondents’ on HIV. Results An overall seroprevalence (either B surface antigen or anti-hepatitis C virus) 6.3%, while that virus mono 3.5% antibodies 3.5%. Seroprevalence 12.6%. Viral strongly predicted by advanced age (> 35 years) ( p = 0.02) staying Kirumba area 0.004), increased 37 0.04) female sex < 0.001). Regarding hepatitis, majority respondents unaware transmission methods availability vaccines only 17% classified as well informed (provided ≥4 correct answers out 7 questions). Good highly higher education individual Conclusions Despite efforts curb infections through clinics, are still high general preventive measures is inadequate.