Factors predisposing to hepatitis B viral infection among psychoactive substance users in Nateete, Kampala district, Uganda. A cross-sectional study.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v7i3.2411Keywords:
Hepatitis B virus, Psychoactive substance use, Risky sexual behavior, public health, Nateete, Kampala districtAbstract
Background:
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a major global public health concern, particularly among high-risk populations such as psychoactive substance users. This study assessed factors predisposing to HBV infection among psychoactive substance users in Nateete, Kampala District.
Methodology:
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 psychoactive substance users in Nateete Parish, Lubaga Division, Kampala District. Participants were selected using simple random sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires. Data were entered into Microsoft Excel and analyzed using SPSS version 20. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages, were used to summarize findings.
Results:
The majority of participants were female (73.3%), aged 26–45 years (86.7%), and unemployed (60%). Predisposing factors to HBV infection included low income (40% earning ≤5,000 UGX monthly), unemployment, multiple sexual partnerships (40% reporting more than two partners), and prolonged residence in the area. Alcohol was the most commonly used substance (37.3%), followed by khat (26.7%) and marijuana (21.3%).
Conclusion:
Psychoactive substance users in Nateete are exposed to multiple socioeconomic and behavioral factors that increase their vulnerability to HBV infection, particularly unemployment, low income, risky sexual practices, and alcohol use.
Recommendations:
There is a need to strengthen targeted HBV screening and vaccination programs among substance users, integrate harm-reduction services with sexual health education, improve access to affordable vaccination, and implement community-based awareness campaigns focusing on high-risk populations in urban informal settlements.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Dan Moses Lubwama Tusubira , Emmanuel Kafero , Hasifah Nansereko, Franscisco Ssemuwemba, Jane Frank Nalubega, Immaculate Prosperia Naggulu
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