Hepatitis B awareness among students: Gaps and challenges

Abstract

Hepatitis B remains a significant public health challenge worldwide. University students represent a vulnerable population due to gaps in awareness, misconceptions about transmission, and insufficient vaccination coverage. This descriptive cross-sectional study aimed to assess the level of awareness among students at Al-Hadi University, Technical College, in Baghdad. A total of 110 students participated through an online questionnaire. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 21 with a significance level of p≤0.05. The results revealed that although awareness was moderate, misconceptions about certain modes of transmission persisted. Notably, only about 60% reported receiving the hepatitis B vaccine. These findings indicate the need for targeted awareness programs, improved vaccination campaigns, and routine screening to prevent hepatitis B spread among university students.