Assessment of Practices Regarding Hepatitis B Infection and Its Prevention among Undergraduate Students of a Government Medical College in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India

Abstract

Introduction: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) poses a significant occupational risk to healthcare workers, including medical students. Assessing their preventive practices is critical to mitigate future transmission risks within healthcare settings. Objectives: This study aimed to assess practices related to Hepatitis B infection and its prevention, and to identify associated factors among medical undergraduates. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from April to November 2019, among 573 MBBS students at a government medical college in Western Uttar Pradesh. Data were collected via a semi-structured, pretested questionnaire, capturing socio-demographic details and responses on HBV practices. Practice scores were categorized as good, average, or poor. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 29 (trial version), applying Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests to assess associations. Results: Out of 600 eligible undergraduate students, 573 responded (96% response rate). Most students (97.2%) exhibited good preventive practices. However, only 74.5% were vaccinated, and a mere 18.8% had ever been tested for HBV. Razor-sharing was reported by 24.3%, highlighting risky behaviour. Lower professional years exhibited higher percentage of good practices. Professional year showed a statistically significant association with practice levels (p=0.01). Conclusion: A high proportion of students (97.2%) reported having good practices, however gaps persist in vaccination coverage, testing, and health education participation. Strengthening behavioural interventions, integrating routine HBV screening, and emphasizing preventive training throughout medical education are essential to ensure sustained safe practices.