Prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen carrier state among antenatal mothers in Western Province of Sri Lanka.

Abstract

To assess the risk of perinatal transmission of hepatitis B in Western province of Sri Lanka, by assessing the prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) carrier state among antenatal mothers. To assess the prevalence of exposure to hepatitis B virus and factors associated with such exposure among this population. A multi-stage cluster sampling was done with the field antenatal clinic as the final cluster. Venous blood samples and data were collected from selected antenatal mothers after obtaining informed consent.