Risk behaviours related to hepatitis B virus infection among adults in Malaysia: A cross-sectional household survey

Background: The objective of this study was to identify the magnitude of various risk behaviours related to Hepatitis B (HepB) and to characterize the relationship between socio-demographic determinants and these risk factors among adults in Malaysia. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study in nine districts in the state of Selangor in 2016. A two-stage cluster sampling design was used and adults aged 20 years or above who were living in the selected living quarters were interviewed face-to-face. A multivariable linear regression model analysed the association between sociodemographic predictors and eleven outcomes (different HepB risk behaviours). Results: A total of 728 respondents were included in the final analysis. Sharing nail cutters, body-piercing, and alcohol use were the most prevalent risk behaviours among respondents. Males, married couples, adult respondents (between 27 and 40 years old), and individuals with low educational attainment were more likely to be exposed to HepB risk behaviours. Conclusion: HepB risk behaviours are relatively high among Malaysians and particularly among certain groups. Therefore, specific programs such as forums, seminars and continuous education on preventive measures for HepB should be tailored to these groups. These programs could be conducted by government authorities such as the Ministry of Women, Family and Community of Malaysia.