Knowledge and Attitudes About Hepatitis B (HBV) Infection Among Women of Reproductive Age in China

Abstract

Objective: To assess the knowledge and attitudes about hepatitis B (HBV) infection among women of reproductive age in China, exploring the factors that influence their understanding of the disease and their perceptions toward individuals infected with HBV. Methods: A descriptive-correlational research design was employed, using purposive sampling to select 114 women of reproductive age from a community in Shandong Province, China. Data were collected through two structured questionnaires: one assessing HBV knowledge and the other measuring attitudes toward HBV. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses, including chi-squared tests and Spearman correlation analysis, were used to examine relationships between demographic characteristics, knowledge, and attitudes. Results: The majority of participants demonstrated low knowledge about Hepatitis B, with 99.1% scoring within the low knowledge range. However, respondents exhibited generally positive attitudes toward prevention and inclusion. Significant associations were found between vaccination history and better knowledge scores, as well as between familial exposure and increased knowledge and positive attitudes. A weak inverse relationship between knowledge and attitudes was observed, suggesting that higher knowledge did not necessarily correlate with more favorable attitudes. Conclusion: The study highlights significant gaps in knowledge about Hepatitis B among women of reproductive age, despite positive attitudes toward prevention and social inclusion. Vaccination history and familial exposure were key factors associated with better knowledge and more supportive attitudes. These findings suggest the need for targeted health education strategies that address both knowledge gaps and emotional factors to improve attitudes and enhance preventive behaviors.