Researchers from the THOP-GHTM Research Group, Cruz Sebastião and Victor Pimentel, have recently published a new article titled “Trends in active hepatitis B virus infection and associated risk factors among blood donor candidates from Luanda, Angola” in the peer-reviewed journal Nature Scientific Reports. The study provides important insights into the epidemiology of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in Angola and offers evidence to inform public health strategies and blood safety interventions.
Study Scope and Objectives
Conducted in Luanda, Angola, the study focused on blood donor candidates over a defined period. The main objectives were to assess the prevalence and trends of active HBV infection, to identify demographic and behavioral risk factors associated with infection, and to provide evidence to guide public health policies and blood safety protocols in Angola and similar settings.
Key Findings
Analysis of the dataset revealed that the overall prevalence of active HBV infection among blood donors remained significant, highlighting ongoing public health challenges. Higher infection rates were observed among younger donors and males, indicating the need for targeted awareness and vaccination campaigns. The study also identified specific risk factors, including prior blood transfusions and limited access to vaccination, which were significantly associated with HBV infection. Trends over the study period suggested a stability or slight decrease in HBV prevalence, reflecting potential improvements in blood donor screening and public health interventions.
Implications for Public Health
The study provides critical evidence for blood safety policies in Angola. It underscores the importance of systematic HBV screening for all blood donors, targeted vaccination and awareness programs for at-risk populations, and continuous monitoring of prevalence trends to inform national health strategies.
These findings highlight the role of GHTM researchers in generating evidence to support public health interventions and disease prevention in Angola and beyond, contributing to the broader goal of improving blood safety and controlling HBV transmission.
🔎 Read the full article in Scientific Reports [here]