Abstract:
Background: Hepatitis B Virus infection and diabetes mellitus are major health problems 
associated with significant morbidity and mortality throughout the world. Patients suffering 
from Diabetes Mellitus incur high risk of infection with hepatotropic viruses because of 
frequent hospitalization.Hepatitis B virus infection can cause chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis or 
hepatocellular carcinoma. However, there is limited report on the magnitude of Hepatitis B 
virus infection among diabetic patients in eastern part of Ethiopia.
Objective:To assess the prevalenceof Hepatitis B virus infection and associated factors 
among diabetic adult patients attending Haramaya General Hospital from August 8 to 
August30 2021,G.C.
Methods:An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted in diabetic clinic 
attendants. A total of 365 participants were selected usingconsecutive sampling technique. 
Data on socio-demographic feature and other associated factors were collected using a 
pretested questionnaire. Blood sample was collected; serum was separated and tested for 
HBsAg sero status using rapid diagnostic kit (ACONhepatitis B surface antigen Laboratories 
rapid test kit, USA). Data were entered to Epi data version 4.6.0.2 software, exported 
toanalyze by SPSS version 26. Logistic regression was used to assess association of HBV Diabetes co-infection with the independent factors. All tests were two-sided with α level of 
0.05. A P-value less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant.
Results: In this study, a total of 365 participants were enrolled, 243(66.3%) male, and 
122(33.7%) females with a mean age of 42.24 (± SD 10.2). The total seroprevalence of 
HBsAg among diabetic patients was 7.4% (95% CI=4.71–10.08). Having multiple sexual 
partners was significantly associated with HBV co-infection among diabetic 
patients[AOR=2.92, 95% CI: 1.2–7.08].
Conclusion:Intermediate prevalence of HBV infection was reported among diabetic 
patients.Therefore, systematic screening for HBsAg is recommended among diabetic patients 
during their follow for a better outcome and to reduce the risk of HBV transmission.