Determinants of hepatitis B vaccine uptake among pregnant Chinese women in Hong Kong

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of a history of hepatitis B vaccination among pregnant Chinese women in Hong Kong, and to identify factors associated with vaccine uptake at their own expense. METHODS: A prospective, cross-sectional survey was conducted in a university obstetric unit in Hong Kong. Pregnant Chinese women who attended the prenatal clinic were invited to complete a self-administered questionnaire, which requested details of their history of hepatitis B vaccination and sociodemographic characteristics. RESULTS: The prevalence of hepatitis B vaccine uptake was 33%. The following factors were associated with higher hepatitis B vaccine uptake: employment as a healthcare worker; a higher education level; higher monthly family income; routine medical checkups; and premarital checkups. CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that the public has insufficient awareness of hepatitis B infection in the community and that providing better information and education to the general public is necessary.