Evaluation of Knowledge Levels, Attitudes and Behaviors Among the Relatives of Patients Infected with Hepatitis B

Objectives: To measure the knowledge level and evaluate the attitudes and behaviors of the relatives of patients with chronic hepatitis B. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in Ankara Atatürk Training and Research Hospital, Clinic of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology. A self-explanatory questionnaire comprising was designed to evaluate and compare the knowledge, attitudes, and awareness of the participants regarding hepatitis B infection. The patients were followed up for at least one year with a diagnosis of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Results: The mean age of 106 relatives of patients was 40.6±11.8 years. The knowledge level of women about the disease, transmission routes, and protective measures was significantly better than men. The importance of receiving a vaccination and separating personal belongings that can be contaminated by blood was known by the majority (86.9% and 86.8%, respectively), but the vaccination rate was 49.1%. Age was inversely correlated with knowledge about transmission routes. The educational level had a positive impact on the knowledge level of relatives. Conclusion: In the fight against HBV infection, informing the whole society, especially patients with HBV and their relatives, about transmission routes and prevention of HBV transmission is vital.