Prevalence of hepatitis B virus markers in municipal solid waste workers in Keratsini (Greece)

AIM: To evaluate the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) markers among municipal solid waste workers (MSWWs) in Keratsini (Greece). METHODS: We assessed in a cross-sectional study the prevalence of biological markers of HBV infection (HbsAg, anti-Hbc, anti-Hbs) and their association with exposure to waste and other socio-demographic factors in 166 municipal employees in Keratsini (Greece). RESULTS: The prevalence of anti-Hbc (+) did differ significantly between exposed and non-exposed employees to waste. Older employees had a significantly higher prevalence of anti-Hbc (+). MSWWs who were anti-Hbc (+) were less educated than non-exposed employees. Logistic regression analysis has shown that the exposure to waste and age were independently associated with the anti-Hbc positivity. CONCLUSION: Occupational exposure to waste is possibly associated with the acquisition of HBV infection. Immunization of MSWWs should be considered to reduce the risk of HBV infection.