ABSTRACT
Background: Hepatitis B is a major global health concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria. University students are at risk due to potential exposure to risk factors such as unprotected sex, sharing personal items, and limited knowledge about the disease. Understanding their level of knowledge and awareness is critical for implementing effective public health interventions. Objectives This study aimed to assess the knowledge and awareness of Hepatitis B among undergraduate students at the University of Benin. It also sought to determine the relationship between sociodemographic factors (age, gender, faculty, and academic level) and knowledge and awareness levels. Methods A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 385 undergraduate students selected through a multi-stage sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured, selfadministered questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS and GraphPad Instat. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize responses, while chi-square tests assessed associations between demographic variables and knowledge levels, with statistical significance set at p<0.05. Results The study found that 84.2% of students had heard of Hepatitis B, yet only 13.8% had been screened, and 6.5% had received the vaccine. There were significant gaps in knowledge regarding transmission, symptoms, and prevention. Students from medical and science-related faculties demonstrated significantly higher knowledge and awareness than their non-science viii counterparts (p<0.001). Awareness was also significantly associated with age (p=0.006) and academic level (p=0.017), with older and higher-level students displaying better knowledge. Despite high awareness, screening and vaccination rates remained low. Conclusion While general awareness of Hepatitis B was high among University of Benin students, there were substantial knowledge gaps, particularly in non-health-related faculties. The low screening and vaccination rates highlight the need for university-led health education, free or subsidized screening, and vaccination programs to enhance Hepatitis B prevention. Future research should focus on identifying barriers to screening and vaccination to develop more targeted interventions. Keywords: Hepatitis B, Knowledge, Awareness, University of Benin, Vaccination, Public Health
