Knowledge, Perceptions, Attitudes, and Health Seeking Behaviors Regarding HIV and Hepatitis B Co-Infection in Liberian Communities: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Prince L. Fully1, Neima N. Candy2, Aminata M. Sow3, Alfreda B. Sandi4
1Prince L. Fully, Department of School of Public Health, University of Liberia, Monrovia, Liberia.
2Neima N. Candy, Department of School of Public Health, University of Liberia, Monrovia, Liberia.
3Aminata M. Sow, Department of School of Public Health, University of Liberia, Monrovia, Liberia.
4Alfreda B. Sandi, Department of School of Public Health, University of Liberia, Monrovia, Liberia.
Manuscript received on 03 March 2026 | Revised Manuscript received on 08 March 2026 | Manuscript Accepted on 15 March 2026 | Manuscript published on 30 March 2026 | PP: 8-13 | Volume-6 Issue-3 March 2026 | Retrieval Number: 100.1/ijpmh.C114406030326 | DOI: 10.54105/ijpmh.C1144.06030326
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© The Authors. Published by Lattice Science Publication (LSP). This is an open-access article under the CC-BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)
Abstract: Background: Although HIV and Hepatitis B virus (HBV) have similar transmission patterns in West Africa, little is known abouthowthe population perceives HIV/HBV co-infection. This study examines people’s attitudes, knowledge, and healthseeking habits in three Liberian communities about HIV/HBV coinfection. Methods: From December 2025 to January 2026, we conducted a community-based survey in Todee, St. PaulRiver, and Greater Monrovia. A standardized questionnaire, guided by the Health Belief Model and the Theory of Planned Behavior, was given to 40 individuals who were purposefully chosen. The analysis used descriptive statistics, chi-square testing, and logistic regression. Results: Only 65.0% of participants knew about Hepatitis B, and only 35.0% identified HIV/HBV co-infection, despite 95.0% being aware of HIV/AIDS. Educational level strongly influenced testing behaviours and knowledge outcomes (β = 0.42, p < 0.01). The major obstacle to healthcare access was reported as cost (40.0%), followed by fear ofstigma (22.5%). Trust in healthcare practitioners was modest (mean 2.60/5), while felt stigma was high (3.52/5). The logistic model showed that HIV testing was substantially predicted by education (OR=1.8, 95% CI: 1.2-2.7) and healthcare trust (OR=1.5, 95% CI: 1.1-2.1). Conclusions: The Liberian population hassignificant information deficits about HIV/HBV co-infection. The findings highlight the need to remove financial barriers, eliminate stigma, train healthcare workers, and provide comprehensive health information. The cultural context of Liberia’s post-conflict situation should inform these efforts.
Keywords: HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis B, Co-Infection, Community Health, West Africa, Health-Seeking Behaviour, Knowledge Assessment, Preventive Healthcare.
Scope of the Article: Public Health