“Anti-HBc seropositivity among women of childbearing age in Indonesia: a nationally representative cross-sectional study” (2026), by Noer Endah Pracoyo et al. Medicine research paper. Original abstract below, unchanged. A free PDF is available.

Anti-HBc seropositivity among women of childbearing age in Indonesia: a nationally representative cross-sectional study

Noer Endah Pracoyo, Dede Anwar Musadad, Besral Besral et al. · November 4, 2026 · Medicine

Abstract

Objective This study aimed to estimate the national prevalence of hepatitis B core antigen (anti-HBc) seropositivity, indicating prior hepatitis B virus (HBV) exposure, among Indonesian women aged 15–49 years. Additionally, the study sought to identify associated sociodemographic factors. Methods We analyzed data from the 2018 Indonesian Basic Health Survey (Riskesdas), a nationally representative survey with a complex sampling design and appropriate sampling weights. Anti-HBc seropositivity was measured at the Sulianti Saroso Laboratory. Of the 19,418 participants, 12,617 women were included in the final analysis. Survey-weighted logistic regression was applied to estimate adjusted odds ratios (ORₐⱼ) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results Anti-HBc seropositivity was significantly more common among women aged >35 years (ORₐⱼ = 1.72; 95% CI: 1.58–1.87), those with lower educational attainment (ORₐⱼ = 1.16; 95% CI: 1.05–1.28), employed women (ORₐⱼ = 1.19; 95% CI: 1.09–1.29), rural residents (ORₐⱼ = 1.28; 95% CI: 1.18–1.40), and women reporting contraceptive use (ORₐⱼ = 1.22; 95% CI: 1.11–1.35). Conclusion Anti-HBc seropositivity remains a significant public health concern among Indonesian women of childbearing age, particularly those who are older, less educated, employed, living in rural areas, and reporting contraceptive use. Policy recommendations should prioritize maternal screening, timely and universal birth dose vaccination, administration of hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) when indicated, and improved vaccination coverage among unvaccinated adults.

Free PDF DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2026.1848955