Published in PLOS One on 2026-09-11, this study is presented as an attributed evidence briefing. The excerpts below are the original researchers’ words, reproduced under their Creative Commons Attribution licence. Health Signal has selected the abstract and, where needed, opening background paragraphs; the complete methods, results, limitations and references remain in the linked paper.
Original authors: Felistar Mwakasungura, Alfateresia Mwasangama, Davis Amani, Elias Bukundi, Bruno Sunguya, Hans L Tillmann
Source: PLOS One • DOI 10.1371/journal.pone.0358242
Read the complete primary study ↗ · Creative Commons Attribution licence
From the researchers
Abstract
Co-occurrence of HIV and Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) in sub-Saharan Africa, although less prevalent, is often more serious and exhibits rapid clinical deterioration even with appropriate treatment, jeopardizing efforts to reach regional and global targets. Evidence varies in the region and not reported in some countries. We used data from the nationally representative survey to characterize the burden and determinants of HIV and HBV co-occurrence in Tanzania. This secondary data analysis of the Tanzania HIV Impact Survey (THIS) involved 33,263 individuals aged 15 years and above, randomly selected from 14,966,262 households from 31 regions of Tanzania. The main outcome variable was HIV and HBV coinfections. Analyses were conducted using descriptive analysis, to estimate prevalence of co-occurrences, while Chi-square test used to characterize the burden. Through bivariable and multivariable binomial logistic regression models, we could estimate the associations between different independent variables with HIV-HBV co-occurrence. The burdens of HIV and HBV in the general population were 4.4% and 3.5% respectively. The prevalence of dual HIV and HBV infections was 0.3%. Among people diagnosed with HIV, 6.2% had HBV co-occurrence. After adjusting for confounder and other variables, age was significantly associated with coinfection (aOR = 1.02; 95% CI: 1.01–1.03; p < 0.001). Participants who were not in union had significantly higher risk of coinfection compared with those in union (aOR = 1.56; 95% CI: 1.01–2.41; p = 0.047). Having one lifetime sexual partner remained strongly protective factor against HIV-HBV coinfection (aOR = 0.19; 95% CI: 0.09–0.42; p < 0.001). Although the burden of HIV/HBV coinfection remains as low as 0.3% in the general population in Tanzania, the risk remains high among older adults and those with multiple sexual partnerships. Integrating HBV screening in all opportunities presented in the successful HIV program may help addressing the dual burden. For effectiveness, more efforts should target people with high-risk sexual behaviors and those with advanced age.
Introduction
Transmitted through similar mechanisms, there is a growing concern over an increased burden of both Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) infections globally [1]. While several effective strategies and interventions have resulted into an epidemic control of HIV in the region, a growing burden of HBV threatens the gain thus far. At the end of 2024, SSA accounted for approximately two-thirds of the 40 million people reported living with HIV globally, and over 600,000 who succumbed to HIV related deaths [2]. A similar pattern is seen in people with chronic HBV, where recent statistics estimated annual global deaths of over 800,000 from HBV-associated liver cirrhosis and cancers, the majority of which also originate from this region [3]. This signifies disparities in health and healthcare across the globe that demand prompt action.
Reading this evidence
Use the full paper to check the study design, participant selection, comparator and outcome definitions before drawing a practical conclusion. An association does not by itself show cause and effect. A reported performance measure needs its denominator and uncertainty. A finding from a particular facility, sample or time period should retain that scope when it is discussed elsewhere.
This briefing makes the source accessible within the wider research & evidence desk. It does not assess an individual patient or certify a product. When considering relevance to another health system, examine the original authors’ account of context and limitations, then seek local implementation evidence. The related reporting below provides other studies to read alongside this one; it is a topic connection, rather than a claim that their results are directly comparable.
© 2026 Felistar Mwakasungura, Alfateresia Mwasangama, Davis Amani, Elias Bukundi, Bruno Sunguya, Hans L Tillmann. Excerpts reproduced under CC BY. Selection, formatting and contextual notes by Health Signal. The researchers are the authors of the source study, not members of Health Signal’s staff.
Explore connected evidence
- Evidence brief: Factors associated with high viral load among HIV clients aged 15 years and older receiving treatment in Tanga city council, Tanzania: A facility-based cross-sectional study
- Evidence brief: The burden and correlates of bloodborne pathogens in a Zambian Blood Donor Cohort
- Evidence brief: Determinants of HIV testing uptake among adolescent girls and young women in mainland Tanzania: A stratified analysis of the 2016/17 and 2022/2023 national surveys
