Seroprevalence of Viral Markers among Tattooed and Non-tattooed Prospective Blood Donors at Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH)

Introduction: Blood transfusion is vital but carries risks of transfusion-transmissible diseases (TTDs), especially in regions with inadequate practices. While tattoos may pose infection risks, evidence linking them to TTDs is inconclusive.

Aim/Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the seroprevalence of viral markers among tattooed and non-tattooed prospective blood donors at Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH).

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at LUTH, Lagos, Nigeria, from June to July 2024. A total of 158 adult blood donors, comprising 79 tattooed and 79 non-tattooed individuals, were recruited. Blood samples were tested for Hepatitis B virus (HBV), Hepatitis C virus (HCV), and Human Immunodeficiency virus (HIV) antibodies using rapid diagnostic kits. Statistical analysis included multivariate and odds ratio calculations.

Results: Among 79 tattooed participants, 26.6% tested positive for a TTI, with higher rates in those with older tattoos. Among non-tattooed donors, 21.5% had TTIs. Hepatitis B virus prevalence was slightly higher in tattooed individuals (11.4%) than in non-tattooed (10.1%). Co-infections (HIV/HBV and HBV/HCV) were more common in tattooed donors, though none of these differences were statistically significant. No TTIs were found in tattooed females, and participants with multiple tattoos or sexual partners had higher odds of testing positive.

Conclusion: The study suggests that tattoos may contribute to an increased risk of TTIs, particularly for older tattoos. However, other factors like gender, age, and sexual behaviour are also significant contributors. The findings imply that recent tattoos and improved practices may reduce risks, challenging the need for strict deferral policies for all tattooed donors.