Occupational exposure to blood and other body fluids among healthcare workers in Cameroon: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Occupational exposure to blood and body fluids (BBFs) has become a serious public health problem for healthcare workers (HCWs), especially in developing countries. This exposure increases the risk of contracting blood-borne infections, such as human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. The present systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to estimate the pooled prevalence of BBF exposure among HCWs in Cameroon. Relevant research reports were systematically searched and collected using online databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, and Science Direct, as well as unpublished studies from the national library. Out of 539 records, only 15 studies were included in the final analysis. The I2 tests were employed to assess the heterogeneity of the included studies. Random-effects meta-analysis model was employed to estimate the lifetime and 12-month prevalence of BBF exposure among HCWs in Cameroon. The model indicated that the estimated overall pooled prevalence of 12-month and lifetime BBF exposure among HCWs in Cameroon was 55.44% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 41.20 – 69.68, I2 = 97.5%, p<0.001) and 57.27% (95% CI: 42.43 – 72.10, I2 = 97.7%, p<0.001), respectively. The highest 12-month pooled prevalence was observed in intermediate-level health facilities (84.73%, 95% CI: 85.55 – 88.50), whereas the highest lifetime prevalence was observed in the North-West and South-West regions (77.96%, 95% CI: 57.39 – 93.19). HCWs in Cameroon face a significant risk of BBF exposure, with a high prevalence of exposure over their lifetime and within a 12-month period. This study highlights the urgent need to enhance and implement effective occupational safety and health policies to protect HCWs in Cameroon.
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