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Wang Y, Cheng G, Lau G. Achieving WHO target of HCV control in Hong Kong: challenges and strategies. Glob Health Med 2021; 3:276-282. [PMID: 34782869 DOI: 10.35772/ghm.2021.01075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
With the introduction of effective directly acting antiviral agents (DAAs) therapy, control and elimination of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is becoming a feasible goal. In Hong Kong, HCV prevalence in general population is 0.3%-0.5% over the past decades. However, like other high-income areas/countries, high prevalence of HCV infection has been found in several population groups, such as people who inject drugs (PWID), patients undergoing dialysis, and human immunodeficiency virus infection and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/ AIDS) patients. Based on the epidemiological study using data retrieved from the Hong Kong HCV Registry from January 2005 to March 2017, the estimated territory-wide diagnosis rate and treatment rate of HCV infection were only 50.9% and 12.4%, respectively. Although these rates was comparable to many developed countries/areas, the performances remained substantially below 90% and 80%, the 2030 targets proposed by World Health Organization (WHO). In recognition of the challenges, the Hong Kong Government set up the Steering Committee on Prevention and Control of Viral Hepatitis (SCVH) which formulated the Hong Kong Viral Hepatitis Action Plan 2020-2024. The Action Plan adopts four key strategies, as described in the WHO framework for global action, namely, awareness, surveillance, prevention and treatment. With the effective implementation of the Action Plan, especially in targeted screening of high-risk populations and more generalized use of the highly efficacious DAAs for all diagnosed HCV subjects, the goals of reducing HCV transmission and HCV-related morbidity and mortality can be achieved in Hong Kong by 2030.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yudong Wang
- Humanity and Health Clinical Trial Center, Humanity & Health Medical Group, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Gregory Cheng
- Humanity and Health Clinical Trial Center, Humanity & Health Medical Group, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Faculty of Health Science, University of Macau, Macau SAR, China
| | - George Lau
- Humanity and Health Clinical Trial Center, Humanity & Health Medical Group, Hong Kong SAR, China.,The Fifth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
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Chiu WC, Lu ML, Chang CC. Mental Disorders and Interferon Nontreatment in Hepatitis C Virus Infection-a Population Based Cohort Study. Psychiatry Investig 2020; 17:268-274. [PMID: 32151125 PMCID: PMC7113179 DOI: 10.30773/pi.2019.0254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study investigates the association between mental disorders and interferon nontreatment in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in a large national sample. METHODS Using the National Health Insurance Research Database of Taiwan, we conducted a nationwide population-based study. Each case was matched to five controls by age, sex, urbanization, and income. Conditional logistic regression was used to assess odds of HCV nontreatment in different mental disorders. RESULTS From 1999 to 2013, we identified 92,970 subjects with HCV infection and 15,495 HCV cases (16.7%) had received IFN therapy. Other than chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, the medical diseases and mental disorders were significantly different between IFN and non-IFN treated HCV patients. After adjusting for medical diseases, depressive disorder and anxiety disorder was positively associated with receiving IFN therapy. Patients with schizophrenia, bipolar disorders and alcohol use disorders were significantly less likely to receive interferon. Antidepressant exposure (cumulative daily exposure or cumulative daily dose) was associated with lower odds of IFN treatment. CONCLUSION Our nationwide cohort study demonstrated that INF nontreatment rate was lower in certain mental disorders. Antidepressant exposure might lower the chance of receiving IFN treatment. Our results may help to identify and to overcome the obstacles for HCV treatment and further apply to DAAs regimen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Che Chiu
- Department of Psychiatry, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Mong-Liang Lu
- Department of Psychiatry, Wan-Fang Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Chen Chang
- Department of Psychiatry, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Center of General Education, Tunghai University, Taichung, Taiwan
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3
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Wong GLH, Chan HLY, Loo CK, Hui YT, Fung JYY, Cheung D, Chung C, Chim AML, Wong VWS. Change in treatment paradigm in people who previously injected drugs with chronic hepatitis C in the era of direct-acting antiviral therapy. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2019; 34:1641-1647. [PMID: 30707777 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.14622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Revised: 12/28/2018] [Accepted: 01/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is highly prevalent among people who inject drugs but is often undiagnosed. The treatment paradigm for HCV patients has been changing since the availability of direct-acting antiviral (DAA) treatment. We aimed to evaluate the change in treatment paradigm of people who previously injected drugs (ex-PWID) in Hong Kong before and after the availability of DAA. METHOD Consecutive ex-PWID referred from various nongovernmental organizations attended education talks at rehabilitation centers and received point-of-care rapid test for HCV antibody (anti-HCV) at the same session. Subjects tested positive for anti-HCV were invited to undergo further assessment. Afterwards, the patients were referred to the regional hospitals for follow-up and/or treatment. RESULTS Three hundred sixty-five ex-PWID received HCV rapid test; 268 (73.4%) were found to be anti-HCV positive. Among these 268 HCV-positive ex-PWID, 234 (87.3%) attended the assessment session (mean age 52 years, 90.2% male, 45.5% genotype 1b, 41.1% genotype 6a, and median liver stiffness 5.9 kPa); 187 (69.8%) attended follow-up visits at regional hospitals. Seventy-one patients received antiviral treatment for HCV; 69 first received peginterferon and ribavirin (PegIFN/RBV), whereas 10 patients (eight PegIFN/RBV-treated patients) received DAA treatment. Fifty-two patients achieved sustained virologic response at 12 or 24 weeks. Treatment uptake rates of PegIFN/RBV and DAA treatment in the pre-DAA versus post-DAA era were 22.3% versus 48.5% and 0% versus 15.6%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Targeted screening in ex-PWID is effective in identifying patients with HCV infection in the community. To improve treatment uptake, further improvements in the referral system and treatment regimens are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Lai-Hung Wong
- Institute of Digestive Disease, Hong Kong.,Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Henry Lik-Yuen Chan
- Institute of Digestive Disease, Hong Kong.,Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | | | - Yee-Tak Hui
- Department of Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong
| | | | | | | | - Angel Mei-Ling Chim
- Institute of Digestive Disease, Hong Kong.,Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Vincent Wai-Sun Wong
- Institute of Digestive Disease, Hong Kong.,Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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Liu CH, Yu ML, Peng CY, Hsieh TY, Huang YH, Su WW, Cheng PN, Lin CL, Lo CC, Chen CY, Chen JJ, Ma Q, Brooks-Rooney C, Kao JH. Real-world anti-viral treatment decisions among chronic hepatitis C patients in Taiwan: The INITIATE study. J Formos Med Assoc 2018; 118:1014-1023. [PMID: 30448077 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfma.2018.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2018] [Revised: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE While direct-acting antiviral regimens have been approved for chronic hepatitis C (CHC) patients in Taiwan, reimbursement is limited to certain populations. Thus, pegylated interferon plus ribavirin (PEG-IFN/RBV) remains the standard of care for many patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the percentage of CHC patients who were recommended and willing to receive PEG-IFN/RBV, and to identify reasons why patients were not recommended or unwilling to receive treatment. METHODS 822 Taiwanese CHC patients were enrolled from May-August 2016 in this cross-sectional study. PEG-IFN/RBV recommendation and patient willingness to receive treatment were evaluated through surveys. Patient characteristics associated with treatment recommendation and willingness were assessed. RESULTS 311 (37.8%) patients were recommended PEG-IFN/RBV while 102 (12.4%) were willing to follow treatment recommendation. Rates of recommendation and willingness were lower in treatment-experienced, hepatitis C virus genotype 1 (GT1) and cirrhotic patients, and those treated in Northern Taiwan. Multivariate analyses found factors such as prior treatment experience, GT1, cirrhosis and low hemoglobin levels to be associated with lower recommendation rates while advanced age, GT1 and low baseline viral loads were associated with lower willingness rates. Physicians' top reasons for not recommending PEG-IFN/RBV included the wish to wait for better treatment options (60.3%), prior treatment failure (21.3%) and patients' advanced age (20.9%). Patients were unwilling to receive treatment mainly due to concerns about side effects (91.4%), the wish to wait for better treatment options (71.3%) and inconvenience (25.4%). CONCLUSION A minority of Taiwanese CHC patients were recommended PEG-IFN/RBV, of which few were willing to receive treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Hua Liu
- National Taiwan University College of Medicine and Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Lung Yu
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; School of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Yuan Peng
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Tsai-Yuan Hsieh
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Centre, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Hsiang Huang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Wen Su
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Changhua Christian Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan
| | - Pin-Nan Cheng
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Lin Lin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Taipei City Hospital - Renai Branch, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Chu Lo
- Department of Internal Medicine, St. Martin De Porres Hospital - Daya, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Yi Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chiayi Christian Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Jyh-Jou Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chi Mei Hospital, Liouying, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Qian Ma
- Costello Medical Singapore Pte Ltd, Singapore
| | | | - Jia-Horng Kao
- National Taiwan University College of Medicine and Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Nguyen P, Vutien P, Hoang J, Trinh S, Le A, Yasukawa LA, Weber S, Henry L, Nguyen MH. Barriers to care for chronic hepatitis C in the direct-acting antiviral era: a single-centre experience. BMJ Open Gastroenterol 2017; 4:e000181. [PMID: 29333275 PMCID: PMC5759739 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgast-2017-000181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2017] [Revised: 11/18/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cure rates for chronic hepatitis C have improved dramatically with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), but treatment barriers remain. We aimed to compare treatment initiation rates and barriers across both interferon-based and DAA-based eras. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study of all patients with chronic hepatitis C seen at an academic hepatology clinic from 1999 to 2016. Patients were identified to have chronic hepatitis C by the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision codes, and the diagnosis was validated by chart review. Patients were excluded if they did not have at least one visit in hepatology clinic, were under 18 years old or had prior treatment with DAA therapy. Patients were placed in the DAA group if they were seen after 1 January 2014 and had not yet achieved virological cure with prior treatment. All others were considered in the interferon group. Results 3202 patients were included (interferon era: n=2688; DAA era: n=514). Despite higher rates of decompensated cirrhosis and medical comorbidities in the DAA era, treatment and sustained virological response rates increased significantly when compared with the interferon era (76.7% vs 22.3%, P<0.001; 88.8% vs 55%, P<0.001, respectively). Lack of follow-up remained a significant reason for non-treatment in both groups (DAA era=24% and interferon era=45%). An additional 8% of patients in the DAA era were not treated due to insurance or issues with cost. In the DAA era, African-Americans, compared with Caucasians, had significantly lower odds of being treated (OR=0.37, P=0.02). Conclusions Despite higher rates of medical comorbidities in the DAA era, considerable treatment challenges remain including cost, loss to follow-up and ethnic disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Nguyen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, California, USA.,School of Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Philip Vutien
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Joseph Hoang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Sam Trinh
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, California, USA
| | - An Le
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Lee Ann Yasukawa
- Center for Clinical Informatics, Stanford School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Susan Weber
- Center for Clinical Informatics, Stanford School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Linda Henry
- Pharmaceutical Outcomes and of Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Mindie H Nguyen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, California, USA
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Vutien P, Jin M, Le MH, Nguyen P, Trinh S, Huang JF, Yu ML, Chuang WL, Nguyen MH. Regional differences in treatment rates for patients with chronic hepatitis C infection: Systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0183851. [PMID: 28877190 PMCID: PMC5587234 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0183851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2017] [Accepted: 08/12/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Treatment rates with interferon-based therapies for chronic hepatitis C have been low. Our aim was to perform a systematic review of available data to estimate the rates and barriers for antiviral therapy for chronic hepatitis C. METHODS We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis searching MEDLINE, SCOPUS through March 2016 and abstracts from recent major liver meetings for primary literature with available hepatitis C treatment rates. Random-effects models were used to estimate effect sizes and meta-regression to test for potential sources of heterogeneity. RESULTS We included 39 studies with 476,443 chronic hepatitis C patients. The overall treatment rate was 25.5% (CI: 21.1-30.5%) and by region 34% for Europe, 28.3% for Asia/Pacific, and 18.7% for North America (p = 0.008). On multivariable meta-regression, practice setting (tertiary vs. population-based, p = 0.04), region (Europe vs. North America p = 0.004), and data source (clinical chart review vs. administrative database, p = 0.025) remained significant predictors of heterogeneity. The overall treatment eligibility rate was 52.5%, and 60% of these received therapy. Of the patients who refused treatment, 16.2% cited side effects, 13.8% cited cost as reasons for treatment refusal, and 30% lacked access to specialist care. CONCLUSIONS Only one-quarter of chronic hepatitis C patients received antiviral therapy in the pre-direct acting antiviral era. Treatment rates should improve in the new interferon-free era but, cost, co-morbidities, and lack of specialist care will likely remain and need to be addressed. Linkage to care should even be of higher priority now that well-tolerated cure is available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Vutien
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University Medical Center, Palo Alto, California, United States of America
- Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Michelle Jin
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University Medical Center, Palo Alto, California, United States of America
| | - Michael H. Le
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University Medical Center, Palo Alto, California, United States of America
| | - Pauline Nguyen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University Medical Center, Palo Alto, California, United States of America
| | - Sam Trinh
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University Medical Center, Palo Alto, California, United States of America
| | - Jee-Fu Huang
- Hepatobiliary Section, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Lung Yu
- Hepatobiliary Section, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Wan-Long Chuang
- Hepatobiliary Section, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Mindie H. Nguyen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University Medical Center, Palo Alto, California, United States of America
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Chan HLY, Tsang OTY, Hui YT, Fung J, Lui GCY, Lai CL, Wong GLH, Chan KH, But DYK, Lai MS, Lao WC, Chan CKM, Lam YS, Seto WK, Li C, Yuen MF, Wong VWS. Real-life efficacy and safety of paritaprevir/ritonavir, ombitasvir, and dasabuvir in chronic hepatitis C patients in Hong Kong. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2017; 32:1230-1233. [PMID: 27869328 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.13663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2016] [Revised: 11/02/2016] [Accepted: 11/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM In registration studies, combination therapy of paritaprevir/ritonavir, ombitasvir, and dasabuvir (PrOD) with and without ribavirin for 12-24 weeks can achieve > 90% sustained virological response (SVR) for genotype 1 hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. However, data in Asia is scanty. We aimed to study the efficacy and safety of this combination therapy in chronic hepatitis C patients in Hong Kong. METHODS We retrospectively analyzed data from six local hospitals that have prescribed PrOD with and without ribavirin to patients with genotype 1 chronic HCV infection as part of a global compassionate program. RESULTS Among 41 patients treated, 35 (85%) patients had genotype 1b HCV infection, 6 (15%) had co-infection with human immunodeficiency virus, 35 (85%) failed previous peginterferon and ribavirin therapy, 25 (61%) had compensated liver cirrhosis, and 3 (7%) had liver transplantation. Thirty-five (85%) patients received 12-week treatment and six patients received 24-week treatment; 26 (63%) patients received ribavirin combination. Thirty-nine (95%; 95% confidence interval 88.5-100%) patients had undetectable HCV RNA at 12-week post-treatment, that is, SVR. The two patients who did not develop SVR discontinued treatment prematurely; both of them were treatment experienced with liver cirrhosis complicated by acute renal failure unrelated to the treatment of PrOD and ribavirin. No patient had hepatic decompensation. CONCLUSIONS Paritaprevir/ritonavir, ombitasvir, and dasabuvir with or without ribavirin is effective and safe in patients with genotype 1 HCV infection in real-life clinical setting in Hong Kong.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry Lik-Yuen Chan
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics and Institute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Owen Tak-Yin Tsang
- Department of Medicine and Geriatrics, Princess Margaret Hospital, Hong Kong
| | - Yee-Tak Hui
- Department of Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong
| | - James Fung
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong
| | - Grace Chung-Yan Lui
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics and Institute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Ching-Lung Lai
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong
| | - Grace Lai-Hung Wong
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics and Institute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Kam-Hon Chan
- Department of Medicine, North District Hospital, Hong Kong
| | - David Yiu-Kuen But
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong
| | - Moon-Sing Lai
- Department of Medicine, North District Hospital, Hong Kong
| | - Wai-Cheung Lao
- Department of Medicine, Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, Hong Kong
| | - Carmen Ka-Man Chan
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics and Institute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Yip-Shun Lam
- Department of Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong
| | - Wai-Kay Seto
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong
| | - Carlton Li
- Department of Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong
| | - Man-Fung Yuen
- Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong
| | - Vincent Wai-Sun Wong
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics and Institute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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Lo AOS, Chan HLY, Wong VWS, Wong GLH. Cost-effectiveness of the highly effective direct-acting antivirals in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C in Hong Kong. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2017; 32:1071-1078. [PMID: 28449343 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.13638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2016] [Revised: 10/11/2016] [Accepted: 10/30/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM In Asia-Pacific where cost is a major concern, peginterferon plus ribavirin (PR) often remain as the standard of care in chronic hepatitis C (CHC) treatment, while the direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) are commonly recommended as retreatment. Newer DAAs can achieve a sustained virological response (SVR) of nearly 100% with pan-genotypic coverage, that is "Highly Effective DAAs." We aimed to investigate the most desirable cost range for the Highly Effective DAAs using Hong Kong as an example. METHODS Markov modeling was performed using PR as the reference strategy. The cost-effectiveness of the Highly Effective DAAs was compared with sofosbuvir-PR (first-line and rescue) and boceprevir-PR therapies. A 50-year-old genotype 1b hepatitis C virus (HCV) infected treatment-naïve patient with METAVIR F3 was used as the base case scenario to reflect the commonest HCV genotype in Hong Kong. RESULTS The use of PR would incur a lifetime cost of US$35,854 and effectiveness of 14.85 quality-adjusted life-year (QALY). Sofosbuvir-PR as first-line treatment was dominated by other regimes. If Sofosbuvir-PR rescue therapy was used, the drug cost of Highly Effective DAAs should be set below US$43,553, with a cost-effectiveness ratio (CER) of US$3035/QALY compared with PR. In regions where Boceprevir-PR was still used as first-line therapy, the desirable drug cost of Highly Effective DAAs would be below US$56,985 to achieve a CER of US$5427/QALY. CONCLUSIONS The most desirable costs of the Highly Effective DAAs would be below US$43,553 if Sofosbuvir-PR rescue therapy is used and below US$56,985 if Boceprevir-PR therapy is used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angeline Oi-Shan Lo
- Institute of Digestive Disease, Hong Kong.,Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Hong Kong
| | - Henry Lik-Yuen Chan
- Institute of Digestive Disease, Hong Kong.,Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Hong Kong.,State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Vincent Wai-Sun Wong
- Institute of Digestive Disease, Hong Kong.,Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Hong Kong.,State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Grace Lai-Hung Wong
- Institute of Digestive Disease, Hong Kong.,Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Hong Kong.,State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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Chirikov VV, Shaya FT, Mullins CD, dosReis S, Onukwugha E, Howell CD. Determinants of quality of care and treatment initiation in Medicare disabled patients with chronic hepatitis C. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2016; 9:1447-62. [PMID: 26524244 DOI: 10.1586/17474124.2015.1095087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aligning with a national priority to bridge health disparities in disadvantaged populations, we explored contextual determinants of pretreatment quality of care and treatment receipt of Medicare disabled patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. METHODS We used Medicare claims (2006-2009) linked to the Area Health Resource Files. Ordinal partial proportional odds and weighted modified Poisson regressions were used to model the determinants of quality care receipt and interferon-based treatment, respectively. RESULTS We identified 1936 Medicare disabled HCV patients, of whom 10.4% were treated with peg-interferon. Despite the high comorbidity burden among HCV disabled patients, greater engagement in care correlated with greater likelihood of quality care and treatment receipt. CONCLUSION Our study highlights the need for process and linkage to care in Medicare disabled HCV patients, but future research relevant to novel interferon-free agents is needed to assess patterns of quality of care and treatment receipt in this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktor V Chirikov
- a 1 Department of Pharmaceutical Health Services Research, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, 220 Arch Street, Saratoga Offices 12th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Fadia T Shaya
- a 1 Department of Pharmaceutical Health Services Research, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, 220 Arch Street, Saratoga Offices 12th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.,b 2 University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - C Daniel Mullins
- a 1 Department of Pharmaceutical Health Services Research, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, 220 Arch Street, Saratoga Offices 12th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Susan dosReis
- a 1 Department of Pharmaceutical Health Services Research, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, 220 Arch Street, Saratoga Offices 12th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Ebere Onukwugha
- a 1 Department of Pharmaceutical Health Services Research, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, 220 Arch Street, Saratoga Offices 12th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Charles D Howell
- c 3 Department of Medicine, Howard University College of Medicine, 2041 Georgia Ave. Suite 5C02, Washington, DC 20060, USA
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Lai CL, Wong VWS, Yuen MF, Yang JC, Knox SJ, Mo H, Han LL, Brainard DM, Chan HLY. Sofosbuvir plus ribavirin for the treatment of patients with chronic genotype 1 or 6 hepatitis C virus infection in Hong Kong. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2016; 43:96-101. [PMID: 26503414 DOI: 10.1111/apt.13429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2015] [Revised: 09/08/2015] [Accepted: 09/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Hong Kong, most patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) have either genotype 6a or 1b infection. AIM To evaluate the efficacy and safety of sofosbuvir with ribavirin in treatment-naïve patients in Hong Kong with HCV genotype 1 or 6. METHODS In an open-label study, patients were randomised to sofosbuvir 400 mg once daily plus ribavirin 1000-1200 divided twice daily for 12 (n = 10), 16 (n = 11) or 24 (n = 10) weeks. The primary endpoint was the percentage of patients with HCV RNA < LLOQ (lower limit of quantification, 25 IU/mL) 12 weeks after cessation of therapy (SVR12). RESULTS All 31 patients (20 HCV genotype 1 and 11 genotype 6) had HCV RNA < LLOQ by Week 4 of treatment and at their last on-treatment visit. SVR12 rates were high in all treatment groups: 100% (10/10) for 12 weeks, 100% (11/11) for 16 weeks and 90% (9/10) for 24 weeks of therapy. The only patient who did not reach SVR12 had genotype 1 HCV and relapsed at post-treatment Week 4. Sofosbuvir with ribavirin was generally well tolerated. The most common adverse events were malaise (13%) and upper respiratory tract infection (13%), followed by anaemia (10%). No patients experienced serious adverse events. One patient discontinued treatment at Week 16 because of an adverse event. The event, upper respiratory tract infection, was not considered treatment related by the investigator. This subject achieved SVR12. CONCLUSIONS The all-oral regimen sofosbuvir plus ribavirin is effective in treatment-naïve patients in Hong Kong with genotype 1 or 6 HCV. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT02021643.
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Affiliation(s)
- C L Lai
- Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - V W-S Wong
- Institute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - M F Yuen
- Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - J C Yang
- Gilead Sciences Inc., Foster City, CA, USA
| | - S J Knox
- Gilead Sciences Inc., Foster City, CA, USA
| | - H Mo
- Gilead Sciences Inc., Foster City, CA, USA
| | - L L Han
- Gilead Sciences Inc., Foster City, CA, USA
| | | | - H L Y Chan
- Institute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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Sublette VA, Smith SK, George J, McCaffery K, Douglas MW. The Hepatitis C treatment experience: Patients' perceptions of the facilitators of and barriers to uptake, adherence and completion. Psychol Health 2015; 30:987-1004. [PMID: 25622699 DOI: 10.1080/08870446.2015.1012195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study explores the perceptions of patients receiving treatment for Hepatitis C to determine what factors influence their decision to commence treatment, ability to maintain adherence and complete their treatment program. DESIGN Semi-structured interview techniques were used in a qualitative study of 20 patients undergoing treatment for Chronic Hepatitis C (CHC). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES To explore patients' perceived barriers and facilitators of Hepatitis C treatment adherence and completion. RESULTS Analysis of patient interviews identified four key themes: (1) motivations for commencing CHC treatment - fear of death and ridding themselves of stigma and shame; (2) the influential role of provider communication - patients reported that information and feedback that was personalised to their needs and lifestyles was the most effective for improving adherence to treatment; (3) facilitators of treatment adherence and completion - social, emotional and practical support improved adherence and completion, as did temporarily ceasing employment; (4) barriers to treatment adherence and completion - these included side effects, stigma, a complicated dosing schedule and limitations of the public healthcare system. CONCLUSION To increase treatment adherence and completion rates, a patient-centred approach is required that addresses patients' social, practical, and emotional support needs and adaptive coping strategies.
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Wong VWS, Liu CJ. Commentary: treatment of hepatitis C-related cirrhosis in the era of direct-acting anti-virals. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2014; 39:1427-8. [PMID: 24849149 DOI: 10.1111/apt.12745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- V W-S Wong
- State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China; Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China.
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Wong VWS, Wong GLH, Chim AML, Cheng TF, Cheung SWY, Lai CMS, Szeto KJY, Tsang S, Wu SHC, Yan KKL, Hui AY, Yiu DCH, Wu BBY, Cheung D, Chung CSL, Lai CWM, Chan HLY. Targeted hepatitis C screening among ex-injection drug users in the community. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2014; 29:116-20. [PMID: 24033786 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.12355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is one of the leading causes of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma worldwide. It is highly prevalent among injection drug users (IDUs) but is often undiagnosed because they represent an underprivileged group that faces multiple barriers to medical care. Here, we report the results of the New Life New Liver Project, which provides targeted HCV screening and education for ex-IDUs in the community. METHODS Patients were recruited through the social worker networks and referrals by fellow ex-IDUs, and rapid diagnosis was based on point-of-care anti-HCV testing at rehabilitation centers. RESULTS From 2009 to 2012, we served 234 subjects. One hundred thirty (56%) subjects were anti-HCV positive. The number needed to screen to detect one patient with positive anti-HCV was 1.8 (95% confidence interval, 1.6-2.0). However, only 69 (53%) HCV patients attended subsequent follow-up at regional hospitals, and 26 (20%) received antiviral therapy. Patients who attended follow-up were older, had higher education level and more active disease as evidenced by higher alanine aminotransferase, HCV RNA, and liver stiffness measurement by transient elastography. CONCLUSIONS Targeted screening in ex-IDUs is effective in identifying patients with HCV infection in the community. Improvement in the referral system and introduction of interferon-free regimens are needed to increase treatment uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Wai-Sun Wong
- Institute of Digestive Disease, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong; Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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Chen EY, Sclair SN, Czul F, Apica B, Dubin P, Martin P, Lee WM. A small percentage of patients with hepatitis C receive triple therapy with boceprevir or telaprevir. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2013; 11:1014-20.e1-2. [PMID: 23602817 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2013.03.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2013] [Revised: 03/20/2013] [Accepted: 03/21/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Protease inhibitor triple therapy for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection (boceprevir or telaprevir with pegylated interferon and ribavirin) has been shown to increase rates of sustained virologic response in phase 3 trials. We investigated the proportion of patients who began therapy with this regimen in the 12 months after the Food and Drug Administration approval of boceprevir and telaprevir in the United States. METHODS We performed a retrospective cross-sectional study of 487 patients with HCV genotype 1 infection (396 did not receive triple therapy, and 91 had begun triple therapy with boceprevir or telaprevir), who were seen at hepatology practices in Dallas and Miami from June 2011 through February 2012. The subjects were predominantly middle-aged, non-Hispanic white, and privately insured; 50% were treatment-naive, and most had advanced fibrosis. We compared features of patients who initiated triple therapy with those who deferred it. Treated patients were followed to determine the discontinuation rate in the first 12 weeks of treatment. RESULTS Of patients assessed, only 18.7% began triple therapy, the same percentage as those receiving dual therapy (pegylated interferon and ribavirin) before boceprevir or telaprevir was approved for treatment of HCV infection in the United States. Reasons for deferring treatment included relative contraindications (50.5%), patient choice (22.5%), and less advanced liver disease (17.4%). Among treated patients, 15% discontinued prematurely because of serious adverse events. On the basis of multivariate analysis, factors associated with initiation of triple therapy included prior treatment relapse (odds ratio [OR], 4.6; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.1-9.9) and liver fibrosis of stage 3 (OR, 9.1; 95% CI, 3.1-27) or stage 4 (OR, 9.0; 95% CI, 3.3-25) but not hepatic decompensation. CONCLUSIONS Only 18.7% of patients with HCV genotype 1 infection received triple therapy in the 12 months after Food and Drug Administration approval of boceprevir and telaprevir. This low percentage might result from concerns of side effects and recognition that more effective medications could be available in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emerson Y Chen
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical School and Parkland Health and Hospital System, Dallas, Texas 75390-8887, USA
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Delgado-Borrego A, Smith L, Jonas MM, Hall CA, Negre B, Jordan SH, Ogrodowicz M, Raza R, Ludwig DA, Miller T, Lipshultz SE, Gonzalez-Peralta R, Chung RT. Expected and actual case ascertainment and treatment rates for children infected with hepatitis C in Florida and the United States: epidemiologic evidence from statewide and nationwide surveys. J Pediatr 2012; 161:915-21. [PMID: 22765955 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2012.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2011] [Revised: 03/26/2012] [Accepted: 05/02/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the rate of pediatric hepatitis C virus (HCV) case ascertainment relative to the estimated number of actual cases. STUDY DESIGN Data from Florida and United States health departments were used to assess pediatric HCV case ascertainment rates in Florida and nationwide. The percentage of children infected with HCV from Miami-Dade County receiving medical care by a pediatric gastroenterologist was estimated based on data obtained from physician questionnaires. RESULTS From 2000 through 2009, 2007 children were identified as having positive HCV antibody tests in Florida, only 12% of the expected number (n = 12 155). An estimated 1.6% of the expected children with HCV who tested Ab-positive (37 of 1935) were actively followed by a pediatric gastroenterologist in Miami-Dade County, Florida. Across the United States, only 4.9% of the expected cases have been identified. CONCLUSIONS The identification of children infected with HCV in the nation as a whole is grossly inadequate. Only a small fraction of cases are identified. In Florida, less than 2% of children identified receive treatment. Lack of identification and lack of treatment of children infected with HCV constitute critical public health problems. Strategies to increase awareness of HCV infection and to screen at-risk individuals could substantially improve morbidity and mortality while reducing health care costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aymin Delgado-Borrego
- Department of Pediatrics, Batchelor Children's Research Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
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