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Webb P, Ireland J, Colledge-Frisby S, Peacock A, Leung J, Vickerman P, Farrell M, Hickman M, Grebely J, Degenhardt L. Patterns of drug use among people who inject drugs: A global systematic review and meta-analysis. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2024; 128:104455. [PMID: 38796926 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2024.104455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A better understanding of global patterns of drug use among people who inject drugs can inform interventions to reduce harms related to different use profiles. This review aimed to comprehensively present the geographical variation in drug consumption patterns among this population. METHODS Systematic searches of peer reviewed (PsycINFO, Medline, Embase) and grey literature published from 2008-2022 were conducted. Data on recent (past year) and lifetime drug use among people who inject drugs were included. Data were extracted on use of heroin, amphetamines, cocaine, benzodiazepines, cannabis, alcohol, and tobacco; where possible, estimates were disaggregated by route of administration (injecting, non-injecting, smoking). National estimates were generated and, where possible, regional, and global estimates were derived through meta-analysis. RESULTS Of 40,427 studies screened, 394 were included from 81 countries. Globally, an estimated 78.1 % (95 %CI:70.2-84.2) and 71.8 % (65.7-77.2) of people who inject drugs had recently used (via any route) and injected heroin, while an estimated 52.8 % (47.0-59.0) and 19.8 % (13.8-26.5) had recently used and injected amphetamines, respectively. Over 90 % reported recent tobacco use (93.5 % [90.8-95.3]) and recent alcohol use was 59.1 % (52.6-65.6). In Australasia recent heroin use was lowest (49.4 % [46.8-52.1]) while recent amphetamine injecting (64.0 % [60.8-67.1]) and recent use of cannabis (72.3 % [69.9-74.6]) were higher than in all other regions. Recent heroin use (86.1 % [78.3-91.4]) and non-injecting amphetamine use (43.3 % [38.4-48.3]) were highest in East and Southeast Asia. Recent amphetamine use (75.8 % [72.7-78.8]) and injecting heroin use (84.8 % (81.4-87.8) were highest in North America while non-injecting heroin use was highest in Western Europe (45.0 % [41.3-48.7]). CONCLUSION There is considerable variation in types of drugs and routes of administration used among people who inject drugs. This variation needs to be considered in national and global treatment and harm reduction interventions to target the specific behaviours and harms associated with these regional profiles of use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paige Webb
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Jeremy Ireland
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Samantha Colledge-Frisby
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia; National Drug Research Institute (NDRI) Melbourne, Curtin University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Amy Peacock
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia; School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Janni Leung
- National Centre for Youth Substance Use Research, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Peter Vickerman
- Population Health Science, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, England
| | - Michael Farrell
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Matthew Hickman
- Population Health Science, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, England
| | | | - Louisa Degenhardt
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Harris M, Scott J, Hope V, Busza J, Sweeney S, Preston A, Southwell M, Eastwood N, Vuckovic C, McGaff C, Yoon I, Wilkins L, Ram S, Lord C, Bonnet P, Furlong P, Simpson N, Slater H, Platt L. Safe inhalation pipe provision (SIPP): protocol for a mixed-method evaluation of an intervention to improve health outcomes and service engagement among people who use crack cocaine in England. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:19. [PMID: 38263202 PMCID: PMC10804795 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-00938-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over 180,000 people use crack cocaine in England, yet provision of smoking equipment to support safer crack use is prohibited under UK law. Pipes used for crack cocaine smoking are often homemade and/or in short supply, leading to pipe sharing and injuries from use of unsafe materials. This increases risk of viral infection and respiratory harm among a marginalised underserved population. International evaluations suggest crack pipe supply leads to sustained reductions in pipe sharing and use of homemade equipment; increased health risk awareness; improved service access; reduction in injecting and crack-related health problems. In this paper, we introduce the protocol for the NIHR-funded SIPP (Safe inhalation pipe provision) project and discuss implications for impact. METHODS The SIPP study will develop, implement and evaluate a crack smoking equipment and training intervention to be distributed through peer networks and specialist drug services in England. Study components comprise: (1) peer-network capacity building and co-production; (2) a pre- and post-intervention survey at intervention and non-equivalent control sites; (3) a mixed-method process evaluation; and (4) an economic evaluation. Participant eligibility criteria are use of crack within the past 28 days, with a survey sample of ~ 740 for each impact evaluation survey point and ~ 40 for qualitative process evaluation interviews. Our primary outcome measure is pipe sharing within the past 28 days, with secondary outcomes pertaining to use of homemade pipes, service engagement, injecting practice and acute health harms. ANTICIPATED IMPACT SIPP aims to reduce crack use risk practices and associated health harms; including through increasing crack harm reduction awareness among service providers and peers. Implementation has only been possible with local police approvals. Our goal is to generate an evidence base to inform review of the legislation prohibiting crack pipe supply in the UK. This holds potential to transform harm reduction service provision and engagement nationally. CONCLUSION People who smoke crack cocaine in England currently have little reason to engage with harm reduction and drug services. Little is known about this growing population. This study will provide insight into population characteristics, unmet need and the case for legislative reform. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN12541454 https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN12541454.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Harris
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, WC1H 9SH, UK.
| | - Jenny Scott
- Centre for Academic Primary Care, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Canynge Hall, Bristol, BS8 2PS, UK
| | - Vivian Hope
- Public Health Institute/School of Public and Allied Health, Liverpool John Moores University, 3rd Floor Exchange Station, Tithebarn Street, Liverpool, L2 2QP, UK
| | - Joanna Busza
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, WC1H 9SH, UK
| | - Sedona Sweeney
- Department of Global Health and Development, LSHTM, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, WC1H 9SH, UK
| | - Andrew Preston
- Exchange Supplies, 1 Great Western Industrial Centre, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1, UK
| | | | | | - Cedomir Vuckovic
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, WC1H 9SH, UK
| | - Caitlynne McGaff
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, WC1H 9SH, UK
| | - Ian Yoon
- Department of Global Health and Development, LSHTM, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, WC1H 9SH, UK
| | - Louise Wilkins
- The Health Shop, 12 Broad Street, Nottingham, NG1 3AL, UK
| | - Shoba Ram
- The Maples, Verona House, 53 Filwood Rd, Bristol, BS16 3RX, UK
| | - Catherine Lord
- Bristol Drugs Project, 11 Brunswick Square, St Paul's, Bristol, BS2 8PE, UK
| | - Philippe Bonnet
- The Hepatitis C Trust, 72 Weston Street, London, SE1 3QG, UK
| | - Peter Furlong
- Change Grow Live, 34 Albion Place, Leeds, LS1 6JH, UK
| | | | - Holly Slater
- POW Nottingham, 16 Independent Street, Nottingham, NG7 3LN, UK
| | - Lucy Platt
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London, WC1H 9SH, UK
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Portilio MN, Prado MC, Rigo L. Is drug use associated with the presence of periodontitis and oral lesions? A meta-analysis. J Periodontal Implant Sci 2023; 53:53.e52. [PMID: 38014773 DOI: 10.5051/jpis.2302920146] [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: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This systematic review investigated whether drug use is associated with the presence of oral lesions and periodontitis. METHODS A search was performed for studies that analyzed the presence of periodontitis and/or oral lesions in users of crack, cocaine, and/or marijuana in the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Observational studies in English, Spanish, or Portuguese, without limitation of year, age, and sex, were included. Studies that did not evaluate periodontitis and oral lesions according to the eligibility criteria were excluded. Two authors independently performed study selection and data extraction using a standardized form. The risk of bias of studies included in the meta-analysis was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist. The meta-analysis included studies that investigated the association of drug use with the outcome. RESULTS The initial search resulted in 9,279 articles, from which 16 studies with 15,434 participants were included in the review and 8 studies were included in the meta-analysis. Most studies that evaluated periodontitis in drug users and non-users found a positive association in users. Most studies that analyzed oral lesions reported a higher prevalence, association, or risk of oral lesions in drug users than in non-users. A critical evaluation identified a need to improve the control and reporting of confounding factors in studies on this topic. An association was found between periodontitis and the use of crack, cocaine, and/or marijuana (odds ratio [OR], 1.84; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.04-3.27; P=0.04) and between oral lesions and the use of these drugs (OR, 2.13; 95% CI, 1.58-2.86; P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS Drug users are more likely to develop oral lesions and periodontitis than non-users. However, the results should be interpreted with caution, considering the heterogeneity and quality of the studies included in the analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mayara Colpo Prado
- Graduate Program in Dentistry, ATITUS Education, Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil
| | - Lilian Rigo
- Graduate Program in Dentistry, ATITUS Education, Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil.
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Tapper A, Ahern C, Graveline-Long Z, Newberger NG, Hughto JMW. The utilization and delivery of safer smoking practices and services: a narrative synthesis of the literature. Harm Reduct J 2023; 20:160. [PMID: 37891658 PMCID: PMC10612300 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-023-00875-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Providing sterile drug smoking materials to people who use drugs can prevent the acquisition of infectious diseases and reduce overdose risk. However, there is a lack of understanding of how these practices are being implemented and received by people who use drugs globally. METHODS A systematic review of safer smoking practices was conducted by searching PubMed, PsycInfo, Embase for relevant peer-reviewed, English-language publications from inception or the availability of online manuscripts through December 2022. RESULTS Overall, 32 peer-reviewed papers from six countries were included. 30 studies exclusively included people who use drugs as participants (n = 11 people who use drugs; generally, n = 17 people who smoke drugs, n = 2 people who inject drugs). One study included program staff serving people who use drugs, and one study included staff and people who use drugs. Sharing smoking equipment (e.g., pipes) was reported in 25 studies. People who use drugs in several studies reported that pipe sharing occurred for multiple reasons, including wanting to accumulate crack resin and protect themselves from social harms, such as police harassment. Across studies, smoking drugs, as opposed to injecting drugs, were described as a crucial method to reduce the risk of overdose, disease acquisition, and societal harms such as police violence. Ten studies found that when people who use drugs were provided with safer smoking materials, they engaged in fewer risky drug use behaviors (e.g., pipe sharing, using broken pipes) and showed improved health outcomes. However, participants across 11 studies reported barriers to accessing safer smoking services. Solutions to overcoming safer smoking access barriers were described in 17 studies and included utilizing peer workers and providing safer smoking materials to those who asked. CONCLUSION This global review found that safer smoking practices are essential forms of harm reduction. International policies must be amended to help increase access to these essential tools. Additional research is also needed to evaluate the efficacy of and access to safer smoking services, particularly in the U.S. and other similar countries, where such practices are being implemented but have not been empirically studied in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Noam G Newberger
- Department of Psychology, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Jaclyn M W Hughto
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
- Center for Health Promotion and Health Equity, Brown University, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
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Martin AK, Perryman T, Bernstein JA, Taylor JL, Cruz R, Muroff J, Samet JH, Assoumou SA. Peer recovery coaching for comprehensive HIV, hepatitis C, and opioid use disorder management: The CHORUS pilot study. DRUG AND ALCOHOL DEPENDENCE REPORTS 2023; 7:100156. [PMID: 37113387 PMCID: PMC10126838 DOI: 10.1016/j.dadr.2023.100156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Amidst a surge in HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections in persons who use drugs, medications that effectively prevent HIV and treat opioid use disorder and HCV remain underutilized. Methods We developed a 6-month peer recovery coaching intervention (brief motivational interviewing followed by weekly virtual or in-person coaching) and collected data on uptake of medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and HCV treatment. The primary outcomes were intervention acceptability and feasibility. Results At a Boston substance use disorder bridge clinic, we enrolled 31 HIV-negative patients who used opioids. Participants reported high intervention satisfaction at 6 months (95% "satisfied" or "very satisfied"). At study completion, 48% of the participants were on MOUD, 43% who met CDC guidelines were on PrEP, and 22% with HCV were engaged with treatment. Conclusions A peer recovery coaching intervention is feasible and acceptable, with positive preliminary findings regarding MOUD, PrEP and HCV treatment uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna K. Martin
- Section of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston Medical Center and Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Tyshaun Perryman
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Judith A. Bernstein
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jessica L. Taylor
- Section of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston Medical Center and Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- Grayken Center for Addiction, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Ricardo Cruz
- Section of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston Medical Center and Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jordana Muroff
- Boston University School of Social Work, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jeffrey H. Samet
- Section of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston Medical Center and Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Sabrina A. Assoumou
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States
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Korona-Bailey J, Riley Saint S, Sizemore L, Wingate H, Shoup P, Hawes A, Mukhopadhyay S. Prevalence of hepatitis C virus among fatal drug overdoses in Tennessee: an analysis using 2019-2020 Tennessee State Unintentional Drug Overdose Reporting System Data. Ann Epidemiol 2023; 80:1-8. [PMID: 36758846 DOI: 10.1016/j.annepidem.2023.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Given the nature of the co-occurring epidemics of hepatitis C virus (HCV) and fatal stimulant overdose, we sought to assess the prevalence of HCV among opioid and stimulant-positive overdoses. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study to examine the prevalence of HCV among fatal drug overdoses in Tennessee using 2019-2020 data from the State Unintentional Drug Overdose Reporting System. We defined history of HCV using surveillance data and autopsy reports. Descriptive statistics were calculated for circumstances of overdose deaths for different categories of opioid and stimulant positivity on toxicology. RESULTS Between 2019 and 2020, 3570 unintentional or undetermined drug overdose deaths occurred in Tennessee with an available autopsy. History of HCV was found in 24.6% of deaths. When assessing different involvement between stimulants and opioids, the highest prevalence of HCV was found for deaths where methamphetamine and opioids were present in toxicology (35.4%). Scene evidence of injection drug use occurred more frequently among decedents with a history of HCV (P < .0001). CONCLUSIONS This analysis while descriptive highlights the importance of linking datasets to enhance infectious disease and drug overdose surveillance. Partnership between communicable disease and drug overdose surveillance teams should continue to identify relationships between disease and drug overdose and strengthen the evidence to tailor crucial treatment and prevention activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Korona-Bailey
- Tennessee Department of Health, Office of Informatics and Analytics, Andrew Johnson Tower 7th Floor, 710 James Robertson Parkway, Nashville, TN.
| | - Sarah Riley Saint
- Tennessee Department of Health, Office of Informatics and Analytics, Andrew Johnson Tower 7th Floor, 710 James Robertson Parkway, Nashville, TN.
| | - Lindsey Sizemore
- Tennessee Department of Health, Communicable and Environmental Disease and Emergency Preparedness, Andrew Johnson Tower, 4th Floor, 710 James Robertson Parkway, Nashville, TN.
| | - Heather Wingate
- Tennessee Department of Health, Communicable and Environmental Disease and Emergency Preparedness, Andrew Johnson Tower, 4th Floor, 710 James Robertson Parkway, Nashville, TN.
| | - Paula Shoup
- Tennessee Department of Health, Communicable and Environmental Disease and Emergency Preparedness, Andrew Johnson Tower, 4th Floor, 710 James Robertson Parkway, Nashville, TN.
| | - Amy Hawes
- Tennessee Department of Health, Office of the State Chief Medical Examiner, Andrew Johnson Tower, 7th Floor, 710 James Robertson Parkway, Nashville, TN.
| | - Sutapa Mukhopadhyay
- Tennessee Department of Health, Office of Informatics and Analytics, Andrew Johnson Tower 7th Floor, 710 James Robertson Parkway, Nashville, TN.
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Silva E, Marques S, Leal B, Canhão B, Madaleno J, Simão A, Carvalho A. Occult hepatitis C infection identified in injection drug users with direct antiviral agents therapy and spontaneous resolution of hepatitis C virus infection. Virus Res 2023; 329:199104. [PMID: 37003528 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2023.199104] [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: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Occult hepatitis C infection (OCI) is characterized by the detection of hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA in hepatocytes and in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) without detection in serum. We aimed to evaluate OCI in drug and no drug users who achieved sustained virological response (SVR) after therapy with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) and with HCV spontaneous resolution. METHODS Twenty-four patients in the AVP group (who achieved a SVR after DAAs therapy), 13 in the NAVP group (with HCV spontaneous resolution) and 7 HCV-RNA positive patients (CPP, control positive group) were included in the study. HCV/OCI-RNA was screened in serum and PBMCs samples of the patients by ddPCR for OCI patients' identification. Plasma and red blood cells (RBCs) samples of the patients were also evaluated for HCV/OCI-RNA detection by ddPCR. RESULTS OCI was presented in injection drug users (IDUs) in the AVP (20.8%) and NAVP (23.1%) groups by ddPCR with a higher statistically significant percentage detected in RBCs samples of the patients in the AVP group comparatively to NAVP (p<0.01) and CPP (p < 0.05) groups. CONCLUSION OCI was identified in IDUs patients of the AVP and NAVP groups by ddPCR. These results suggest that OCI patients in the AVP group might not be entirely cured, and that OCI patients in the NAVP group were not identified at clinical evaluation time when just serum samples were analysed. A higher percentage of HCV/OCI-RNA was detected in RBCs samples. Overall results recommends that HCV/OCI identification in patients with DAAs therapy and spontaneous resolution of HCV infection should be studied more accurately in future and in larger patient groups if possible. Additionally, suggest also PBMCs and RBCs samples as predictors for HCV/OCI diagnosis and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliane Silva
- Research Center in Biodiversity and Genetic Resources (CIBIO/InBIO), University of Porto, Vairão, Portugal; School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences of the University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Porto, Portugal.
| | - Sara Marques
- Research Center in Biodiversity and Genetic Resources (CIBIO/InBIO), University of Porto, Vairão, Portugal
| | - Bárbara Leal
- Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB) at 2School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences of the University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Porto, Portugal; Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), Porto, Portugal
| | - Bernardo Canhão
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Coimbra Hospital and University Center (CHUC), Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Madaleno
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Coimbra Hospital and University Center (CHUC), Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Adélia Simão
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Coimbra Hospital and University Center (CHUC), Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Armando Carvalho
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; Coimbra Hospital and University Center (CHUC), Coimbra, Portugal
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Ghosh A, Mahintamani T, Rana DK, Basu D, Mattoo SK, Premkumar M, Singh GK. Neurocognitive Functions in Patients with Comorbid Hepatitis C and Opioid Dependence: A Comparative Study. Indian J Psychol Med 2023; 45:146-154. [PMID: 36925501 PMCID: PMC10011847 DOI: 10.1177/02537176221127449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is commonly comorbid with opioid dependence (OD). We wanted to compare the neurocognitive functions of OD subjects with or without HCV [HCV (+), HCV (-)] and healthy controls (HC). Methods We recruited 40 adult subjects (age 18-55 years) in each group. HCV(+) group had a detectable viral load. Subjects with HIV or hepatitis B infection, head injury, epilepsy, or comorbid mental illness were excluded. We administered Standard Progressive Matrices (SPM), Wisconsin Card Sorting Test, Iowa Gambling Task (IGT), trail-making tests A and B, and verbal and visual N-back tests (NBT) one week after opioid abstinence. The group differences in cognitive performance were adjusted for age and years of education. Effect size (ES) is expressed as Cohen's D. Results The HCV(+) and HCV(-) groups did not differ in potential effect modifiers (age and years of education) or confounders (age of opioid initiation, duration of use, dependence severity, tobacco use, and cannabis use) of neuropsychological functioning. HCV(+) showed significantly poorer performance than HCV(-) in SPM (P = 0.006; ES = 0.72). Both HCV(+) and HCV(-) performed worse than controls in IGT(P < 0.001; ES = 0.8) and visual NBT[P < 0.01 and ES > 1 for total errors]; HCV(+) had a larger ES of group difference than HCV(-). HCV(+) had higher error scores in verbal NBT than control. Conclusion HCV(+) has poorer general intellectual ability and reasoning than HCV(-) persons and controls. Chronic HCV infection causes a higher magnitude of dysfunction in decision-making and visual working memory in opioid-dependent individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Ghosh
- Drug Deaddiction and Treatment Centre & Dept. of Psychiatry, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Tathagata Mahintamani
- Lokopriya Gopinath Bordoloi Regional Institute of Mental Health, Tezpur, Assam, India
| | - Devender K Rana
- Drug Deaddiction and Treatment Centre & Dept. of Psychiatry, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Debasish Basu
- Drug Deaddiction and Treatment Centre & Dept. of Psychiatry, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | | | - Madhumita Premkumar
- Dept. of Hepatology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Geetesh Kumar Singh
- National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
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Epidemiology of Hepatitis C Virus Infection Among High-risk Populations in Northeastern Iran. HEPATITIS MONTHLY 2022. [DOI: 10.5812/hepatmon-127166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
Background: Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection affects 58 million people globally. The frequency of HCV infection in the general Iranian population is less than 0.5%; however, a concentrated epidemic was reported among people who use drugs, particularly those with a history of drug injection. Objectives: This cross-sectional study was performed to assess the prevalence of HCV infection among high-risk groups outside of prison in northeastern Iran. Methods: A total of 962 participants in Razavi Khorasan province were enrolled from 2018 to 2022. They included drug users referred to drug treatment and harm reduction centers and individuals with a history of crimes such as drug use or imprisonment who worked in a private industrial unit. Serum anti-HCV antibodies were assessed using a rapid or ELISA kit, and seroreactive samples were confirmed by single-step reverse transcriptase or qualitative real-time polymerase chain reactions. A P-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The mean age of 707 males and 255 females was 39.8 ± 10.2 years. Anti-HCV antibodies were detected from 129 samples (13.41%), of which 117 were available for polymerase chain reaction testing. HCV RNA was detected in 88 cases (75.2%); the total viremia rate was calculated as 9.26% (88/950). Logistic regression analysis revealed that HCV infection among drug users was significantly associated with older age (P = 0.002), being single (P = 0.009), and history of drug injection (P < 0.001) or incarceration (P = 0.04). Conclusions: The findings showed a considerably high prevalence of HCV infection among people who use drugs in northeastern Iran. To achieve the global goal of viral hepatitis elimination by 2030, we strongly recommend stricter screening and treatment of this infection among such hard-to-access populations in Iran.
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Adedotun IO, Abdul-Hammed M, Hamzat BA, Adepoju AJ, Akinboade MW, Afolabi TI, Ismail UT. Molecular docking, ADMET analysis, and bioactivity studies of phytochemicals from Phyllanthus niruri as potential inhibitors of hepatitis C virus NSB5 polymerase. J INDIAN CHEM SOC 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jics.2021.100321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Narayanamurthy V, Jeroish ZE, Bhuvaneshwari KS, Samsuri F. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) diagnosis via microfluidics. ANALYTICAL METHODS : ADVANCING METHODS AND APPLICATIONS 2021; 13:740-763. [PMID: 33511975 DOI: 10.1039/d0ay02045a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Humans are subjected to various diseases; hence, proper diagnosis helps avoid further disease consequences. One such severe issue that could cause significant damage to the human liver is the hepatitis C virus (HCV). Several techniques are available to detect HCV under various categories, such as detection through antibodies, antigens, and RNA. Although immunoassays play a significant role in discovering hepatitis viruses, there is a need for point-of-care tests (POCT). Some developing strategies are required to ensure the appropriate selection of POCT for HCV detection, initiate appropriate antiviral therapy, and define associated risks, which will be critical in achieving optimal outcomes. Though molecular assays are precise, reproducible, sensitive, and specific, alternative strategies are required to enhance HCV diagnosis among the infected population. Herein, we described and assessed the potential of various microfluidic detection techniques and confirmatory approaches used in present communities. In addition, current key market players in HCV chip-based diagnosis and the future perspectives on the basis of which the diagnosis can be made easier are presented in the present review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vigneswaran Narayanamurthy
- Fakulti Teknologi Kejuruteraan Elektrik dan Elektronik, Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka, Hang Tuah Jaya, 76100 Durian Tunggal, Melaka, Malaysia.
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12
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Leonard LE, Wilson L, Germain A, Pelude L, Vannice S. The Urgent Need to Respond to HIV- and HCV-Related Risk Practices among Youth in Ottawa Who Smoke Crack. Subst Use Misuse 2021; 56:1-10. [PMID: 33086934 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2020.1823416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
A community-based research project, Project Rock sought to provide evidence to respond to the community-identified need to more fully understand the parameters of the social and risk profiles of youth in Ottawa who smoked crack. Objectives: In this article we examine engagement in HIV and HCV risk-related smoking practices, and experiences accessing safer inhalation supplies with the objective of identifying potential intervention points and associated harm reduction interventions to initiate and support safer inhalation practices. Methods: The study comprised four sequential components - formation and facilitation of a Youth Project team, qualitative interviews, and member checking workshops - each component building on the preceding and all contributing to the final and fourth component of the interviewer-administered quantitative survey from which data for this article are drawn. Eligibility criteria: capable of informed consent; aged between 16 and 25 years; had ever injected drugs or had ever tried crack or had used two or more hard drugs in the three months preceding their interview. Recruitment cards distributed by community agencies, honoraria and debriefing offered. Separate consent obtained for collection of finger prick blood samples for HIV and HCV laboratory testing. Results: 125 young people completed personal interviews in November 2013. This article is restricted to those 97 participants who had smoked crack. High rates of engagement in documented HIV- and HCV-related crack smoking practices were reported including nonuse of mouthpieces, use of non-recommended smoking devices and frequent engagement in equipment sharing; engagement compounded by the heightened confirmed prevalence of HCV. Conclusion: The youth in our study explained the utility of crack in their lives. Given the mental health drivers of engagement, ease of accessibility and availability, engagement in smoking crack is clearly likely to continue, firmly indicating the urgent necessity to ensure its safer use through gender neutral, youth-specific enhanced programming and resource distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynne Elizabeth Leonard
- HIV and HCV Prevention Research Team, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lindsay Wilson
- HIV and HCV Prevention Research Team, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrée Germain
- HIV and HCV Prevention Research Team, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Linda Pelude
- HIV and HCV Prevention Research Team, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sarah Vannice
- HIV and HCV Prevention Research Team, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Havens JR, Knudsen HK, Strickland JC, Young AM, Babalonis S, Lofwall MR, Walsh SL. Recent Increase in Methamphetamine Use in a Cohort of Rural People Who Use Drugs: Further Evidence for the Emergence of Twin Epidemics. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:805002. [PMID: 35069295 PMCID: PMC8777215 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.805002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Appalachian Kentucky was at the epicenter of the prescription opioid epidemic in the early 2000's. As we enter the third decade of the epidemic, patterns have begun to emerge as people who use drugs (PWUD) transition from use of opioids to other drugs. The purpose of this analysis was to examine longitudinal changes in methamphetamine use in an ongoing cohort of rural people who use drugs (PWUD) in Appalachian Kentucky. All but five of the cohort participants (N = 503) reported nonmedical prescription opioid use (NMPOU) at baseline and those 498 are included in this longitudinal analysis encompassing eight waves of data (2008-2020). Past 6-month use of methamphetamine was the dependent variable. Given the correlated nature of the data, mixed effects logistic regression was utilized to examine changes in methamphetamine use over time. Significant increases in methamphetamine use were observed over the past decade in this cohort of PWUD, especially in recent years (2017-2020). Prevalence of recent use at baseline and each of the follow-up visits was as follows: 9.4, 5.6, 5.0, 5.4, 8.1, 6.8, 6.9, and 33.1%, respectively (p < 0.001). On the contrary, significant reductions in NMPO and heroin use were observed in the same time period. The odds of methamphetamine use at the most recent visit were 25.8 times greater than at baseline (95% CI: 14.9, 44.6) and 52.6% of those reporting methamphetamine use reported injecting the drug. These results provide further evidence of "twin epidemics" of methamphetamine use among NMPOU. While problematic on several fronts, of particular concern is the lack of effective treatment options for methamphetamine use disorder. As policies around the opioid epidemic continue to evolve, particular attention should be paid to the surge in stimulant use in opioid-endemic areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer R Havens
- Department of Behavioral Science, Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Hannah K Knudsen
- Department of Behavioral Science, Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Justin C Strickland
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - April M Young
- Department of Behavioral Science, Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, United States.,Department of Epidemiology, University of Kentucky College of Public Health, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Shanna Babalonis
- Department of Behavioral Science, Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Michelle R Lofwall
- Department of Behavioral Science, Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Sharon L Walsh
- Department of Behavioral Science, Center on Drug and Alcohol Research, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, United States
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Ly TDA, Hoang VT, Louni M, Dao TL, Badiaga S, Tissot-Dupont H, Brouqui P, Colson P, Gautret P. Epidemiological serosurvey and molecular characterization of sexually transmitted infections among 1890 sheltered homeless people in Marseille: Cross-sectional one day-surveys (2000-2015). J Infect 2020; 82:60-66. [PMID: 33279534 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2020.11.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Revised: 11/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We observed the prevalence and distribution of potential risk factors for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among Marseille homeless population. METHODS Over the 2000-2015 period, we enrolled 1890 sheltered homeless adults and collected serum samples. Markers of hepatitis B and C viruses (HBV, HCV) and Treponema pallidum were searched using the CMIA testing. Positive HBsAg or anti-HCV samples underwent sequencing; positive anti-T. pallidum sera were subjected to the RPR test. RESULTS The overall prevalence of HBsAg, anti-HBs, anti-HBc, anti-HCV and anti-T. pallidum (by CMIA and RPR) was 4.1%, 22.9%, 35.5%, 5.3% and (6.8%, 1.0%), respectively. We found a significantly higher prevalence of HBsAg and anti-T. pallidum among individuals born in sub-Saharan Africa (or Asia) compared to those born in Europe. Being older (>42 years), toxicomania status, cannabis use and underweight status (compared to normal status) were independent factors associated with HCV seropositivity. Using sequencing, we obtained a substantial diversity of HBV and HCV genotypes. One HCV sequence harbouring a L31M substitution in the NS5a protein may be associated with reduced drug sensitivity. CONCLUSIONS The positive relationship between toxicomania and HCV suggests the need for effective prevention programmes including health education activities and addiction treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tran Duc Anh Ly
- IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Aix Marseille Univ, Marseille, France; IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Van Thuan Hoang
- IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Aix Marseille Univ, Marseille, France; IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France; Family Medicine Department, Thai Binh University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Viet Nam
| | - Meriem Louni
- IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Aix Marseille Univ, Marseille, France; IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Thi Loi Dao
- IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Aix Marseille Univ, Marseille, France; IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France; Pneumology Department, Thai Binh University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Viet Nam
| | - Sekene Badiaga
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France; Service des urgences CHU Hôpital Nord, Aix Marseille Univ, Viet Nam
| | - Herve Tissot-Dupont
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France; Aix Marseille Univ, MEPHI, Marseille, France
| | - Philippe Brouqui
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France; Aix Marseille Univ, MEPHI, Marseille, France
| | - Philippe Colson
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France; Aix Marseille Univ, MEPHI, Marseille, France
| | - Philippe Gautret
- IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, Aix Marseille Univ, Marseille, France; IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France.
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15
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Rodrigues MSA, Nascimento RS, Fonseca RRS, Silva-Oliveira GC, Machado LFA, Kupek E, Fischer B, Oliveira-Filho AB. Oral HPV among people who use crack-cocaine: prevalence, genotypes, risk factors, and key interventions in a remote Northern Brazilian region. Clin Oral Investig 2020; 25:759-767. [PMID: 33222054 DOI: 10.1007/s00784-020-03698-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study estimated the prevalence, genotype distribution, and the factors associated with oral human papillomavirus (HPV) in people who use crack-cocaine (PWUCC) in a remote Brazilian region. MATERIALS AND METHODS This cross-sectional study used community-based snowball sampling methods for participant recruitment. Socio-demographic, economic, drug use, and health-related information was collected from 278 PWUCC in the cities of Bragança and Capanema in northern Brazil. HPV diagnosis and genotyping were performed by a real-time polymerase chain reaction. Logistic regression identified the factors independently associated with oral HPV. RESULTS In total, 111 (39.9%) PWUCC had HPV DNA. Several genotypes were identified, some of them with high oncogenic potential. Crack-cocaine use ≥40 months, unprotected sex, more than 10 sexual partners in the last 12 months, oral sex, exchange of sex for money or illicit drugs, oral mucosa lesions, not having access to public health services, and the absence of vaccination against HPV was all associated with HPV DNA. CONCLUSIONS This study identified important epidemiological characteristics of oral HPV infection among PWUCC-a highly marginalized risk population-underlining the high prevalence of oral HPV with oncogenic potential and the urgent need for control and prevention measures, especially vaccination against this virus. CLINICAL RELEVANCE It is necessary to understand the prevalence and risk factors of oral HPV in risk populations as people who use crack-cocaine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayara Sabrina A Rodrigues
- Grupo de Estudo e Pesquisa em Populações Vulneráveis, Instituto de Estudos Costeiros, Universidade Federal do Pará, Rua Leandro Ribeiro, s/n. Aldeia, Bragança, PA, Brazil
- Residência Multiprofissional em Saúde da Mulher e da Criança, Hospital Santo Antonio Maria Zaccaria, Bragança, PA, Brazil
| | - Raquel Silva Nascimento
- Grupo de Estudo e Pesquisa em Populações Vulneráveis, Instituto de Estudos Costeiros, Universidade Federal do Pará, Rua Leandro Ribeiro, s/n. Aldeia, Bragança, PA, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Ambiental, Universidade Federal do Pará, Bragança, PA, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Roberto S Fonseca
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia de Agentes Infecciosos e Parasitários, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, PA, Brazil
- Laboratório de Virologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, PA, Brazil
| | - Gláucia C Silva-Oliveira
- Grupo de Estudo e Pesquisa em Populações Vulneráveis, Instituto de Estudos Costeiros, Universidade Federal do Pará, Rua Leandro Ribeiro, s/n. Aldeia, Bragança, PA, Brazil
| | - Luiz Fernando A Machado
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia de Agentes Infecciosos e Parasitários, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, PA, Brazil
- Laboratório de Virologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, PA, Brazil
| | - Emil Kupek
- Departamento de Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
| | - Benedikt Fischer
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Grafton, New Zealand
- Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, Canada
- Departamento de Psiquiatria, Federal Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Aldemir B Oliveira-Filho
- Grupo de Estudo e Pesquisa em Populações Vulneráveis, Instituto de Estudos Costeiros, Universidade Federal do Pará, Rua Leandro Ribeiro, s/n. Aldeia, Bragança, PA, Brazil.
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Ambiental, Universidade Federal do Pará, Bragança, PA, Brazil.
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Cai Y, Dai Z, Wen S, Bhandari R. Risk factors associated with infection of blood-borne virus among people who used methamphetamine. BMC Infect Dis 2020; 20:742. [PMID: 33036558 PMCID: PMC7547473 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-020-05464-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The surge of methamphetamine use has been a complicating factor compounding the steeply increasing number of drug overdose deaths in the U.S. Infection from blood-borne viruses including hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and HIV, related to methamphetamine use continue to grow. This study aims to examine the risk factors associated with HBV, HCV and HIV among people who used methamphetamine. METHODS People who ever used methamphetamine were identified from five National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) cohorts, 2007 to 2016. The outcome was either positive or negative for blood-borne viruses as identified from laboratory tests. Weighted statistics for the combined ten years of data were calculated by multiplying the weighted variable for laboratory measurements by 0.2. We examined the association of sexual activities (sexual partners, sexual identity), drug use behaviors (poly-drug use, injection drug use, frequency of drug use, age started using methamphetamine), demographics, and socio-economic status with blood-borne viruses using bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models. RESULTS There were 1132 participants representing approximately 11,996,319 persons who ever used methamphetamine in the U.S. Blood-borne viruses' positive rate was 13.0 per 100,000. Multivariable logistic regression analyses showed significant associations of blood-borne infections with age 40-49 years (vs. age 20-29 years, adjusted odds ratio 4.77, 95% CI 1.11-20.55), age 50-59 years (vs. age 20-29 years, 10.25, 2.40-43.82), living within poverty index 1-1.9 (vs. poverty index > = 2, 2.55; 1.19-5.49), living below the poverty threshold (vs. poverty index > = 2, 2.55; 1.11-5.86), having lower than high school education (vs. equal or higher than high school education, 3.13; 1.51-6.46), sexual identity as other than heterosexual (vs. heterosexual, 5.60; 1.72-18.28), using methamphetamine and heroin and cocaine (vs. using methamphetamine alone, 4.24; 1.06-16.92), injection drug use (vs. no injection drug use, 3.15; 1.61-6.16), and started using methamphetamine at age above 25 (vs. started using methamphetamine at age between 10 and 17, 2.09; 1.01-4.35). CONCLUSIONS Among people who use methamphetamine, those who use polysubstance, or who inject substances, are in urgent need for vaccination and interventions to avoid further harm from blood borne infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilin Cai
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, West Virginia University, One Medical Center Drive, Morgantown, WV, 26506, USA
| | - Zheng Dai
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, West Virginia University, One Medical Center Drive, Morgantown, WV, 26506, USA.
| | - Sijin Wen
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, West Virginia University, One Medical Center Drive, Morgantown, WV, 26506, USA
| | - Ruchi Bhandari
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, West Virginia University, One Medical Center Drive, Morgantown, WV, 26506, USA
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Speed KA, Gehring ND, Launier K, O'Brien D, Campbell S, Hyshka E. To what extent do supervised drug consumption services incorporate non-injection routes of administration? A systematic scoping review documenting existing facilities. Harm Reduct J 2020; 17:72. [PMID: 33028363 PMCID: PMC7539556 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-020-00414-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most of the existing research on supervised consumption services (SCS) is focused on injection drug use. Less is known about the applicability of SCS for people who consume drugs orally, intranasally, or through inhalation. This is problematic because people who use drugs through modes other than injection are also at risk of overdose death and other harm, and experience barriers accessing health and social services. We aimed to describe existing SCS models that accommodate these alternate routes of drug consumption, and synthesize available information on characteristics of program participants. METHODS We conducted a systematic scoping review of 9 peer-reviewed and 13 grey literature databases on SCS that incorporate non-injection routes of consumption. We screened 22,882 titles, and excluded 22,843 (99.8%) articles. We ultimately included 39 (0.2%) full-text articles; 28 (72%) of these articles explicitly identified SCS that permit alternate routes of consumption and 21 (54%) discussed characteristics of participants who consume drugs through non-injection routes. Data on study characteristics, terms and definitions, and site and program participant characteristics were extracted and double-coded. Extracted data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and narrative synthesis. RESULTS Included articles describe 48 SCS that permit non-injection routes of consumption, most of which were located in Germany. The majority of these SCS were legally sanctioned and had models of care that were largely comparable to supervised injection services. Notable differences included physical infrastructure such as ventilated rooms or outdoor areas to accommodate inhalation, and shorter time limits on non-injection drug consumption episodes. Program participants engaging in non-injection forms of consumption were typically men over the age of 30 and structurally vulnerable (e.g., experiencing homelessness or unstable housing). CONCLUSIONS Extant academic and grey literature indicates that site characteristics and demographics of program participants of SCS that permit non-injection routes of consumption largely reflect those of supervised injection services. Further research on the range of existing SCS that incorporate non-injection routes of consumption is needed to ensure high quality service provision, and improved health outcomes for people who consume drugs via oral, intranasal, and inhalation routes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey A Speed
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Inner City Health and Wellness Program, Royal Alexandra Hospital, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Nicole D Gehring
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Inner City Health and Wellness Program, Royal Alexandra Hospital, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Katherine Launier
- Inner City Health and Wellness Program, Royal Alexandra Hospital, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Daniel O'Brien
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Inner City Health and Wellness Program, Royal Alexandra Hospital, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Sandy Campbell
- John W. Scott Health Sciences Library, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Elaine Hyshka
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
- Inner City Health and Wellness Program, Royal Alexandra Hospital, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
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Min JE, Pearce LA, Janjua NZ, Ti L, Nosyk B. The Causal Effect of Opioid Agonist Treatment on Adherence to Direct-Acting Antiviral Treatment for Hepatitis C Virus. Open Forum Infect Dis 2020. [DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofaa418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Opioid agonist treatment (OAT) supports adherence in medication regimens for other concurrent conditions. However, sparse evidence is available on its effect on promoting retention to direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) for people with opioid use disorder (PWOUD) with concurrent hepatitis C virus (HCV). Our objective was to determine the causal impact of OAT exposure on DAA adherence among HCV-positive PWOUD.
Methods
We executed a retrospective study using linked population-level data for British Columbia, Canada (January 1996–September 2018). We estimated the effect of OAT on DAA adherence using generalized estimating equations (GEEs) and marginal structural modeling (MSM) for time-varying confounding. The primary outcome was 85% DAA adherence (minimum 6 of 7 days).
Results
We included 2820 HCV-positive PWOUD who initiated a DAA regimen (32.6% female, 83.9% previously accessing OAT), with 2410 (95% among uncensored episodes) completing the regimen. The GEE-adjusted odds ratio of DAA adherence after OAT exposure was 1.05 (0.89–1.23), whereas the MSM-adjusted odds ratio was 0.97 (0.78–1.22).
Conclusions
In a setting with universal healthcare and widespread access to OAT and DAA treatment, DAA regimen completion rates were high regardless of OAT, and engagement in OAT did not increase DAA adherence. Nonengagement in OAT should not preclude DAA treatment for PWOUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong E Min
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Lindsay A Pearce
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada
- University of Melbourne, School of Population and Global Health, Victoria, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Naveed Z Janjua
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Lianping Ti
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Bohdan Nosyk
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, Canada
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High prevalence of Hepatitis C Virus infection among people who use crack cocaine in an important international drug trafficking route in Central-West Region Brazil. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2020; 85:104488. [PMID: 32745809 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2020.104488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
In this study, the prevalence rate, associated risk factors and genetic diversity of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection were determined among people who use crack from an international drug trafficking route in Central-West, Brazil. Blood samples were collected from 700 users of crack from Campo Grande and two border cities of Mato Grosso do Sul State and tested for HCV infection using serological and molecular testing methodologies. Anti-HCV was detected in 31/700 (4.5%, 95% CI: 2.9-6.0%) and HCV RNA in 26/31 (83.9%) of anti-HCV positive samples. Phylogenetic analysis of three HCV sub-genomic regions (5'UTR, NS5B and HVR-1) revealed the circulation of 1a (73.9%), 1b (8.7%) and 3a (17.4%) genotypes. Next-generation sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of intra-host viral populations of HCV HVR-1 showed a significant variation in intra-host genetic diversity among infected individuals, with 58.8% composed of more than one sub-population. Bayesian analysis estimated that the most recent common HCV ancestor for strains identified here was introduced to this region after 1975 following expansion of intravenous drug use in Brazil. Multivariate analyses showed that only 'ever having injected drugs' was independently associated with HCV infection. These results indicate an increasing spread of multiple HCV strains requiring public health intervention, such as harm reduction, testing services and treatment among crack users in this important border region of Central Brazil.
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Bradshaw D, Vasylyeva TI, Davis C, Pybus OG, Thézé J, Thomson EC, Martinello M, Matthews GV, Burholt R, Gilleece Y, Cooke GS, Page EE, Waters L, Nelson M. Transmission of hepatitis C virus in HIV-positive and PrEP-using MSM in England. J Viral Hepat 2020; 27:721-730. [PMID: 32115809 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Revised: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
We sought to characterize risk factors and patterns of HCV transmission amongst men who have sex with men (MSM). MSM with recently acquired HCV (AHCV) were prospectively recruited ('clinic cohort') between January and September 2017. Clinical data and risk behaviours were identified and blood obtained for HCV whole genome sequencing. Phylogenetic analyses were performed, using sequences from this cohort and two other AHCV cohorts, to identify transmission clusters. Sixteen (40.0%) men in the clinic cohort were HIV-negative MSM. HIV-negative MSM were younger than HIV-positive MSM; most (81.3%) had taken HIV PrEP in the preceding year. Eighteen men (45.0%) reported injection drug use; most (34, 85.0%) reported noninjection drug use in the last year. Most in both groups reported condomless anal sex, fisting and sex in a group environment. Few (7, 17.5%) men thought partners may have had HCV. There were 52 sequences in the HCV genotype 1a phylogeny, 18 from the clinic cohort and 34 from other AHCV cohorts; 47 (90.4%) clustered with ≥1 other sequence. There were 7 clusters of 2-27 sequences; 6 clusters contained HIV-negative and HIV-positive MSM and 1 cluster only HIV-positive MSM. Four of these clusters were part of larger clusters first described in 2007. PrEP-using MSM are at risk of HCV, sharing similar risk factors to HIV-positive MSM. Phylogenetics highlights that PrEP-using and HIV-positive MSM are involved in the same HCV transmission networks. Few men demonstrated HCV awareness and risk reduction strategies should be expanded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Bradshaw
- Department of HIV and Sexual Health, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Chris Davis
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Julien Thézé
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Emma C Thomson
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Gail V Matthews
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ruth Burholt
- Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust, Brighton, UK
| | - Yvonne Gilleece
- Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust, Brighton, UK
| | | | - Emma E Page
- Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Mark Nelson
- Department of HIV and Sexual Health, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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21
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Koh ACW, Oh SP, Lim SM, Yew SY, Chen J, Chow VYS. Forensic examination of plastic drinking straws based on their physical characteristics and manufacturing marks. Forensic Sci Res 2020; 5:64-73. [PMID: 32490312 PMCID: PMC7241487 DOI: 10.1080/20961790.2019.1595353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2018] [Revised: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
This work highlights the evidential value of examining plastic drinking straws to establish linkages between multiple sources for forensic intelligence, investigative or prosecution purposes. Plastic drinking straws are commonly encountered in drug cases, either as inhalational paraphernalia or as packaging material. However, to the best of our knowledge, systematic studies on the evidential value of straws have not previously been carried out. In this study, over 80 packets of clear and colourless straws-most of which were visually similar-were purchased from various commercial outlets in Singapore. Some physical characteristics (viz., polarizing patterns, thickness, circumference and mass per unit length) and the manufacturing marks of these straws were examined to assess their potentials for discriminating straws from different packets. Comparison of polarizing patterns yielded a discrimination of approximately 69%, while thickness, circumference, and mass per unit length measurements resulted in lower discriminations. Comparison microscopy of manufacturing marks was found to be the most discriminating among all techniques employed herein, with a discrimination of about 95%, even among straws with similar polarizing patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaric C W Koh
- Forensic Chemistry and Physics Laboratory, Health Sciences Authority, Singapore
| | - Suat Ping Oh
- Forensic Chemistry and Physics Laboratory, Health Sciences Authority, Singapore
| | - Shing Min Lim
- Forensic Chemistry and Physics Laboratory, Health Sciences Authority, Singapore
| | - Sok Yee Yew
- Forensic Chemistry and Physics Laboratory, Health Sciences Authority, Singapore
| | - Jean Chen
- Forensic Chemistry and Physics Laboratory, Health Sciences Authority, Singapore
| | - Vicky Y S Chow
- Forensic Chemistry and Physics Laboratory, Health Sciences Authority, Singapore
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22
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Clipman SJ, Duggal P, Srikrishnan AK, Saravanan S, Balakrishnan P, Vasudevan CK, Celentano DD, Thomas DL, Mehta SH, Solomon SS. Prevalence and Phylogenetic Characterization of Hepatitis C Virus Among Indian Men Who Have Sex With Men: Limited Evidence for Sexual Transmission. J Infect Dis 2020; 221:1875-1883. [PMID: 31917837 PMCID: PMC7213577 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiaa006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Data from high-income countries suggest increasing hepatitis C virus (HCV) prevalence/incidence among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected men who have sex with men (MSM), but limited data derive from low-and-middle-income countries. METHODS We recruited 4994 MSM from 5 states across India using respondent-driven sampling. Logistic regression incorporating respondent-driven sampling weights and machine learning feature selection were used to identify correlates of prevalent HCV, and Bayesian phylogenetic analysis was used to examine genetic clustering. RESULTS The median age was 25 years, the HIV prevalence was 7.2%, and 49.3% of participants reported recent unprotected anal intercourse. The HCV prevalence was 1.3% (95% confidence interval, 1.0%-1.6%; site range, 0.2%-3.4%) and was 3.1% in HIV-positive versus 1.1% among HIV-negative men. HCV infection was significantly associated with injection drug use (odds ratio, 177.1; 95% confidence interval, 72.7-431.5) and HIV infection (4.34; 1.88-10.05). Machine learning did not uncover any additional epidemiologic signal. Phylogenetic analysis revealed 3 clusters suggestive of linked transmission; each contained ≥1 individual reporting injection drug use. CONCLUSIONS We observed a low HCV prevalence in this large sample of MSM despite a high prevalence of known risk factors, reflecting either the need for a threshold of HCV for sexual transmission and/or variability in sexual practices across settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven J Clipman
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Priya Duggal
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - David D Celentano
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - David L Thomas
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Shruti H Mehta
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Sunil S Solomon
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- YR Gaitonde Centre for AIDS Research and Education, Chennai, India
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23
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Bundling Rapid Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Hepatitis C Virus Testing to Increase Receipt of Test Results: A Randomized Trial. Med Care 2020; 58:445-452. [PMID: 32040038 DOI: 10.1097/mlr.0000000000001311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The overlapping human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) epidemics disproportionately affect people with substance use disorders. However, many people who use substances remain unaware of their infection(s). OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to examine the efficacy of an on-site bundled rapid HIV and HCV testing strategy in increasing receipt of both HIV and HCV test results. RESEARCH DESIGN Two-armed randomized controlled trial in substance use disorder treatment programs (SUDTP) in New York City. Participants in the treatment arm were offered bundled rapid HIV and HCV tests with immediate results on-site. Participants in the control arm were offered the standard of care, that is, referrals to on-site or off-site laboratory-based HIV and HCV testing with delayed results. PARTICIPANTS A total of 162 clients with unknown or negative HIV and HCV status. MEASURES The primary outcome was the percentage of participants with self-reported receipt of HIV and HCV test results at 1-month postrandomization. RESULTS Over half of participants were Hispanic (51.2%), with 25.3% being non-Hispanic black and 17.9% non-Hispanic white. Two thirds were male, and 54.9% reported injection as method of drug use. One hundred thirty-four participants (82.7%) completed the 1-month assessment. Participants in the treatment arm were more likely to report having received both test results than those in the control arm (69% vs. 19%, P<0.001). Seven participants in the treatment arm received a preliminary new HCV diagnosis, versus 1 in the control arm (P=0.029). CONCLUSION Offering bundled rapid HIV and HCV testing with immediate results on-site in SUDTPs may increase awareness of HIV and HCV infection among people with substance use disorders.
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24
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Wang CW, Chuang HY, Chiang HC, Huang PC, Yu ML, Dai CY. Risk of hepatitis C virus infection in injecting and noninjecting drug users receiving opioid substitution therapy. J Chin Med Assoc 2020; 83:454-460. [PMID: 32358454 DOI: 10.1097/jcma.0000000000000312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the most common viral infection among illicit drug users in the world. Although intervention of needle and syringe program and opioid substitution therapy had engaged to prevent HCV infection, the prevalence of HCV infection does not seem to decline. The aim of this study was to estimate the risk of HCV infection in injecting drug users (IDUs) and noninjecting drug users (NIDUs) receiving opioid substitution therapy. METHODS We recruited 1179 heroin-dependent patients (age: 20-66 years) under opioid substitution therapy from 2012 to 2015 in a Psychiatric Center, Southern Taiwan. The data of HCV, hepatitis B virus and HIV infection and liver biochemical examination were obtained. We used multivariate logistic regression analysis to predict the risk of HCV infection. RESULTS There were 93.1% of IDUs and 68.1% of NIDUs positive for HCV infection. In IDUs, HIV infection, age of heroin initiation, duration and dose of heroin use, frequency of detoxification, and number of criminal conviction were significantly associated with HCV infection. In NIDUs, snort/sniff heroin exhibited a significantly increased risk of HCV infection. Intravenous injecting (odds ratio [OR] = 23.10, 95% CI = 8.04-66.40, p < 0.001), intravenous injecting combined snort/sniff (OR = 12.95, 95% CI = 3.90-42.97, p < 0.001), and snort/sniff (OR = 4.14, 95% CI = 1.30-13.18, p = 0.016) were significantly associated with increased risk of HCV infection compared with smoking. The trend was significant (p for trend <0.001). CONCLUSION In Taiwan, IDUs had harmful characteristics compared with NIDUs and both had extremely high prevalence of HCV infection. We provided evidence that snort/sniff is a possible way of leak in HCV infection despite needle-syringes supplement program been provided. Opioid substitution therapy program should include HCV assessment and treatment in the new direct-acting antiviral therapy era.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Wen Wang
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan, ROC
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Municipal Hsiao Kang Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC
- PhD Program in Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University and National Health Research Institutes, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Hung-Yi Chuang
- Department of Public Health, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Hung-Che Chiang
- College of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Po-Chin Huang
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli, Taiwan, ROC
- Research Center for Environmental Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Ming-Lung Yu
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC
- Department of Community Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Chia-Yen Dai
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC
- PhD Program in Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University and National Health Research Institutes, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC
- Department of Community Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, ROC
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, College of Biological Science and Technology, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan, ROC
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25
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Bartholomew TS, Tookes HE, Bullock C, Onugha J, Forrest DW, Feaster DJ. Examining risk behavior and syringe coverage among people who inject drugs accessing a syringe services program: A latent class analysis. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2020; 78:102716. [PMID: 32146348 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2020.102716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Injection drug use (IDU) remains a significant public health problem. IDU has been associated closely with the opioid crisis; driving overdose, HIV, and Hepatitis C (HCV) infection nationwide. Syringe services programs (SSPs) remain pivotal evidence-based interventions to reduce harm and engage subgroups of people who inject drugs (PWID). This study aims to provide policy considerations from the IDEA SSP, the first legal SSP in the state of Florida. METHODS We performed a latent class analysis on patterns of substance use among participants (N = 982) newly enrolled in a syringe services program (SSP). Associations between classes of substance use and sociodemographic variables, risky injection and sex behaviors, HIV/HCV status and syringe coverage were analyzed using the R3STEP and BCH 3-step procedures in latent class regression. RESULTS We found a three-class solution: Heroin-Dominant class (73.9%), Methamphetamine-Dominant class (9.5%) and Heroin/Cocaine class (16.6%). Compared to Heroin-Dominant class, the Heroin/Cocaine class were more likely to report homelessness, sharing works, unprotected sex, public injection, and to be HCV positive. Compared to both Heroin-Dominant and Heroin/Cocaine classes, the Methamphetamine-Dominant class were more likely to be male, Hispanic, gay or bisexual orientation, HIV positive, to report unprotected sex and sex with PWID. In addition, the lowest and highest syringe coverage were among those in the Heroin/Cocaine and Methamphetamine-Dominant classes, respectively. CONCLUSION Existing interventions among this population to mitigate infectious disease risk, such as SSPs, can be a used to engage differing PWID populations. However, multi-component, targeted preventive interventions and need-based syringe distribution policies are required to further reduce HIV and HCV risk among various PWID populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler S Bartholomew
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Hansel E Tookes
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Corinne Bullock
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Jason Onugha
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - David W Forrest
- Department of Anthropology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Daniel J Feaster
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
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26
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Van Baelen L, Plettinckx E, Antoine J, Gremeaux L. Prevalence of HCV among people who inject drugs in Brussels-a respondent-driven sampling survey. Harm Reduct J 2020; 17:11. [PMID: 32085742 PMCID: PMC7035658 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-020-00358-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In Belgium, people who inject drugs (PWID) are at a high risk of being infected by hepatitis C (HCV) as injecting drug use is the main mode for transmission of HCV in Europe. Estimates about the number of people living with HCV in Belgium are rare and even less is known about the prevalence of HCV among PWID. Method Between 1 February 2019 and 26 April 2019, PWID and high-risk opiate users (HROU) were recruited in Brussels through respondent-driven sampling (RDS). They were invited to a questionnaire and underwent a rapid HCV test. Results A total of 253 respondents participated in the study, of which 168 were PWID and 238 were HROU, with 153 respondents belonging to both categories. The overall unweighted sample average for HCV antibodies was 41.1%. The weighted population estimates were 43.7% (95% CI 30.6–56.8%) for RDS-II and 43.4% (95% CI 28.9–58.0%) for RDS-SS. Conclusions This prevalence is lower than the prevalence estimates reported elsewhere in Europe. However, the data still suggest that serious efforts are needed to reach the goal set by the WHO to reduce HCV by 2030 with 90%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luk Van Baelen
- Sciensano, Rue Juliette Wytsmanstraat, 14, 1050, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Els Plettinckx
- Sciensano, Rue Juliette Wytsmanstraat, 14, 1050, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jérôme Antoine
- Sciensano, Rue Juliette Wytsmanstraat, 14, 1050, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Lies Gremeaux
- Sciensano, Rue Juliette Wytsmanstraat, 14, 1050, Brussels, Belgium
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27
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Del-Rios NHA, de Araujo LA, Martins RMB, Guimarães RA, de Matos MAD, Caetano KAA, Pinheiro RS, da Silva França DD, da Silva LN, Teles SA, Dos Santos Carneiro MA. Molecular and epidemiological aspects of hepatitis C virus infection among crack cocaine users. J Med Virol 2019; 92:1239-1245. [PMID: 31746475 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.25632] [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: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The aim is to investigate the prevalence, risk factors, and hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotypes/subtypes among crack users in-treatment in Central Brazil. A cross-sectional survey in which 600 in-treatment crack users were interviewed and tested for anti-HCV Ab by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was conducted between August 2012 and April 2013. Anti-HCV-positive samples were also submitted for HCV RNA detection by polymerase chain reaction. Positive HCV RNA samples were genotyped by direct sequencing analysis of the NS5B region of the viral genome, followed by phylogenetic analysis. Of the total, 3.7% (95.0% CI, 2.4%-5.6%) were anti-HCV positive. Age over 40 years and history of injecting drugs were risk factors for HCV, while snorting cocaine was a protector variable. HCV RNA was detected in 14 of 22 anti-HCV-positive samples, and the genotypes 1 (n = 10) and 3 (n = 2), subtypes 1a (n = 7), 1b (n = 3), and 3a (n = 2) were identified. The HCV prevalence found among crack users is almost threefold that observed in the general population in Brazil supporting that this population is at higher risk for HCV. The findings of cocaine insufflation as a protective behavior for HCV infection in this population should be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Rafael Alves Guimarães
- Institute of Tropical Pathology and Public Health, Federal University of Goiás (UFG), Goiás, Brazil
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28
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Farrell M, Martin NK, Stockings E, Bórquez A, Cepeda JA, Degenhardt L, Ali R, Tran LT, Rehm J, Torrens M, Shoptaw S, McKetin R. Responding to global stimulant use: challenges and opportunities. Lancet 2019; 394:1652-1667. [PMID: 31668409 PMCID: PMC6924572 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(19)32230-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2018] [Revised: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
We did a global review to synthesise data on the prevalence, harms, and interventions for stimulant use, focusing specifically on the use of cocaine and amphetamines. Modelling estimated the effect of cocaine and amphetamine use on mortality, suicidality, and blood borne virus incidence. The estimated global prevalence of cocaine use was 0·4% and amphetamine use was 0·7%, with dependence affecting 16% of people who used cocaine and 11% of those who used amphetamine. Stimulant use was associated with elevated mortality, increased incidence of HIV and hepatitis C infection, poor mental health (suicidality, psychosis, depression, and violence), and increased risk of cardiovascular events. No effective pharmacotherapies are available that reduce stimulant use, and the available psychosocial interventions (except for contingency management) had a weak overall effect. Generic approaches can address mental health and blood borne virus infection risk if better tailored to mitigate the harms associated with stimulant use. Substantial and sustained investment is needed to develop more effective interventions to reduce stimulant use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Farrell
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Natasha K Martin
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA; Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Emily Stockings
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Annick Bórquez
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA; Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Javier A Cepeda
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Louisa Degenhardt
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Robert Ali
- Discipline of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Lucy Thi Tran
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jürgen Rehm
- Institute Mental Health Policy Research & Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada; Epidemiological Research Unit, Technische Universität Dresden, Klinische Psychologie & Psychotherapie, Dresden, Germany; Department of International Health Projects, Institute for Leadership and Health Management, IM Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Marta Torrens
- Addiction Research Group, IMIM-Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Institut de Neuropsiquiatria i Addiccions, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Steve Shoptaw
- Department of Family Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Rebecca McKetin
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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29
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Marín-Navarrete R, Magis-Rodríguez C, Villalobos-Gallegos L, Villafuerte-García A, Pérez-López A, Ruiz-Herrera K, Sánchez-Domínguez R, Ponce-Ramos M, Morales-Carcaño A, Bravo-García E, Uribe Zúñiga P, Medina-Mora ME. Development of an evidence-based model of rapid testing, counseling and referral patients with HIV, HVC and other STDs in Mexican addiction treatment centers. SALUD MENTAL 2019. [DOI: 10.17711/sm.0185-3325.2019.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Introduction. Efforts to identify new cases of HIV, HVC and other STIs, through the application of quick tests, focus on people who inject drugs, without taking into account the fact that the use of alcohol and other drugs of abuse inhibits decision making, increasing the transmission of STIs through risky sexual practices. Accordingly, it is necessary to have detection algorithms that consider people who use multiple drugs to improve the identification of new cases and their subsequent linkage with health services. Objective. This paper describes the development process of the OPB-APR model for the detection, counseling and referral of people with HIV and other STIs at addiction treatment centers. Method. The procedure is divided into three phases: 1. A literature review to identify the basic concepts of HIV and other STIs, substance use, risky sexual behaviors, quick tests, and specialized psychological counseling; 2. A feasibility study in which a health professional is trained to implement the OPB-APR model; 3. Drafting of the final version. Results. The final version of the OPB-APR model was obtained, which describes standardized procedures for detection, counseling and referral to health services. Discussion and conclusions. The OPB-APR model aims to strengthen the public health system by increasing the coverage of services for the detection of HIV, HCV and other STIs. The above through the implementation of standardized procedures among specialized and non-specialized health professionals of addiction care centers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Karen Ruiz-Herrera
- Centro Nacional para la Prevención y el Control del VIH y el Sida, Mexico
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30
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Oliveira-Filho AB, Santos FJA, Silva FQ, Raiol NC, Costa CCS, Piauiense JNF, Martins LC, Cardoso YMN, Di Miceli JFF, Resque RL, Silva-Oliveira GC, Pinheiro LML, Machado LFA, Pinho JRR, Lemos JAR, Kupek E, Fischer B. Hepatitis C virus infection status and associated factors among a multi-site sample of people who used illicit drugs in the Amazon region. BMC Infect Dis 2019; 19:634. [PMID: 31315569 PMCID: PMC6637600 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-019-4270-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Elevated rates of Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection have been reported in epidemiological studies with people who used illicit drugs (PWUIDs) in different Brazilian regions. In Brazil's Amazon region, studies have already identified the common use of illicit drugs among adolescents and the high prevalence of HCV infections among PWUIDs. However, all studies done with PWUIDs were conducted with small samples and within limited geographic coverage. This study determined the prevalence and risk factors for HCV infection in PWUIDs in the Amazon region, northern Brazil, as well as estimating the prevalence and factors associated with the HCV spontaneous clearance (HSC). METHODS This cross-sectional study accessed 1666 PWUIDs from multiple municipalities of the Amazon region. Socio-demographic, economic, drug use and health-related information were collected through interviews. Blood samples collected were tested for the presence of anti-HCV antibodies and RNA-HCV. HCV genotypes were identified by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Logistic regressions were run to identify factors independently associated with HCV infection status and HSC. RESULTS In total, 577 (34.6%) featured HCV antibodies, of which 384 (23.1%) had active HCV infection and 193 (11.6%) indicated HSC. Genotypes 1 (80.2%) and 3 (18.8%) were detected. HCV infection status was associated with the length of illicit drug use history, factors related to parenteral and sexual transmission, and factors of socio-economic marginalization leading to potential risk activities for HCV. HSC was associated with the ethnic (including indigenous) background of participants. CONCLUSIONS High levels of HCV infection were detected in PWUIDs. Genotype 1 was predominant. Intense use of illicit drugs, unprotected sexual intercourse, high number of sexual partners and social marginalization were associated with all HCV infection. HSC was associated with origin (Amazonian-born) and non-white (e.g., Black or Indigenous) of PWUIDs. These findings emphasize the need for improve HCV prevention and control services and care for PWUIDs in the Brazilian Amazon region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldemir B. Oliveira-Filho
- Laboratório de Células e Patógenos, Grupo de Estudo e Pesquisa em Populações Vulneráveis (GEPPOV), Instituto de Estudos Costeiros, Campus de Bragança, Universidade Federal do Pará, Alameda Leandro Ribeiro, s/n. Aldeia, Bragança, PA Brazil
| | - Francisco Junior A. Santos
- Laboratório de Células e Patógenos, Grupo de Estudo e Pesquisa em Populações Vulneráveis (GEPPOV), Instituto de Estudos Costeiros, Campus de Bragança, Universidade Federal do Pará, Alameda Leandro Ribeiro, s/n. Aldeia, Bragança, PA Brazil
| | - Fabricio Quaresma Silva
- Laboratório de Células e Patógenos, Grupo de Estudo e Pesquisa em Populações Vulneráveis (GEPPOV), Instituto de Estudos Costeiros, Campus de Bragança, Universidade Federal do Pará, Alameda Leandro Ribeiro, s/n. Aldeia, Bragança, PA Brazil
| | - Nairis Costa Raiol
- Laboratório de Células e Patógenos, Grupo de Estudo e Pesquisa em Populações Vulneráveis (GEPPOV), Instituto de Estudos Costeiros, Campus de Bragança, Universidade Federal do Pará, Alameda Leandro Ribeiro, s/n. Aldeia, Bragança, PA Brazil
| | - Camila Carla S. Costa
- Laboratório de Células e Patógenos, Grupo de Estudo e Pesquisa em Populações Vulneráveis (GEPPOV), Instituto de Estudos Costeiros, Campus de Bragança, Universidade Federal do Pará, Alameda Leandro Ribeiro, s/n. Aldeia, Bragança, PA Brazil
- Laboratório de Patologia Clínica de Doenças Tropicais, Núcleo de Medicina Tropical, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, PA Brazil
| | - Juliana Nadia F. Piauiense
- Laboratório de Células e Patógenos, Grupo de Estudo e Pesquisa em Populações Vulneráveis (GEPPOV), Instituto de Estudos Costeiros, Campus de Bragança, Universidade Federal do Pará, Alameda Leandro Ribeiro, s/n. Aldeia, Bragança, PA Brazil
- Laboratório de Patologia Clínica de Doenças Tropicais, Núcleo de Medicina Tropical, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, PA Brazil
| | - Luisa Caricio Martins
- Laboratório de Patologia Clínica de Doenças Tropicais, Núcleo de Medicina Tropical, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, PA Brazil
| | - Yasmin Maria N. Cardoso
- Laboratório de Toxicologia e Química Farmacêutica, Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Amapá, Macapá, AP Brazil
| | - Jeruza Ferraz F. Di Miceli
- Laboratório de Toxicologia e Química Farmacêutica, Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Amapá, Macapá, AP Brazil
| | - Rafael Lima Resque
- Laboratório de Toxicologia e Química Farmacêutica, Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Amapá, Macapá, AP Brazil
| | - Gláucia C. Silva-Oliveira
- Laboratório de Células e Patógenos, Grupo de Estudo e Pesquisa em Populações Vulneráveis (GEPPOV), Instituto de Estudos Costeiros, Campus de Bragança, Universidade Federal do Pará, Alameda Leandro Ribeiro, s/n. Aldeia, Bragança, PA Brazil
| | - Luiz Marcelo L. Pinheiro
- Faculdade de Ciências Biológicas, Campus do Marajó – Soure, Universidade Federal do Pará, Soure, PA Brazil
| | - Luiz Fernando A. Machado
- Laboratório de Virologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, PA Brazil
| | - João Renato R. Pinho
- Laboratório de Gastroenterologia e Hepatologia, Instituto de Medicina Tropical, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP Brazil
| | - José Alexandre R. Lemos
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Profissional em Análises Clínicas, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém, PA Brazil
| | - Emil Kupek
- Departamento de Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC Brazil
| | - Benedikt Fischer
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Grafton, AK New Zealand
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Altuğlu I, Tanyeri S, Zeytinoğlu A, Altintoprak AE. HBsAg, Anti-HCV and Anti-HIV Seroprevalance Among Drug Users: a Retrospective Assessment. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 56:186-190. [PMID: 31523144 DOI: 10.29399/npa.23505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2018] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Drug abuse and co-occurring infections are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. In regions with high rates of drug usage, infections like hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are highly prevalent. Epidemiological studies on HBV, HCV and HIV infections among users of illicit drugs are scarce in Turkey. The primary aim of this cross-sectional and retrospective study was to determine the hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), anti-HCV antibody (anti-HCV) and anti-HIV antibody (anti-HIV) seroprevalences in drug users who applied to a psychiatric outpatient clinic of drug addiction of a university hospital. Secondarily, the assessment of HBsAg, anti-HCV and anti-HIV parameters among intravenous drug users was aimed. Methods Serum samples of all patients on probation who applied to a psychiatric outpatient clinic of drug addiction of a university hospital between 2013-2017 and sent to the department of medical microbiology for routine serologic testing were included in the study. The serologic results were obtained retrospectively from laboratory records. For the statistical analysis of the data IBM SPSS 20.0 program was used. Results Among the studied individuals, the ELISA results demonstrated the existence of HBsAg, anti-HCV and anti-HIV in 94 out of 4357 patients (2.2%), 27 out of 4451 patients (0.6%) and 10 (0.2%) out of 4464 patients, respectively. According to the records, 17 of the patients reported intravenous drug usage. Among this patient group, three patients were found to be anti-HCV positive and one patient was found to be anti-HIV positive. Conclusion In our study, the prevalence of HCV and HIV was increased in patients with intravenous drug usage, whereas in non-intravenous drug users the prevalence is similar to the normal population. In order to plan prevention and harm reduction services for this high-risk population, more national data is needed on HBV, HCV and HIV rates among this group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imre Altuğlu
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Ege University Faculty of Medicine, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Selin Tanyeri
- Department of Mental Health and Diseases, Ege University Faculty of Medicine, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Ayşın Zeytinoğlu
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Ege University Faculty of Medicine, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Ayşe Ender Altintoprak
- Department of Mental Health and Diseases, Ege University Faculty of Medicine, İzmir, Turkey
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Maddipatla D, Janabi F, Narakathu BB, Ali S, Turkani VS, Bazuin BJ, Fleming PD, Atashbar MZ. Development of a novel wrinkle-structure based SERS substrate for drug detection applications. SENSING AND BIO-SENSING RESEARCH 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sbsr.2019.100281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
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Socías ME, Karamouzian M, Parent S, Barletta J, Bird K, Ti L. Integrated models of care for people who inject drugs and live with hepatitis C virus: A systematic review. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2019; 72:146-159. [PMID: 31147142 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2019.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Revised: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the key role that people who inject drugs (PWID) play in the hepatitis C virus (HCV) epidemic, HCV treatment rates among this population have been historically low. Integrated models of HCV and substance use care have the potential to overcome some barriers to access; however, the evidence base is uncertain. This systematic review assesses the impacts of integrated HCV and substance use services on engagement in HCV care among PWID. METHODS We searched five databases up to December 2018 to identify original quantitative studies evaluating the impacts of co-location of HCV and substance use services on engagement in the HCV cascade of care among adult PWID. We conducted a narrative synthesis, categorizing models based on patient entry point (a: HCV facility, b: substance use disorder (SUD) facility, and c: other facilities), and levels of integrated services offered (a: HCV/substance use testing only, b: HCV/substance use treatment, and c: testing/treatment + other services). RESULTS A total of 46 articles corresponding to 44 original studies were included. Almost all studies (n = 42) were conducted in high-income countries and only six studies in the Direct-Acting Antiviral (DAA) era. Twenty-six studies discussed the integration of services at SUD facilities, one at HCV facilities, and seventeen at other facilities. Analysis of included studies indicated that overall integrated care resulted in improved engagement in HCV care (e.g., testing, treatment uptake and cure). However, the quality of evidence was predominantly low to moderate. CONCLUSIONS Available evidence suggests that integration of HCV and substance use services may improve engagement along the continuum of HCV care among PWID. Given limitations in data quality, and very few studies conducted in the DAA era and in low- and middle-income settings, further research is urgently needed to inform strategies to optimize HCV care access and outcomes among PWID globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Eugenia Socías
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2A9, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada.
| | - Mohammad Karamouzian
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2A9, Canada; HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, 7616911320, Iran
| | - Stephanie Parent
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - José Barletta
- Infectious Diseases Division, Hospital Juan A. Fernández, Cerviño 3356, Buenos Aires, C1425AGP, Argentina
| | - Kathleen Bird
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2A9, Canada
| | - Lianping Ti
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2A9, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul's Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6, Canada
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Coutinho C, Bastos LS, da Mota JC, Toledo L, Costa K, Bertoni N, Bastos FI. The risks of HCV infection among Brazilian crack cocaine users: incorporating diagnostic test uncertainty. Sci Rep 2019; 9:443. [PMID: 30679480 PMCID: PMC6346030 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-35657-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the initiative by WHO and other international organizations to eliminate HCV in the medium term, hepatitis C infection is still a major public health problem. Even non-injecting drugs users who engage in harmful or addictive drug use are at greater risk of acquiring the infection, when compared to the general population. This study evaluate risk factors for HCV infection in users of crack/cocaine in Brazil, using multilevel models that incorporate variations in the sensitivity and specificity of the respective diagnostic tests. The sample included all the participants of a national survey on street crack cocaine users with serologically reactive result in the rapid test for the HCV as well as 4 non-reactive controls, matched by sex, age category, and major geographic region of residence. Multilevel logistic regression models were used, with and without incorporation of the diagnostic test’s sensitivity and specificity values. The odds of HCV infection were 85% higher among polydrug users, 7.81 times higher among injecting drug users, and 3.69 times higher in those reporting to have genital ulcers. Statistical modeling strategies that incorporate the sensitivity and specificity of diagnostic tests in challenging settings are useful for studying the association between risk factors and infection status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Coutinho
- Institute of Scientific and Technological Communication and Information in Health (ICICT), FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. .,Program of Epidemiology in Public Health, Sergio Arouca National School of Public Health (ENSP), FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | | | - Jurema Corrêa da Mota
- Institute of Scientific and Technological Communication and Information in Health (ICICT), FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Lidiane Toledo
- Institute of Scientific and Technological Communication and Information in Health (ICICT), FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Katia Costa
- Institute of Scientific and Technological Communication and Information in Health (ICICT), FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Neilane Bertoni
- Division of Epidemiology, National Cancer Institute (INCa), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Francisco I Bastos
- Institute of Scientific and Technological Communication and Information in Health (ICICT), FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Chossegros P, Di Nino F. Associating conditional cash transfer to universal access to treatment could be the solution to the HCV epidemic among drug users (DUs). Harm Reduct J 2018; 15:63. [PMID: 30541570 PMCID: PMC6292040 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-018-0264-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2017] [Accepted: 03/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To understand the limits of HCV screening programs to reach all drug users (DUs). Method The association of the recruitment of a representative sample of a population of DUs in a specific area with the use of a questionnaire that included 250 items allowed the use of uni- and multifactorial analysis to explore the relationship between HCV screening and dimensions until now restricted to qualitative studies. Results We recruited, in less than 2 months, 327 DUs representing about 6% of the total population of DUs. They belonged to a single community whose drug use was the only common characteristic. While almost all DUs (92.6%) who had access to care providers had been screened, this proportion was much lower in out-of-care settings (64%). HCV prevalence among those who had performed a test was low (22.8%). For DUs, the life experience of hepatitis C has not changed in the last 10 years. Screening, studied for the first time according to this life experience, was not influenced by a rational knowledge of the risk taken or the knowledge of treatment efficacy, showing a gap between DUs’ representations and medical recommendations which explains the low level of active screening. Police crackdown on injections, disrupting the previous illusion of safe practices, was the only prior history leading to active screenings. Screenings were related to an access to care providers. GPs held a preponderant position as a source of information and care by being able to give appropriate answers regarding hepatitis C and prescribing opioid substitution treatments (OST). If 48 % of DUs screened positive for HCV had been treated, half of them had been prescribed before 2006. Conclusion While hepatitis has become a major issue for society and, consequently, for services for DUs (SDUs) and GPs, it is not the case for DUs. A widespread screening, even in a city where the offer of care is diversified and free, seems unlikely to reach a universal HCV screening over a short time. The model of respondent-driven sampling recruitment could be a new approach to conditional cash transfer, recruiting and treating DUs who remain outside the reach of care providers, a prerequisite for the universal access to HCV treatments to impact the HCV epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Chossegros
- UHSI de Lyon, Centre Hospitalier Lyon SUD, Hospices Civils de LYON, Chemin du Grand Revoyet, 69495, Pierre-Bénite, France.
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Liu CR, Li X, Chan PL, Zhuang H, Jia JD, Wang X, Lo YR, Walsh N. Prevalence of hepatitis C virus infection among key populations in China: A systematic review. Int J Infect Dis 2018; 80:16-27. [PMID: 30529371 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2018.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2018] [Revised: 11/04/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Chronic hepatitis C is a major global health challenge. China has the world's largest burden of hepatitis C and related liver disease, with several groups having an increased risk of acquiring hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. We undertook a systematic review in Chinese and English literature to determine the seroprevalence of anti-HCV among men who have sex with men (MSM), sex workers, people who use drugs (PWUD) and migrant workers in China. METHODS We searched three Chinese databases (CNKI, Wanfang and Chongqing VIP Information) and four English databases (Pubmed, EMBASE, Global Health and CINAHL) for studies published between 2010 and 2015. Included were 89 studies for MSM, 112 for sex workers, 11 for migrant workers, 94 for people who inject drugs (PWID) and 67 for non-injectors. Random-effect models pooled estimates of anti-HCV seroprevalence in each population and a meta-regression model examined the relationship between anti-HCV seroprevalence and injecting drug use. RESULTS The overall pooled seroprevalence of anti-HCV among MSM was 0.67% (CI 95 0.51-0.86); for sex workers 0.65% (CI 95 0.53-0.77); for migrant workers 0.48 (CI 95 0.20-0.85); for IDUs 72.41% (CI 95 68.71-75.97); among non-injectors 25.07% (CI 95 21.51%-28.80%). Our meta-regression model predicted that the seroprevalence of anti-HCV among PWID increased by 8.6% for each 10% increase seroprevalence of reporting ever having injected drugs. CONCLUSIONS Overall, seroprevalence of HCV infection is high among PWUD, especially those who inject. Lower HCV seroprevalence (<1%) was found among MSM, sex workers and migrant workers. Our estimates for IDU seroprevalence are higher than that from the national surveillance system, though estimates for other at-risk populations are similar.
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Affiliation(s)
- Che-Rung Liu
- Division of Communicable Diseases, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Western Pacific, Philippines
| | - Xi Li
- Division of Communicable Diseases, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Western Pacific, Philippines
| | - Po-Lin Chan
- Division of Communicable Diseases, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Western Pacific, Philippines
| | - Hui Zhuang
- Department of Microbiology, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Ji-Dong Jia
- Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medial University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaochun Wang
- Department of Hepatitis C and STD Prevention and Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Ying-Ru Lo
- Division of Communicable Diseases, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Western Pacific, Philippines
| | - Nick Walsh
- Division of Communicable Diseases, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Western Pacific, Philippines.
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George N, Harrell SM, Rhodes KD, Duarte-Rojo A. Recreational Drug and Psychosocial Profile in Chronic Hepatitis C Patients Seeking Antiviral Therapy. Ann Hepatol 2018; 17:76-84. [PMID: 29311404 DOI: 10.5604/01.3001.0010.7537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Practitioners treating hepatitis C (HCV) provide healthcare to a special population with high rates of substance abuse and psychiatric disorders. We investigated the psychosocial profile in HCV patients and tested what variables affect commencement of antiviral therapy. MATERIAL AND METHODS Recreational drug use (RDU), marijuana (THC), alcohol use, and psychiatric history were initially investigated with a questionnaire prior to history and physical. Following an educational intervention, we reinterrogated patients for RDU and THC use, and revision of initial statement was documented. Variables affecting commencement of antiviral therapy were analysed with logistic regression. RESULTS Out of 153 patients, 140 (92%) answered the questionnaire. Intervention increased total yield by 6%, however, 39% (11/28) of those initially denying use revised their statement. Drug screening identified 9 more patients with RDU/THC use. Half of patients consuming alcohol were heavy drinkers, and psychiatric disease was identified in 54%. Only 73 (48%) of 139 patients eligible for antivirals received treatment. Multivariable analysis revealed that younger patients (OR = 1.04, 95% CI 1.01-1.08), and those testing positive on drug screen (OR = 0.41, 95% CI 0.19-0.92) were less likely to be treated. Denial by insurance and loss to follow-up were the most common reasons for not starting antiviral treatment. CONCLUSION Substance abuse is highly prevalent among HCV patients, and it is difficult to tell prior from current users. Integral care of HCV patients should include a diligent screen for substance abuse and rehabilitation referral, aiming to increase the pool of patients eligible for antiviral therapy. This can only be achieved through a multidisciplinary approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayana George
- Department of Internal Medicine. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences; Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Sherrie M Harrell
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences; Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Kimberly D Rhodes
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences; Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Andres Duarte-Rojo
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences; Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
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Schuch-Goi SB, Scherer JN, Kessler FHP, Sordi AO, Pechansky F, von Diemen L. Hepatitis C: clinical and biological features related to different forms of cocaine use. TRENDS IN PSYCHIATRY AND PSYCHOTHERAPY 2018; 39:285-292. [PMID: 29267513 DOI: 10.1590/2237-6089-2016-0076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2016] [Accepted: 07/03/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is related with several liver diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinomas, leading to more than 0.5 million deaths every year and to a great global burden. It is known that injection drug users show a high prevalence of HCV infection, being considered a risk group for this disease. Cocaine users seem to be in greater risk than other drug users, and several hypotheses for this association are being studied. AIM To review data on HCV infection in cocaine users, taking into consideration the relevance of the different routes of drug administration and other risk behaviors. METHODS This was a narrative review performed in the main scientific databases. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION Data suggest that cocaine use could be associated with HCV infection due to the specificities of cocaine consumption pattern, even in those subjects who do not inject drugs, in addition to other risky behaviors, such as tattooing and unprotected sex. Injectable cocaine users seem to be more susceptible to contamination than users who do not inject drugs. However, evidence is pointing to the possibility of infection by sharing drug paraphernalia other than syringes. Moreover, specific immune system impairments caused by cocaine use are also being linked with HCV infection susceptibility, persistence and increased pathological effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Bassani Schuch-Goi
- Centro de Pesquisas em Álcool e Drogas, Centro Colaborador em Álcool e Drogas HCPA/SENAD, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Juliana Nichterwitz Scherer
- Centro de Pesquisas em Álcool e Drogas, Centro Colaborador em Álcool e Drogas HCPA/SENAD, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Felix Henrique Paim Kessler
- Centro de Pesquisas em Álcool e Drogas, Centro Colaborador em Álcool e Drogas HCPA/SENAD, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Anne Orgler Sordi
- Centro de Pesquisas em Álcool e Drogas, Centro Colaborador em Álcool e Drogas HCPA/SENAD, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Flavio Pechansky
- Centro de Pesquisas em Álcool e Drogas, Centro Colaborador em Álcool e Drogas HCPA/SENAD, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Lisia von Diemen
- Centro de Pesquisas em Álcool e Drogas, Centro Colaborador em Álcool e Drogas HCPA/SENAD, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
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Ti L, Parent S, Socías ME. Integrated Models of Care for People Living with Hepatitis C Virus and a Substance Use Disorder: Protocol for a Systematic Review. JMIR Res Protoc 2018; 7:e122. [PMID: 29743153 PMCID: PMC5966653 DOI: 10.2196/resprot.9532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2017] [Revised: 03/02/2018] [Accepted: 03/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background People living with a substance use disorder (SUD) are a key population within the hepatitis C virus (HCV) epidemic. While integrated and community-based models of care have shown positive outcomes among this population, the literature has been primarily focused on the HIV context. This paper outlines a systematic review protocol on the impact of various integrated models of care, which includes HCV and SUD services, on various treatment, and health-related outcomes among this population. Objective The objective of this review is to determine the impact of integrated models of care on HCV and addiction treatment and health-related outcomes for adults living with HCV and an SUD. Methods We will search 5 databases, article reference lists, and abstracts from relevant conferences that investigate the impact of integrated models of care on treatment and health-related outcomes among people living with HCV and an SUD. Database searches will be conducted and titles, abstracts, and the full-text of the relevant studies will be independently reviewed in separate stages. The methodological quality of included studies will be assessed using a validated tool. Data from included articles will be extracted using a standardized form and synthesized in a narrative account. Results For this project, we have received funding from the Canadian Institute of Health Research. To date, we have completed the search strategy, reviewed the titles, abstracts, and full-texts. Grading the selected studies and qualitative synthesis of the results are currently under way, and we expect the final results to be submitted for publication in the fall of 2018. Conclusions The systematic review will describe different integrated models of care that could be effective in improving the health and well-being of people living with HCV and an SUD. Results of this review could also identify quality improvement strategies to minimize the health and cost burden imposed on patients, healthcare professionals, and the healthcare system. Trial Registration PROSPERO CRD42017078445; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=78445 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6z4YnkE9G)
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Affiliation(s)
- Lianping Ti
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Stephanie Parent
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - María Eugenia Socías
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,British Columbia Centre for Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Hepatitis C Infection Among HIV-Positive Injection Drug Users and Non-Injection-Drug Users in Tajikistan. HEPATITIS MONTHLY 2018. [DOI: 10.5812/hepatmon.64860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
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Tennant E, Vollmer-Conna U, Demirkol A, Post JJ. Determining the factors associated with blood-borne virus testing of substance misusers presenting to hospital. Intern Med J 2018; 47:907-914. [PMID: 28560729 DOI: 10.1111/imj.13497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2017] [Revised: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diagnosing blood-borne virus (BBV) infection is an essential first step in eliminating transmission and securing access to treatment amongst substance misusers. AIMS To determine the proportion of substance misusers presenting to hospital who undergo BBV testing and the factors influencing testing. METHODS A retrospective cross-sectional study was performed of patients presenting to two Sydney teaching hospitals with substance misuse diagnoses between January and April 2015. Proportions tested for human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis C and hepatitis B previously and during the index hospitalisation presentation were examined. Multivariable analysis was performed to determine factors associated with testing. RESULTS Of 239 patients, 47 (19.7%) had a documented BBV at baseline. Of those with unknown BBV status, 29 (12.8%) had undergone some attempt at testing during presentation; 3.1% had their hepatitis B immunity assessed. Factors associated with an increased likelihood of testing during presentation included documented injecting drug use (odds ratio (OR) 15.14; 95% confidence interval (CI) 4.21-54.50; P < 0.001), admission under a physician (OR 11.79; 95% CI 2.82-49.40; P = 0.001) and admission on a Friday (OR 4.46; 95% CI 1.28-15.48; P = 0.02). Patients who had had more than one previous admission in the preceding 6 months (OR 0.24; 95% CI 0.078-0.73; P = 0.01) or a length of stay of 1 day or less (OR 0.17; 95% CI 0.032-0.87; P = 0.033) were less likely to be tested. CONCLUSION Despite the high baseline prevalence of BBV infections in the population, there were many missed opportunities for BBV testing. We found patient-, admission- and clinician-level barriers that could be addressed to enhance BBV testing uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine Tennant
- Healthy Homes and Neighbourhoods Team, Community Health, Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Infectious Diseases Department, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of NSW, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ute Vollmer-Conna
- School of Psychiatry, University of NSW, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Apo Demirkol
- Department of Addiction Medicine, South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of NSW, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jeffrey J Post
- Infectious Diseases Department, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of NSW, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Fill MA, Sizemore LA, Rickles M, Cooper KC, Buecker CM, Mullins HL, Hofmeister MG, Abara WE, Foster MA, Asher AK, Schaffner W, Dunn JR, Jones TF, Wester C. Epidemiology and risk factors for hepatitis C virus infection in a high-prevalence population. Epidemiol Infect 2018; 146:508-514. [PMID: 29429421 PMCID: PMC9134524 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268818000080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2017] [Revised: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 01/04/2018] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
To understand increasing rates of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in Tennessee, we conducted testing, risk factor analysis and a nested case-control study among persons who use drugs. During June-October 2016, HCV testing with risk factor assessment was conducted in sexually transmitted disease clinics, family planning clinics and an addiction treatment facility in eastern Tennessee; data were analysed by using multivariable logistic regression. A nested case-control study was conducted to assess drug-using risks and behaviours among persons who reported intranasal or injection drug use (IDU). Of 4753 persons tested, 397 (8.4%) were HCV-antibody positive. HCV infection was significantly associated with a history of both intranasal and IDU (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 35.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) 24.1-51.9), IDU alone (aOR 52.7, CI 25.3-109.9), intranasal drug use alone (aOR 2.6, CI 1.8-3.9) and incarceration (aOR 2.7, CI 2.0-3.8). By 4 October 2016, 574 persons with a reported history of drug use; 63 (11%) were interviewed further. Of 31 persons who used both intranasal and injection drugs, 26 (84%) reported previous intranasal drug use, occurring 1-18 years (median 5.5 years) before their first IDU. Our findings provide evidence that reported IDU, intranasal drug use and incarceration are independent indicators of risk for past or present HCV infection in the study population.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. A. Fill
- Epidemic Intelligence Service, Division of Scientific Education and Professional Development Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Tennessee Department of Health, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Department of Health Policy, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - L. A. Sizemore
- Tennessee Department of Health, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - M. Rickles
- Tennessee Department of Health, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - K. C. Cooper
- Knox County Health Department, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - C. M. Buecker
- Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Department, Chattanooga, Tennessee, USA
| | - H. L. Mullins
- Sullivan County Regional Health Department, Kingsport, Tennessee, USA
| | - M. G. Hofmeister
- Epidemic Intelligence Service, Division of Scientific Education and Professional Development Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - W. E. Abara
- Epidemic Intelligence Service, Division of Scientific Education and Professional Development Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - M. A. Foster
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - A. K. Asher
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - W. Schaffner
- Department of Health Policy, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - J. R. Dunn
- Tennessee Department of Health, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Department of Health Policy, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - T. F. Jones
- Tennessee Department of Health, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Department of Health Policy, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - C. Wester
- Tennessee Department of Health, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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Abstract
So far, only three small outdated studies have investigated hepatitis C virus (HCV) incidence and risk factors among illicit drug users (DUs) in Italy. Thus, during 2007-2010, we conducted a prospective cohort study among DUs attending 17 Italian rehabilitation centers serving urban areas. Two hundred eighty-four HCV-uninfected DUs were prospectively followed by interview and anti-HCV antibody and RNA testing every 6 months. Incidence was calculated using the person-years method. Infection predictors were assessed by time-dependent Cox analysis. Participants were mostly male (83.4%), under opioid substitution therapy (OST) (78.9%), non-injecting DUs (67.9%), and with a mean age of 30.8. Ninety-one of 224 DUs initially under OST interrupted treatment during the follow-up. Overall HCV incidence was 5.83/100 person-years at risk (PYAR) [95% confidence intervals (CI), 3.63-9.38]. The incidence did not significantly differ according the participants' sociodemographic characteristics or the degree of urbanization of the towns involved in the study. The incidence was higher for DUs under than for those not under OST (6.23 vs 4.50/100 PYAR; p = 0.681). Incidence was also higher for those with than for those without OST interruption (7.17 vs 5.04/100 PYAR; p = 0.55). However, all these differences were non-significant. At last follow-up visit, a significant decrease in frequency of sharing equipment for preparation/using drugs (by injection or not) was observed by analyzing either the whole cohort or DUs under OST only. Anti-HCV seroconversion resulted independently associated with sharing drug preparation/use equipment, backloading, having a HCV-positive sexual partner, or household and (marginally) intravenous injection. In this study, HCV incidence was non-negligible and OST seemed to lack effectiveness in reducing it. In Italy, implementation of combined harm reduction interventions and antiviral treatment of chronically infected DUs would be needed.
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Angulo-Arreola IA, Bastos FI, Strathdee SA. Substance Abuse and HIV/AIDS in the Caribbean. J Int Assoc Provid AIDS Care 2017; 16:56-74. [PMID: 21852689 DOI: 10.1177/1545109711417408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The Caribbean and Central America represent a formidable challenge for researchers and policy makers in the HIV field, due to their pronounced heterogeneity in terms of social, economic, and cultural contexts and the different courses the HIV epidemic has followed in the region. Such contrasting contexts and epidemics can be exemplified by 2 countries that share the island of Hispaniola, the French Creole-speaking Haiti, and the Spanish-speaking Dominican Republic. Haiti has experienced the worst epidemics outside of sub-Saharan Africa. Following a protracted economic and social crisis, recently aggravated by a devastating earthquake, the local HIV epidemic could experience resurgence. The region, strategically located on the way between coca-producing countries and the profitable North American markets, has been a transshipment area for years. Notwithstanding, the impact of such routes on local drug scenes has been very heterogeneous and dynamic, depending on a combination of local mores, drug enforcement activities, and the broad social and political context. Injecting drug use remains rare in the region, but local drug scenes are dynamic under the influence of increasing mobility of people and goods to and from North and South America, growing tourism and commerce, and prostitution. The multiple impacts of the recent economic and social crisis, as well as the influence of drug-trafficking routes across the Caribbean and other Latin American countries require a sustained effort to track changes in the HIV risk environment to inform sound drug policies and initiatives to minimize drug-related harms in the region.
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Health outcomes associated with crack-cocaine use: Systematic review and meta-analyses. Drug Alcohol Depend 2017; 180:401-416. [PMID: 28982092 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2017.08.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2017] [Revised: 08/29/2017] [Accepted: 08/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Crack-cocaine use is prevalent largely in socio-economically marginalized populations in the Americas. Its use has been associated with diverse health outcomes, yet no recent or systematic reviews of these exist. METHODS A systematic review of health outcomes associated with crack-cocaine use was performed, using MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and LILACS up to October 2016. Search terms included crack-cocaine and health outcome-related keywords, targeting peer-reviewed studies on quantified health outcomes associated with crack-cocaine use. Random effects meta-analyses produced pooled odds ratios. Levels of evidence for major results were assessed using the GRADE approach. A review protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42016035486). RESULTS Of 4700 articles returned, 302 met eligibility criteria, reporting on health outcomes for 14 of 22 ICD-10 chapters. Conclusive evidence and meta-analyses showed positive associations between crack-cocaine use and blood/sexually transmitted diseases (HIV and hepatitis C virus, others); moderate evidence and meta-analyses supported associations with neonatal health, and violence. There were mixed associations for mental and other health outcomes, yet insufficient evidence to perform meta-analyses for many categories (e.g., mortality). Most underlying research was of limited or poor quality, with crack-cocaine commonly assessed as a secondary covariate. CONCLUSIONS Crack-cocaine use was associated with a range of health outcomes, although it was unclear if there was direct causal impact, interactions between risk factors, or external drivers of both crack-cocaine use and outcomes. Rigorous epidemiological studies are needed to systematically assess health outcomes of crack-cocaine use and underlying pathways, also to inform evidence-based interventions.
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Understanding experiences of and rationales for sharing crack-smoking equipment: A qualitative study with persons who smoke crack in Montréal. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2017; 48:18-26. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2017.05.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2016] [Revised: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 05/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate possible modes of hepatitis C virus (HCV) acquisition in pregnant women found to be HCV-infected in the prenatal period and to assess transmission risk factors. METHODS This was a prospective cohort study conducted from March 2014 through June 2015 involving the distribution of an anonymous survey to HCV-infected pregnant women that assessed for numerous modes of potential HCV transmission involving, intravenous drug use, blood transfusion, organ transplant, sexual contact, tattoos, and snorting drugs with a straw. Participants were drawn from our institutional obstetric high-risk clinic. Statistical analysis involved simple percentages and χ comparisons where appropriate; P<.05 was considered significant. To test biologic plausibility, snorting utensils confiscated by law enforcement authorities from patients not in this study were tested for the presence of human blood. RESULTS A total of 189 HCV-infected pregnant patients completed the survey, and no approached patients declined. Of these, 136 (72%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 65-78%) admitted to intravenous drug use, of whom 89 (65%, 95% CI 57-73%) reported sharing needles. Of the 178 (94%, 95% CI 90-97%) who admitted snorting drugs, 164 (92%, 95% CI 87-96%) reported sharing straws. The difference between the proportion reporting sharing of snorting utensils compared with the proportion sharing intravenous drug use utensils was significant (P<.001). Twenty-nine patients (15%, 95% CI 11-21%) reported snorting drugs and sharing straws but denied any other risk factor except sexual contact. Of the 54 straws confiscated by law enforcement authorities, 13 (24%, 95% CI 13-38%) tested positive for the presence of human blood. CONCLUSION Sharing snorting utensils (straws) in noninjection drug use may be an additional risk factor for HCV and other virus transmission.
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Crowley D, Cullen W, Laird E, Lambert JS, Mc Hugh T, Murphy C, Van Hout MC. Exploring Patient Characteristics and Barriers to Hepatitis C Treatment in Patients on Opioid Substitution Treatment Attending a Community Based Fibro-scanning Clinic. J Transl Int Med 2017; 5:112-119. [PMID: 28721344 PMCID: PMC5506411 DOI: 10.1515/jtim-2017-0017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major public health issue. There is substandard uptake in HCV assessment and treatment among people who inject drugs (PWID). Community fibroscanning is used to assess disease severity and target treatment. METHODS A survey was administered to a cohort of chronically HCV infected patients attending a community fibroscanning clinic. Questions targeted diagnosis of HCV, suitability, willingness and barriers to engagement in treatment. Descriptive and regression analysis, with thematic analysis of open-ended data was conducted. RESULTS There was high acceptance of community fibroscanning among this cohort with over 90% (68) attending. High levels of unemployment (90%) and homelessness (40%) were identified. Most patients were on methadone treatment and had been HCV infected for greater than 10 years with length of time since HCV diagnosis being significantly longer in patients with fibroscan scores > 8.5 kPa (P = 0.016). With each unit increase in methadone dose, the odds of the >8.5 fibroscan group increased by 5.2%. Patient identified barriers to engagement were alcohol and drug use, fear of HCV treatment and liver biopsy, imprisonment, distance to hospital and early morning appointments. CONCLUSION The study highlights the usefulness of community fibroscanning. Identifying barriers to treatment in this cohort affords an opportunity to increase the treatment uptake. The availability of afternoon clinics and enhanced prison linkage are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Eamon Laird
- Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, Dublin2, Ireland
| | - John S Lambert
- Infectious Disease Department, Mater Hospital, Dublin7, Ireland
| | | | - Carol Murphy
- Infectious Disease Department, Mater Hospital, Dublin7, Ireland
| | - Marie Claire Van Hout
- Public Health Institute, Liverpool John Moore’s University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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Hepatitis B, C, and Delta—Updates in Screening and Infection Prevention Opportunities for Eradication. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s40506-017-0105-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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Page K, Yu M, Cohen J, Evans J, Shumway M, Riley ED. HCV screening in a cohort of HIV infected and uninfected homeless and marginally housed women in San Francisco, California. BMC Public Health 2017; 17:171. [PMID: 28173785 PMCID: PMC5297184 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-017-4102-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2016] [Accepted: 02/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C virus (HCV) screening has taken on new importance as a result of updated guidelines and new curative therapies. Relatively few studies have assessed HCV infection in homeless populations, and a minority include women. We assessed prevalence and correlates of HCV exposure in a cohort of homeless and unstably housed women in San Francisco, and estimated the proportion undiagnosed. METHODS A probability sample of 246 women were recruited at free meal programs, homeless shelters, and low-cost single room occupancy hotels in San Francisco; women with HIV were oversampled. At baseline, anti-HCV status was assessed using an enzyme immunoassay, and results compared in both HIV-positive and negative women. Exposures were assessed by self-report. Logistic regression was used to assess factors independently associated th HCV exposure. RESULTS Among 246 women 45.9% were anti-HCV positive, of whom 61.1% were HIV coinfected; 27.4% of positives reported no prior screening. Most (72%) women were in the 'baby-boomer' birth cohort; 19% reported recent injection drug use (IDU). Factors independently associated with anti-HCV positivity were: being born in 1965 or earlier (AOR) 3.94; 95%CI: 1.88, 8.26), IDU history (AOR 4.0; 95%CI: 1.68, 9.55), and number of psychiatric diagnoses (AOR 1.16; 95%CI: 1.08, 1.25). CONCLUSIONS Results fill an important gap in information regarding HCV among homeless women, and confirm the need for enhanced screening in this population where a high proportion are baby-boomers and have a history of drug use and psychiatric problems. Due to their age and risk profile, there is a high probability that women in this study have been infected for decades, and thus have significant liver disease. The association with mental illness and HCV suggests that in addition increased screening, augmenting mental health care and support may enhance treatment success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly Page
- Division of Epidemiology, Biostatistics & Preventive Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, MSC10 5550; 1 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM USA
| | - Michelle Yu
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - Jennifer Cohen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - Jennifer Evans
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - Martha Shumway
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | - Elise D. Riley
- Department of Medicine, Division of HIV, Infectious Disease and Global Health, San Francisco General Hospital, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
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