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Mostafavi E, Ebrahimi B, Doosti-Irani A, Mirzazadeh A. Prevalence of hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and tuberculosis among people living with HIV in Iran: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Infect Dis 2024; 24:777. [PMID: 39097724 PMCID: PMC11297631 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-024-09676-4] [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: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Up to now several studies estimate the prevalence of HBV, HCV, and TB among people living with HIV (PLWH) in Iran; however, their results are inconsistent. This study aimed to estimate the overall prevalence of HBV, HVC, and TB among Iranian PLWH. METHODS In this systematic review and meta-analysis six databases including Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, MagIran, Scientific Information Database (SID), and Barakat Knowledge network system were searched up to October 2023 with no language restriction. All studies estimated the prevalence of HBV, HCV, and TB among PLWH in Iran were included. The random-effects model was used to report the study estimates. Results were reported at a 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS Out of 1050 retrieved references, 58 articles met the eligibility criteria. Overall among PLWH, HBV prevalence was 13.0% (95% CI: 11.0, 15.0), HCV prevalence was 54% (95% CI: 45.0, 64.0), and TB prevalence was 19% (95% CI: 13.0, 24.0). The results from multivariate meta-regression analysis showed no statistically significant association between HBV and TB prevalence with the year of study, quality of studies, age, gender, and persons who inject drugs (PWID). HCV prevalence was significantly associated with PWID. CONCLUSION We found HBV, HCV, and TB infections are common among PLWH in Iran and required to be screened and treated with effective and timely services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Mostafavi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Research Centre for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bahram Ebrahimi
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Hamadan University of Medical Science, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Amin Doosti-Irani
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Research Center for Health Sciences, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran.
| | - Ali Mirzazadeh
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Price O, Swanton R, Grebely J, Hajarizadeh B, Webb P, Peacock A, Dore GJ, Cowie BC, Vickerman P, Degenhardt L. Vaccination coverage among people who inject drugs: A systematic review. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2024; 127:104382. [PMID: 38503233 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2024.104382] [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: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who inject drugs may be at excess risk of acquiring vaccine-preventable diseases and negative associated health outcomes, but experience barriers to vaccination. We aimed to determine vaccination coverage among people who inject drugs globally. METHODOLOGY We conducted systematic searches of the peer-reviewed and grey literature, date limited from January 2008 to August 2023, focusing on diseases for which people who inject drugs are at elevated risk for and for which an adult vaccination dose is recommended (COVID-19, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, human papillomavirus, influenza, pneumococcal disease, tetanus). To summarise available data, we conducted a narrative synthesis. RESULTS We included 78 studies/reports comprising 117 estimates of vaccination coverage across 36 countries. Most estimates were obtained from high income countries (80%, n=94). We located estimates for hepatitis B vaccination in 33 countries, which included 18 countries with data on serological evidence of vaccine-derived hepatitis B immunity (range: 6-53%) and 22 countries with self-report data for vaccine uptake (<1-96%). Data for other vaccines were scarcer: reported hepatitis A vaccination coverage ranged 3-89% (five countries), COVID-19 ranged 4-84% (five countries), while we located estimates from fewer than five countries for influenza, tetanus, pneumococcal disease, and human papillomavirus. CONCLUSION Estimates were sparse but where available indicative of suboptimal vaccination coverage among people who inject drugs. Improving the consistency, timeliness, and geographic coverage of vaccine uptake data among this population is essential to inform efforts to increase uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Price
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Rosie Swanton
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
| | | | | | - Paige Webb
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - Amy Peacock
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW, Sydney, Australia; School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | | | - Benjamin C Cowie
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; WHO Collaborating Centre for Viral Hepatitis, Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Australia; Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Peter Vickerman
- Population Health Science, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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3
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Dhiman RK, Grover GS, Premkumar M, Roy A, Taneja S, Duseja A, Arora S. Outcomes of Real-World Integrated HCV Microelimination for People Who Inject Drugs: An expansion of the Punjab Model. EClinicalMedicine 2021; 41:101148. [PMID: 34712928 PMCID: PMC8529203 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2021.101148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of chronic hepatitis C (CHC) in People Who Inject Drugs (PWID) is 8-10% as compared to 3·6% in the general population in Punjab, India. We assessed the real-world efficacy and safety of free-of-charge generic direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), sofosbuvir with an NS5A inhibitor (ledipasvir, daclatasvir or velpatasvir)±ribavirin in the microelimination of CHC in PWID in a public health setting. METHODS An integrated care team at 25 sites provided algorithm based DAAs treatment to PWID supervised by telemedicine clinics between 18th June 2016 and 31st July 2019. The primary endpoint was sustained virological response at 12 weeks (SVR-12); the secondary endpoints were treatment completion, adherence, safety, and adverse events. ClinicalTrials.gov number: NCT01110447. FINDINGS We enrolled 3477 PWID (87·2% men; mean age 33·6±12·5 years; 83·8% rural; 6·8% compensated cirrhosis). While 2280 (65·5%) patients completed treatment, 1978 patients completed 12 weeks of follow up for SVR-12. SVR-12 was achieved in 91·1% of patients per protocol, 49.5% as per intention to treat (ITT) and 90·1% in a modified ITT analysis. Of 546 (15·7%) patients with treatment interruptions, 99 (19·7%) could be traced to test for SVR-12 with a cure rate of 77·8%. There were no major adverse events or consequent treatment discontinuation. INTERPRETATION Integrated care of PWID with CHC with DAAs is safe and effective. Measures for reducing treatment interruptions will further improve outcomes. FUNDING The Government of the state of Punjab, India under the Mukh Mantri Punjab Hepatitis C Relief Fund (MMPHCRF) project, funds the project.
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Key Words
- ALT, alanine aminotransferase
- CHC, chronic hepatitis C
- CI, confidence interval
- DAAs, direct-acting antiviral agents
- DCV, Daclatasvir
- DH, District Hospital
- ECHO, Extension for Community healthcare Outcome
- G, Genotype
- HBV, hepatitis B virus
- HCC, hepatocellular carcinoma
- HCV
- HCV, hepatitis C virus
- IDU, injection drug use
- INASL, Indian National Association for study of the Liver
- India
- LDV, ledipasvir
- MMPHCRF, Mukh Mantri Punjab Hepatitis C Relief Fund
- NVHCP, National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme
- OST, opioid substitution therapy peg-interferon
- PWID, People Who Inject Drugs
- RBV, ribavirin
- SOF, sofosbuvir
- SVR, sustained virologic response
- VEL, Velpatasvir
- hepatitis C virus
- injection drug use
- microelimination
- people who inject drugs
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Affiliation(s)
- Radha K Dhiman
- Department of Hepatology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
- Mukh-Mantri Punjab Hepatitis C Relief Fund (MMPHCRF), Punjab Government, Punjab, India
- Technical Resource Group - National Viral Hepatitis Control Program (NVHCP), Government of India, India
- Injection Safety Project, Punjab Government, Punjab, India
| | | | - Madhumita Premkumar
- Department of Hepatology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Akash Roy
- Department of Hepatology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Sunil Taneja
- Department of Hepatology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Ajay Duseja
- Department of Hepatology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Sanjeev Arora
- ECHO Institute University of New Mexico, USA, New Mexico, United States
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Shayan SJ, Nazari R, Kiwanuka F. Prevalence of HIV and HCV among injecting drug users in three selected WHO-EMRO countries: a meta-analysis. Harm Reduct J 2021; 18:59. [PMID: 34044849 PMCID: PMC8161998 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-021-00505-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infections are responsible for a significant burden of mortality and morbidity, particularly in developing countries. This study sought to determine the prevalence of HIV and Hepatitis C among injecting drug users in Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan. METHODS This review conforms to the Preferred Reporting Guidelines for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement. Databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science/Knowledge, SID.ir, and MAGIRAN were searched. Studies that were published from 2003 up to 2018 were considered for analysis. Studies were screened for inclusion in duplicate, and also, that data were narratively synthesized. RESULTS We report on data from 79 articles. The total number of participants in studies that assessed the prevalence of HIV among injecting drug users included 68,926 participants, while those from studies that assessed HCV prevalence were 23,016 participants. Overall HIV and HCV prevalence among injecting drug users in the three selected countries were 9.1% (95% CI 6.9-12.0%) and 48.3% (95% CI 43.9-52.7%), respectively. Iran had the highest HIV prevalence of 11.0% among injectable drug users (95% CI 8.4-14.2%), while Afghanistan had the lowest HIV prevalence of 3.1% (95% CI 1.5-6.3%) among three selected countries. In Pakistan, the prevalence of HIV was 8.6% (95% CI 4.8-15.0%). Regarding HCV prevalence, Pakistan had the highest while Afghanistan had the lowest, 54.4% (95% CI 33.5-73.9%) and 37.3% (95% CI 35.2-39.4%), respectively. HCV prevalence in Iran was 47.7% (95% CI 43.4-52.0%). CONCLUSION Injecting drug users form a special cohort of persons at risk of HIV and Hepatitis C infections. The prevalence of HIV and Hepatitis noted from our findings is significantly high. Awareness of the grave risk of spreading HIV and Hepatitis C associated with sharing needles is recommended among this sub-group of drug users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shah Jahan Shayan
- Department of Fundamental of Nursing, School of Nursing, Kabul University of Medical Sciences, Jamal Mina, 3rd District, Kabul, Afghanistan.
| | - Rajab Nazari
- Department of Fundamental of Nursing, School of Nursing, Kabul University of Medical Sciences, Jamal Mina, 3rd District, Kabul, Afghanistan
| | - Frank Kiwanuka
- Department of Nursing Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
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Rajabi A, Sharafi H, Alavian SM. Harm reduction program and hepatitis C prevalence in people who inject drugs (PWID) in Iran: an updated systematic review and cumulative meta-analysis. Harm Reduct J 2021; 18:12. [PMID: 33482831 PMCID: PMC7825164 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-020-00441-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection among people who inject drugs (PWID) in Iran is high. Since 2005, the Iranian government has implemented a harm reduction program to control HCV. We aimed to describe the prevalence of HCV antibody (Ab) in Iranian PWID before and after the implementation of harm reduction with cumulative meta-analysis. METHODS Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies published on the seroprevalence of HCV among PWID. We systematically reviewed the literature to identify eligible studies up to December 2018 in international and national databases. Pooled prevalence and 95% confidence intervals were calculated using Der Simonian and Laird method, taking into account conceptual heterogeneity. Subgroup analyses were performed by harm reduction implementation and studies' characteristics to assess the sources of heterogeneity. We used Cochran-Armitage test for the linear trend of the prevalence of HCV Ab among PWID. RESULTS We reviewed 5966 papers and reports and extracted data from 62 eligible records. The pooled HCV Ab prevalence among PWID in Iran was 46.5% (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 41.1-52.0%). Overall, the Cochran-Armitage test for trend indicated a significant decreasing trend of HCV Ab prevalence (P = 0.04). The cumulative meta-analysis showed a slight decline in the prevalence of HCV Ab between the years 2005 and 2018. CONCLUSIONS The HCV Ab prevalence among PWID in Iran is high, with a considerable geographical variation. The prevalence of HCV Ab among PWID in Iran slightly decreased after 2005 which could be, at least to some extent, related to the implementation of extensive harm reduction programs in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdolhalim Rajabi
- Baqiyatallah Research Center for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases (BRCGL), Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Environmental Health Research Center, Faculty of Health, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | | | - Seyed Moayed Alavian
- Baqiyatallah Research Center for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases (BRCGL), Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Middle East Liver Diseases (MELD) Center, Tehran, Iran.
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Rostam-Abadi Y, Rafiemanesh H, Gholami J, Shadloo B, Amin-Esmaeili M, Rahimi-Movaghar A. Hepatitis B virus infection among people who use drugs in Iran: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and trend analysis. Harm Reduct J 2020; 17:81. [PMID: 33087141 PMCID: PMC7579800 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-020-00424-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background People who use drugs (PWUD) are considered as one of the main at-risk populations for Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. We conducted a systematic review on the prevalence of HBV infection among PWUD in Iran. Methods Consistent with PRISMA guideline, international (Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase) and national (Scientific Information Database) databases were searched using a comprehensive search strategy up to September 2019. The retrieved records were reviewed, and experts were contacted for unpublished studies. Studies on Iranian PWUD reporting HBV surface Antigen (HBsAg) prevalence among people who inject drugs (PWID) and non-injecting PWUD were included. HBsAg prevalence was pooled for PWID and non-injecting PWUD and for other subgroups using random-effects model meta-analysis. The trend of HBV prevalence over time was investigated using meta-regression analysis. Results Overall, 35 studies reported data on HBV infection among PWID (33 studies) and non-injecting PWUD (11 studies). The pooled prevalence of HBsAg among PWID was 4.8% (95% CI 3.7–6.2). The only risk factor significantly associated with the odds of positive HBsAg in PWID was the previous history of imprisonment (OR 1.72, 95% CI 1.29–2.30, p value = 0.000). The pooled estimate of HBsAg among non-injecting PWUD was 2.9% (95% CI 2.5–3.2). Time trend analyses showed significant decrease in HBV prevalence among PWID reaching from 8.2% (95% CI 3.9–16.5) in 2004–2006 to 3.1% (95% CI 2.3–4.1) in 2016 and later (b = -0.07; p value = 0.05). No significant trend was detected for non-injecting PWUD. Conclusion The prevalence of HBV infection among non-injecting PWUD and even PWID was not considerably higher than the Iranian general population. This might be the result of extensive harm reduction interventions in Iran. However, it seems that there are subgroups of PWID, who do not adequately benefit from existing harm reduction interventions. Future programs should more specifically target these high-risk groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasna Rostam-Abadi
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, No. 486, South Karegar Ave., 1336616357, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Rafiemanesh
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jaleh Gholami
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, No. 486, South Karegar Ave., 1336616357, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Behrang Shadloo
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, No. 486, South Karegar Ave., 1336616357, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Amin-Esmaeili
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, No. 486, South Karegar Ave., 1336616357, Tehran, Iran.,Mental Health Department, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
| | - Afarin Rahimi-Movaghar
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, No. 486, South Karegar Ave., 1336616357, Tehran, Iran
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Najafi Z, Taj L, Dadras O, Ghadimi F, Moradmand B, SeyedAlinaghi S. Epidemiology of HIV in Iran. Curr HIV Res 2020; 18:228-236. [PMID: 32503409 DOI: 10.2174/1570162x18666200605152317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
:
Iran has been one of the active countries fighting against HIV/AIDS in the Middle East
during the last decades. Moreover, there is a strong push to strengthen the national health management
system concerning HIV prevention and control. In Iran, HIV disease has its unique features,
from changes in modes of transmission to improvement in treatment and care programs, which can
make it a good case for closer scrutiny. The present review describes the HIV epidemic in Iran from
the first case diagnosed until prevention among different groups at risk and co-infections. Not only
we addressed the key populations and community-based attempts to overcome HIV-related issues in
clinics, but we also elaborated on the efforts and trends in society and the actual behaviors related to
HIV/AIDS. Being located in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, given the countryspecific
characteristics, and despite all the national efforts along with other countries in this region,
Iran still needs to take extra measures to reduce HIV transmission, especially in health education.
Although Iran is one of the pioneers in implementing applicable and appropriate policies in the
MENA region, including harm reduction services to reduce HIV incidence, people with substance
use disorder continue to be the majority of those living with HIV in the country. Similar to other
countries in this region, the HIV prevention and control programs aim at 90-90-90 targets to eliminate
HIV infection and reduce the transmission, especially the mother-to-child transmission and
among other key populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Najafi
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Taj
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Omid Dadras
- Department of Health Informatics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Fatemeh Ghadimi
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - SeyedAhmad SeyedAlinaghi
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Mahmud S, Mumtaz GR, Chemaitelly H, Al Kanaani Z, Kouyoumjian SP, Hermez JG, Abu‐Raddad LJ. The status of hepatitis C virus infection among people who inject drugs in the Middle East and North Africa. Addiction 2020; 115:1244-1262. [PMID: 32009283 PMCID: PMC7318323 DOI: 10.1111/add.14944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2019] [Revised: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS People who inject drugs (PWID) are a key population at high risk of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. The aim of this study was to delineate the epidemiology of HCV in PWID in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). METHODS Syntheses of data were conducted on the standardized and systematically assembled databases of the MENA HCV Epidemiology Synthesis Project, 1989-2018. Random-effects meta-analyses and meta-regressions were performed. Meta-regression variables included country, study site, year of data collection and year of publication [to assess trends in HCV antibody prevalence over time], sample size and sampling methodology. Numbers of chronically infected PWID across MENA were estimated. The Shannon Diversity Index was calculated to assess genotype diversity. RESULTS Based on 118 HCV antibody prevalence measures, the pooled mean prevalence in PWID for all MENA was 49.3% [95% confidence interval (CI) = 44.4-54.1%]. The country-specific pooled mean ranged from 21.7% (95% CI = 4.9-38.6%) in Tunisia to 94.2% (95% CI = 90.8-96.7%) in Libya. An estimated 221 704 PWID were chronically infected, with the largest numbers found in Iran at 68 526 and in Pakistan at 46 554. There was no statistically significant evidence for a decline in HCV antibody prevalence over time. Genotype diversity was moderate (Shannon Diversity Index of 1.01 out of 1.95; 52.1%). The pooled mean percentage for each HCV genotype was highest in genotype 3 (42.7%) and in genotype 1 (35.9%). CONCLUSION Half of people who inject drugs in the Middle East and North Africa appear to have ever been infected with hepatitis C virus, but there are large variations in antibody prevalence among countries. In addition to > 200 000 chronically infected current people who inject drugs, there is an unknown number of people who no longer inject drugs who may have acquired hepatitis C virus during past injecting drug use. Harm reduction services must be expanded, and innovative strategies need to be employed to ensure accessibility to hepatitis C virus testing and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarwat Mahmud
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine‐QatarCornell University, Qatar Foundation, Education CityDohaQatar
| | - Ghina R. Mumtaz
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine‐QatarCornell University, Qatar Foundation, Education CityDohaQatar,Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Faculty of Health SciencesAmerican University of BeirutBeirutLebanon
| | - Hiam Chemaitelly
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine‐QatarCornell University, Qatar Foundation, Education CityDohaQatar
| | - Zaina Al Kanaani
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine‐QatarCornell University, Qatar Foundation, Education CityDohaQatar
| | - Silva P. Kouyoumjian
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine‐QatarCornell University, Qatar Foundation, Education CityDohaQatar
| | - Joumana G. Hermez
- Department of Communicable Diseases, HIV/Hepatitis/STIs Unit, World Health Organization,Regional Office for the Eastern MediterraneanCairoEgypt
| | - Laith J. Abu‐Raddad
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medicine‐QatarCornell University, Qatar Foundation, Education CityDohaQatar,Department of Healthcare Policy and Research, Weill Cornell MedicineCornell UniversityNew YorkNY, USA,College of Health and Life SciencesHamad bin Khalifa UniversityDohaQatar
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9
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Rahimi J, Gholami J, Amin-Esmaeili M, Fotouhi A, Rafiemanesh H, Shadloo B, Rahimi-Movaghar A. HIV prevalence among people who inject drugs (PWID) and related factors in Iran: a systematic review, meta-analysis and trend analysis. Addiction 2020; 115:605-622. [PMID: 31631425 DOI: 10.1111/add.14853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Revised: 03/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
AIMS In Iran, injecting drug use has been the major route of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) transmission. In order to control the HIV epidemic, a harm reduction program was initiated and has been expanded in recent years. The aim of this study was to provide an updated estimate of HIV prevalence among people who inject drugs (PWID) in Iran, investigate prevalence differences over time and assess prevalence correlates. DESIGN A comprehensive systematic review was undertaken in the international, regional and national bibliographic databases in November 2018 and extensive contacts with authors were made. For studies conducted before 2005, we used data from a previous published systematic review. SETTING All studies conducted in Iran were included. Recruitment settings included anywhere except studies conducted in infectious diseases wards or HIV counseling centers. PARTICIPANTS PWID with any definition utilized in the studies. Thirty-six studies were included, which were conducted in 24 of 31 provinces with a sample size of 22 160 PWID. MEASUREMENTS We included studies that had performed HIV testing and had a confirmed diagnosis of HIV through repeating the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or Western immunoblot assay (WB). Pooled prevalence of HIV was calculated for the total sample and for different subgroups, by available socio-demographic and behavioral factors. For assessing the trend of HIV prevalence over time, a linear meta-regression model was fitted separately for before 2007 and during 2007 and afterwards. FINDINGS The pooled prevalences of HIV before 2007 and in 2007 and afterwards were 14.3% [95% confidence interval (CI) = 9.8-18.9] and 9.7% (95% CI = 7.6-11.9), respectively. HIV prevalence increased until 2005-06 and then slowly declined until 2009-10, which was not significant. Prevalence of HIV was significantly higher in PWID above age 25 years, and in those with history of imprisonment and history of needle/syringe-sharing. HIV prevalence was higher in men than in women, but the difference was insignificant. CONCLUSION The prevalence of HIV among people who inject drugs in Iran decreased after 2006 which could, at least in part, be attributed to the development of extensive harm reduction programs in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamileh Rahimi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jaleh Gholami
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Amin-Esmaeili
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Akbar Fotouhi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hosein Rafiemanesh
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behrang Shadloo
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Afarin Rahimi-Movaghar
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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10
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Hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus and human immunodeficiency virus infections among people who inject drugs in Kuwait: A cross-sectional study. Sci Rep 2019; 9:6292. [PMID: 31000775 PMCID: PMC6472359 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-42810-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Injection drug use (IDU) is one of the most significant risk factors for viral hepatitis (B and C) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections. This study assessed seroprevalence rates of hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in people who inject drugs (PWID) in Kuwait. We conducted a cross-sectional study from April to September 2017. A total of 521 consecutive subjects, admitted at Al-Sabah Hospital. The serological and virological markers of HBV, HCV, and HIV were tested using automated platforms. The mean age of the participants was 32.26 yrs, and the sex ratio (Male/Female) was 15.28. The prevalence rates of HBsAg, anti-HCV, and anti-HIV antibodies were 0.38% (95% CI: 0.07-1.53%), 12.28% (95% CI: 9.65-15.48), and 0.77% (95% CI: 0.25-2.23%), respectively. HCV-RNA was evident in 51.72% (95% CI: 38.34-64.87%) among anti-HCV positive participants. Multivariate analysis showed that the high prevalence of HCV infection amongst PWID is associated with age. Whereas, multivariate analysis revealed no significant associations with age and gender regarding HIV and HBV infections. The results suggest that high rates of HBV, HCV, and HIV infections among injecting drug users than the general population. These findings emphasize the importance of introducing interventions and harm reduction initiatives that have a high impact on reducing needle sharing.
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11
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Khani Jeihooni A, Kouhpayeh A, Najafi S, Bazrafshan MR. Application theory of planned behavior on promotion of safe sexual behaviors among drug users. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/14659891.2018.1562575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ali Khani Jeihooni
- Department of Public Health, School of Health, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Amin Kouhpayeh
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Siamak Najafi
- Department of Public Health, School of Health, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Rafi Bazrafshan
- Department of Nursing, School of Nursing, Larestan University of Medical Sciences, Larestan, Iran
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12
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Prevalence and Risk Factors for Occult Hepatitis B and HIV Infections Among HCV Infected Intravenous Drug Users, Tehran, Iran. ARCHIVES OF CLINICAL INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2018. [DOI: 10.5812/archcid.3075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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13
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Keshavarzi S, Khani Jeihooni A, Yazdanpanah A. Effect of Educational Program Based on the Theory of Planned Behavior on Increasing the Safe Sexual Behaviors among Addicts Covered by Addiction Treatment Centers in Shiraz. JOURNAL OF EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY HEALTH 2018. [DOI: 10.21859/jech.5.2.45] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
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14
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Taleban R, Moafi M, Ataei B, Yaran M, Nokhodian Z, Kassaian N, Adibi P, Javadi A. Seroprevalence of Hepatitis B Infection and Associated Risk Factors among Drug Users in Drop-in Centers of Isfahan, Iran. Int J Prev Med 2018; 9:46. [PMID: 29899884 PMCID: PMC5981222 DOI: 10.4103/ijpvm.ijpvm_382_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2016] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Scientists perceive drug users (DUs) as a high-risk population for hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Effective strategies aiming at the reduction of HBV infection can be depicted when its epidemiological status is clearly defined. The present study provides new insight into associated risk factors of HBV infection and its seroepidemiological status among DUs attending drop-in centers (DICs). Methods: This was a cross-sectional study, which was implemented in 7 DICs of Isfahan province. The sample size included 539 participants. Demographic data and risk factors for HBV infection were obtained by a trained social worker using a self-made structured questionnaire. Venous blood sample was obtained and tested for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), hepatitis B surface antibody, and total hepatitis B core antibody (HBcAb) using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: Mean age of the participants was 31.76 ± 8.4 years. They were generally male, Iranian, urban, with an education level of high school or less. The prevalence of HBV infection (HBsAg and/or HBcAb) was 18% (88.490). Regression analysis showed that age, bloodletting, and drug injection, being the sexual partner of injecting DU (IDU), as well as frequency and duration of imprisonment positively correlated with HBV infection. Conclusions: Drug injection bloodletting, and being the sexual partner of IDU, as well as frequency and duration of imprisonment could be considered as contributing factors in HBV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roya Taleban
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Moafi
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Behrooz Ataei
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Majid Yaran
- Acquired Immunodeficiency Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Zary Nokhodian
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Nazila Kassaian
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Peyman Adibi
- Integrative Functional Gastroenterology Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Abbasali Javadi
- Nosocomial Infection Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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HIV Risk Perception and Risky Behavior Among People Who Inject Drugs in Kermanshah, Western Iran. Int J Behav Med 2018; 24:613-618. [PMID: 28124192 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-017-9634-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Understanding and increasing awareness on individual risk for HIV infection as well as HIV risk perception's effects on different behavioral outcomes for people who inject drugs (PWID) is important for policymaking and planning purposes. The objectives of the present study were to determine whether HIV risk perception was associated with greater injection and sexual risk-taking behaviors among PWIDs. METHOD We surveyed 460 PWID in Kermanshah regarding their demographic characteristics, sexual risk behaviors, HIV risk perception, and drug-related risk behaviors in the month prior to the study. Three classes of HIV risk perception were identified using ordinal regression to determine factors associated with HIV risk perception. RESULTS Study participants were categorized as follows: "low" (n = 100, 22%), "moderate" (n = 150, 32%), and "high" (n = 210, 46%) risk perception for becoming infected with HIV. The odds of categorizing as "high" risk for HIV was significantly greater in PWID that reported unprotected sex (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 2.4, p value 0.02), receptive syringe sharing (AOR 1.8, p value 0.01), and multiple sex partners (AOR 1.4, p value 0.03). PWID who reported unprotected sex had 2.7 times the odds of "high" risk perception when compared to PWID with "low" risk perception. CONCLUSION Findings show that PWID could rate their HIV risk with acceptable accuracy. Additionally, perceived HIV risk was associated with many risk factors for transmission of HIV, emphasizing the importance of developing targeted prevention and harm reduction programs for all domains of risk behaviors, both sexual and drug-related use.
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Mahmud S, Akbarzadeh V, Abu-Raddad LJ. The epidemiology of hepatitis C virus in Iran: Systematic review and meta-analyses. Sci Rep 2018; 8:150. [PMID: 29317673 PMCID: PMC5760657 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-18296-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2017] [Accepted: 12/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to characterize hepatitis C virus (HCV) epidemiology in Iran and estimate the pooled mean HCV antibody prevalence in different risk populations. We systematically reviewed and synthesized reports of HCV incidence and/or prevalence, as informed by the Cochrane Collaboration Handbook, and reported our findings following the PRISMA guidelines. DerSimonian-Laird random effects meta-analyses were implemented to estimate HCV prevalence in various risk populations. We identified five HCV incidence and 472 HCV prevalence measures. Our meta-analyses estimated HCV prevalence at 0.3% among the general population, 6.2% among intermediate risk populations, 32.1% among high risk populations, and 4.6% among special clinical populations. Our meta-analyses for subpopulations estimated HCV prevalence at 52.2% among people who inject drugs (PWID), 20.0% among populations at high risk of healthcare-related exposures, and 7.5% among populations with liver-related conditions. Genotype 1 was the most frequent circulating strain at 58.2%, followed by genotype 3 at 39.0%. HCV prevalence in the general population was lower than that found in other Middle East and North Africa countries and globally. However, HCV prevalence was high in PWID and populations at high risk of healthcare-related exposures. Ongoing transmission appears to be driven by drug injection and specific healthcare procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarwat Mahmud
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medical College - Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Vajiheh Akbarzadeh
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medical College - Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Healthcare Policy and Research, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Laith J Abu-Raddad
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medical College - Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar.
- Department of Healthcare Policy and Research, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, New York, USA.
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Khatib A, Matiko E, Khalid F, Welty S, Ali A, Othman A, Haji S, Dahoma M, Rutherford G. HIV and hepatitis B and C co-infection among people who inject drugs in Zanzibar. BMC Public Health 2017; 17:917. [PMID: 29183287 PMCID: PMC5706423 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-017-4933-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who inject drugs are at high risk of acquiring hepatitis B (HBV), hepatitis C (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) due to risky injection and sexual practices. The objective of this study is to investigate the epidemiology of HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C, and co-infection of these viruses among people who inject drugs in Zanzibar, Tanzania. METHODS We used respondent-driven sampling to identify 408 participants, from whom we collected demographic data, information on sexual behaviours and injection drug practices, and blood samples for biological testing. RESULTS Prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigenaemia, HCV, and HIV infection were 5.9, 25.4, and 11.3%, respectively. Of the participants who were hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) positive, 33.5% were infected with HCV and 18.8% were infected with HIV. Of the HCV-infected participants, 29.3% were infected with HIV. Of the participants who were infected with HIV, 9.0% were HBsAg positive, 66.6% had HCV and 8.5% had both. None of the potential risk factors we measured were associated with HBsAg positivity. In contrast, older age and longer duration of injection drug use were independently associated with HCV infection. HCV infection among people who inject drugs is lower in Zanzibar than in other countries, but could rise without proper interventions. CONCLUSIONS These findings underscore the importance of screening people who inject drugs for HIV, HBsAg, and HCV; providing HBV vaccination to those who are eligible; initiating antiretroviral therapy for those who are co-infected with HIV/HBV and HIV/HCV; and introducing interventions that have high impact on reducing needle sharing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Khatib
- Zanzibar AIDS Control Program, Ministry of Health, Zanzibar, United Republic of Tanzania.
| | - Eva Matiko
- Division of Global HIV/AIDS, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Farhat Khalid
- Zanzibar AIDS Control Program, Ministry of Health, Zanzibar, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Susie Welty
- Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Ameir Ali
- Zanzibar AIDS Control Program, Ministry of Health, Zanzibar, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Asha Othman
- Zanzibar AIDS Control Program, Ministry of Health, Zanzibar, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Shaaban Haji
- Zanzibar AIDS Control Program, Ministry of Health, Zanzibar, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Mohammed Dahoma
- Directorate of Preventive Services and Health Education, Ministry of Health, Zanzibar, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - George Rutherford
- Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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18
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Estimating the Population Size of Female Sex Worker Population in Tehran, Iran: Application of Direct Capture-Recapture Method. AIDS Behav 2017. [PMID: 28623569 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-017-1803-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
There is no reliable estimate of the size of female sex workers (FSWs). This study aimed to estimate the size of FSWs in south of Tehran, Iran in 2016 using direct capture-recapture method. In the capture phase, the hangouts of FSWs were mapped as their meeting places. FSWs who agreed to participate in the study tagged with a T-shirt. The recapture phase was implemented at the same places tagging FSWs with a blue bracelet. The total estimated size of FSWs was 690 (95% CI 633, 747). About 89.43% of FSWs experienced sexual intercourse prior to age 20. The prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus infection among FSWs was 4.60%. The estimated population size of FSWs was much more than our expectation. This issue must be the focus of special attention for planning prevention strategies. However, alternative estimates require to estimating the number FSWs, reliably.
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Jamalidoust M, Namayandeh M, Moghadami M, Ziyaeyan M. Comparison of HCV viral load and its genotype distributions in HCV mono- and HIV/HCV co-infected illicit drug users. Virol J 2017; 14:127. [PMID: 28697809 PMCID: PMC5505147 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-017-0797-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2016] [Accepted: 07/05/2017] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Because of shared modes of transmission, patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection are often co-infected with other types of hepatitis viruses and/or HIV. We studied HCV viral load and its genotype patterns among HCV mono- and HCV/HIV co-infected Illicit Drug Users in Fars province-Iran. METHODS Totally, 580 HCV seropositive IDUs referred to Prof. Alborzi Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Shiraz, Iran, without receiving any anti-HCV treatment, were enrolled. After their HCV infections were reconfirmed by one step rapid diagnostic test, HCV RNA level and HCV genotypes were determined by Taq-man real-time PCR assays. Their HIV serostatus was determined and seropositive patients were excluded from the group. In addition, 104 HIV/HCV co-infected IDUs referred from Shiraz Behavioral Diseases Consultation Center (SBDC) were assessed for HCV RNA level and HCV genotype patterns, as well. RESULTS The overall estimated HIV prevalence was 6.7% (39/580) among HCV seropositive IDUs. Genotype 1, the most prevalent genotype in both groups, was detected in 69% and 49% of co- and mono-infected IDUs, respectively. Median HCV viral load was significantly higher in HIV/HCV co-infected patients, compared with that among HCV mono-infected counterparts. CONCLUSIONS Given the higher baseline HCV viral load and GT1 attributed to poorer treatments response, HCV treatment must be more considered among HCV/HIV co-infected IDUs, compared to those mono-infected with HCV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzieh Jamalidoust
- Department of Virology, Professor Alborzi Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Nemazi Hospital, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, P. O. Box: 31, Shiraz, 71937-11351 Iran
| | - Mandana Namayandeh
- Department of Virology, Professor Alborzi Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Nemazi Hospital, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, P. O. Box: 31, Shiraz, 71937-11351 Iran
| | - Mohsen Moghadami
- Department of Virology, Professor Alborzi Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Nemazi hospital, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, 71937-11351 Iran
| | - Mazyar Ziyaeyan
- Department of Virology, Professor Alborzi Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Nemazi Hospital, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, P. O. Box: 31, Shiraz, 71937-11351 Iran
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Thrash C, Welch-Lazoritz M, Gauthier G, Khan B, Abadie R, Dombrowski K, De Leon SM, Rolon Colon Y. Rural and urban injection drug use in Puerto Rico: Network implications for human immunodeficiency virus and hepatitis C virus infection. J Ethn Subst Abuse 2017; 17:199-222. [PMID: 28665196 DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2017.1326864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the short- and long-term transmission dynamics of blood-borne illnesses in network contexts represents an important public health priority for people who inject drugs and the general population that surrounds them. The purpose of this article is to compare the risk networks of urban and rural people who inject drugs in Puerto Rico. In the current study, network characteristics are drawn from the sampling "trees" used to recruit participants to the study. We found that injection frequency is the only factor significantly related to clustering behavior among both urban and rural people who inject drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Bilal Khan
- a University of Nebraska , Lincoln , Nebraska
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21
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Habibi M, Farmanfarmaee S, Darharaj M, Khoshnood K, Matacotta JJ, O’Bryan J. Predictors of HIV Risk Behavior in Iranian Women Who Inject Drugs. JOURNAL OF DRUG ISSUES 2017. [DOI: 10.1177/0022042617693383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate predictors of drug-related HIV risk behaviors among women who inject drugs. A total of 163 women were recruited from harm-reduction-oriented drug-treatment centers in Tehran, Iran. Each completed a set of measures that included the Risk Behavior Assessment, Beck Depression Inventory–Second Edition, Revised Self-Efficacy Scale, and Peer Group Beliefs Regarding HIV-related Risk Behaviors Scale. The results indicated that past attempts to abstain from drugs, using methadone maintenance treatment programs, and acceptance of peers’ risky norms were significant predisposing, enabling, and reinforcing predictors of frequency of injection, respectively. Furthermore, predictors of frequency of sharing injection paraphernalia included purchasing drugs jointly with other drug users and peers’ norms conforming injecting drug use behaviors. Harm reduction services that take into consideration cultural and peer norms, as well as the development and implementation of HIV prevention programs, are likely to reduce drug-related HIV risk behaviors in women who inject drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Kaveh Khoshnood
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, New Haven, CT, USA
| | | | - Jane O’Bryan
- Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
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22
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Rezaei M, Zakiei A, Reshadat S, Ghasemi SR. The role of individual and personality factors in controlling risky behaviours related to AIDS: Proposing a causal model. Personal Ment Health 2017; 11:51-63. [PMID: 27910258 DOI: 10.1002/pmh.1361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2015] [Revised: 09/10/2016] [Accepted: 09/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Investigating previous studies show that personality traits have an important role in controlling risky behaviours related to AIDS; therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between AIDS health literacy, personality traits and mental health and controlling risky behaviours related to AIDS through self-efficacy. METHODS The statistical population includes all the young people in western provinces of Iran, 2015. Data analysis was carried out for a sample of 756 participants (59% female). RESULTS The results show that except for the socializing trait, all the other variables are related to controlling risky behaviours. In addition, variables of health literacy related to AIDS, mental health, activity, impulsive sensation seeking and hostility have a direct relation to controlling risky behaviours. Also, the predicting behaviours can predict 62% of the variance in controlling risky behaviours related to AIDS. The analysis results show that health literacy has an indirect impact on controlling risky behaviours through self-efficacy. In other words, health literacy related to AIDS leads to controlling risky behaviours when self-efficacy is high for controlling risky behaviours. CONCLUSION Based on the results, it is recommended that the role of self-efficacy in controlling risky behaviours be considered as a strategy for preventing AIDS. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mansour Rezaei
- Social Development and Health Promotion Research Centre, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Ali Zakiei
- Centre of Excellence for Community Oriented for Medicine Education, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Soheyla Reshadat
- Social Development and Health Promotion Research Centre, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.,Centre of Excellence for Community Oriented for Medicine Education, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Seyed Ramin Ghasemi
- Social Development and Health Promotion Research Centre, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
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Abadie R, Welch-Lazoritz M, Bilal K, Dombrowski K. Social Determinants of HIV/HCV Co-Infection: A case Study from People Who Inject Drugs in Rural Puerto Rico. Addict Behav Rep 2017; 5:29-32. [PMID: 28983502 PMCID: PMC5624334 DOI: 10.1016/j.abrep.2017.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Co-infection correlates with age, longer period of drug use, medical insurance coverage and sexual identity. LGBT PWID are vulnerable to co-infection. Stigma, commercial sex and violence compounds risk. Culturally sensitive prevention strategies focused on this particular population should be implemented to avoid co-infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Abadie
- Department of Sociology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 206 Benton Hall, Lincoln, NE 68588 USA
| | - Melissa Welch-Lazoritz
- Department of Sociology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 206 Benton Hall, Lincoln, NE 68588 USA
| | - Khan Bilal
- Department of Sociology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 206 Benton Hall, Lincoln, NE 68588 USA
| | - Kirk Dombrowski
- Department of Sociology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 206 Benton Hall, Lincoln, NE 68588 USA
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Rezaei F, Noroozi A, Armoon B, Farhoudian A, Massah O, Sharifi H, Ahounbar E, Khodadost M, Mohammadi F, Barkhordar N, Mansourian M, Noroozi M. Social determinants and hepatitis C among people who inject drugs in Kermanshah, Iran: Socioeconomic status, homelessness, and sufficient syringe coverage. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/14659891.2016.1245793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Rezaei
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatics, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Fars, Iran
| | - Alireza Noroozi
- School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine (SATiM), Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran
- Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Office (SAPTO), Ministry of Health and Medical Education (MoHME), Tehran, Iran
| | - Bahram Armoon
- Department of Epidemiology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Farhoudian
- Substance Abuse and Dependence Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Omid Massah
- Substance Abuse and Dependence Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Sharifi
- HIV/STI Surveillance Research Center, and WHO Collaborating Center for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Elaheh Ahounbar
- Psychosis Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Khodadost
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farahnaz Mohammadi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nasrin Barkhordar
- Mental Health, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Morteza Mansourian
- Department of Health Education and Promotion, School of Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Noroozi
- Substance Abuse and Dependence Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Hajebi A, Naserbakht M, Noroozi A. Adding-On a Brief Skill-Based HIV Prevention Psychoeducation to Needle and Syringe Programs: A Randomized Controlled Trial. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY AND BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES 2016. [DOI: 10.17795/ijpbs-7411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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26
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Bokharaei-Salim F, Keyvani H, Esghaei M, Zare-Karizi S, Dermenaki-Farahani SS, Hesami-Zadeh K, Fakhim S. Prevalence of occult hepatitis C virus infection in the Iranian patients with human immunodeficiency virus infection. J Med Virol 2016; 88:1960-6. [PMID: 27463051 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.24474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Occult hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a new form of chronic HCV infection described by the presence of the genomic HCV-RNA in liver biopsy and/or peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) samples, and undetectable levels or absence of HCV-RNA and in the absence or presence of anti HCV antibodies in the plasma specimens. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the occurrence of occult HCV infection (OCI) among Iranian subjects infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) using RT-nested PCR. From March 2014 until April 2015, 109 Iranian patients with established HIV infection were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. After extraction of viral RNA from the plasma and PBMC samples, HCV-RNA status was examined by RT-nested PCR using primers from the 5'-NTR. HCV genotyping was conducted using RFLP analysis. For the confirmation of HCV genotyping by RFLP method, the PCR products were sequenced. Of the 109 patients, 50 were positive for antibodies against HCV. The HCV-RNA was detected in PBMC specimens in 6 (10.2%) out of the total 59 patients negative for anti-HCV Abs and undetectable plasma HCV-RNA and also from 4 (8.0%) out of the total 50 patients positive for anti-HCV Abs and undetectable plasma HCV-RNA. HCV genotyping analysis showed that 6 (60.0%) patients were infected with HCV subtype 3a, 3 (30.0%) were infected with HCV subtype 1a and 1 (10.0%) patient was infected with HCV subtype 1b. This study revealed the incidence of OCI (9.2%) in HIV-infected Iranian patients. Hence, designing prospective studies focusing on the detection of OCI in these patients would provide more information. J. Med. Virol. 88:1960-1966, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farah Bokharaei-Salim
- Department of Virology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,HIV Laboratory of National Center, Deputy of Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Keyvani
- Department of Virology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Esghaei
- Department of Virology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shohreh Zare-Karizi
- Department of Genetic, Islamic Azad University, Varamin Pishva Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | | | | | - Shahin Fakhim
- Faculty of Engineering, Department of Civil Engineering, Payame Noor University, Karaj, Iran
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Moeeni M, Razaghi EM, Ponnet K, Torabi F, Shafiee SA, Pashaei T. Predictors of time to relapse in amphetamine-type substance users in the matrix treatment program in Iran: a Cox proportional hazard model application. BMC Psychiatry 2016; 16:265. [PMID: 27455958 PMCID: PMC4960917 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-016-0973-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2015] [Accepted: 06/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to determine which predictors influence the risk of relapse among a cohort of amphetamine-type substance (ATS) users in Iran. METHODS A Cox proportional hazards model was conducted to determine factors associated with the relapse time in the Matrix treatment program provided by the Iranian National Center of Addiction Studies (INCAS) between March 2010 and October 2011. RESULTS Participating in more treatment sessions was associated with a lower probability of relapse. On the other hand, patients with less family support, longer dependence on ATS, and those with an experience of casual sex and a history of criminal offenses were more likely to relapse. CONCLUSION This study broadens our understanding of factors influencing the risk of relapse in ATS use among an Iranian sample. The findings can guide practitioners during the treatment program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Moeeni
- Health Management and Economics Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Science (TUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Emran M. Razaghi
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Koen Ponnet
- Department of Communication Studies, Media, ICT/Interpersonal Relations in Organizations and Society (MIOS), University of Antwerp, Sint-Jacobsstraat 2, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium
- Department of Communication Studies, Research Group for Media & ICT (MICT), Ghent University, Korte Meer 11, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Higher Institute for Family Sciences, Odisee, Huart Hamoirlaan 136, 1030 Brussels, Belgium
- Antwerp Maritime Academy, Noordkasteel Oost 6, Antwerp, 2030 Belgium
| | - Fatemeh Torabi
- Department of Demography, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Ali Shafiee
- Department of Neurosciences and Addiction Studies,School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tahereh Pashaei
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
- Department of public health, School of Health, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
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Afzali H, Momen-Heravi M, Farokhzad A. Epidemiological Distribution and Genotype Characterization of the Hepatitis C Virus Among HIV Patients in Kashan, Iran. HEPATITIS MONTHLY 2016; 16:e30459. [PMID: 27642343 PMCID: PMC5018303 DOI: 10.5812/hepatmon.30459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2015] [Revised: 04/12/2016] [Accepted: 05/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parenteral transmission is a common route of transmission for both human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV); therefore, hepatitis C viral infection is highly prevalent among people infected with HIV. OBJECTIVES This study was designed to examine the epidemiology and describe the clinical manifestation as well as the HCV genotypes in patients from the city of Kashan, Iran, who are coinfected with HIV and HCV. PATIENTS AND METHODS This descriptive study was conducted in 2014 in the city of Kashan. The population consisted of all the HIV-infected patients who were referred to the behavioral counseling center and jail in Kashan. Demographic information and HCV- and HIV-related risk behaviors were obtained through the use of an interviewer-assisted questionnaire. After the participants gave written informed consent to participate, 10 cc venous blood samples were collected. The serum samples were screened for HCV infection using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In the event of a positive test for HCV, the RNA was then amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification. The HCV subtypes were determined via the direct sequencing of the amplicons. All data analysis was performed using SPSS version 16.0 for the descriptive statistics, and then the chi-square test and Pearson coefficient were performed for additional analysis. RESULTS The results of the analysis indicated that 54 (85%) of the 63 HIV-infected patients were males who were also HCV positive and who had less than a high school level education. There was a significant association between HCV infection and both occupation (P < 0.0001) and level of education (P < 0.05). All the HIV/HCV coinfected cases had a history of illicit drug use, while 92.6% had a history of imprisonment and 40.7% had high risk sexual contacts. Overall, genotype 1 was found in 75.9% of HCV patients, while genotype 3 was found in 24.1%. Some 94.4% of HCV patients had subtype A. There were no clinical symptoms of chronic hepatitis C. CONCLUSIONS The majority of HIV-infected persons in the city of Kashan were also HCV positive. Genotype 1 was the predominant type, alongside subtype A. Considering the high prevalence of HCV among the HIV-infected persons, as well as the impact of occupation, education, illicit drug use, and imprisonment on the incidence of both infections, health policy makers must introduce health programs and plans to reduce the prevalence of these infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hasan Afzali
- Associate Professor, Department of Infectious Disease, School of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, IR Iran
| | - Mansooreh Momen-Heravi
- Associate Professor, Department of Infectious Disease, Social Determinants of Health (SDH) Research Center, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, IR Iran
- Corresponding Author: Mansooreh Momen-Heravi, Associate Professor, Department of Infectious Disease, Social Determinants of Health (SDH) Research Center, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, IR Iran. Tel: +98-9133611017, E-mail:
| | - Asefeh Farokhzad
- Infectious Disease Specialist, Department of Infectious Disease, School of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, IR Iran
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Mokri A, Chawarski MC, Taherinakhost H, Schottenfeld RS. Medical treatments for opioid use disorder in Iran: a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled comparison of buprenorphine/naloxone and naltrexone maintenance treatment. Addiction 2016; 111:874-82. [PMID: 26639678 DOI: 10.1111/add.13259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2015] [Revised: 11/03/2015] [Accepted: 11/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIMS With the broad goals of developing a clinical research and training program and disseminating effective opioid use disorder treatments in Iran, this pilot clinical trial compared the effectiveness of oral naltrexone (NTX) and sublingual buprenorphine/naloxone (BNX). DESIGN Twelve-week single-site, two-group parallel randomized double-blind clinical trial. SETTING An out-patient clinical research program in Tehran, Iran. PARTICIPANTS Following medically assisted withdrawal, participants with opioid use disorder were assigned randomly to NTX (n = 51) or BNX (n = 51). INTERVENTION Medications were administered three times per week, double-blind, double-dummy for 12 weeks. All participants received weekly group drug counseling. MEASUREMENTS The primary outcome was initial duration of opioid abstinence verified by urine toxicology tests. Secondary outcomes included the number of opioid-negative urine tests, treatment retention and proportions with sustained, verified opioid-abstinence for 12 weeks. FINDINGS Mean [95% confidence interval (CI)] number of days of initial duration of verified abstinence was 28.8 (20.0-37.5) with BNX and 21.6 (14.4-28.7) with NTX (P = 0.205). The mean (95% CI) number of opioid-negative urine tests was 19.7 (17.7-21.6) with BNX and 15.4 (13.1-17.8) with NTX (P = 0.049). The mean (95% CI) number of days in treatment was 70.6 (63.6-77.7) with BNX versus 56.5 (47.8-65.3) with NTX (P = 0.013). The rate of sustained, 12-week opioid abstinence was 16% (8/51) in the BNX group and 8% (4/51) in the NTX group (P = 0.219). CONCLUSIONS Among patients with opioid use disorder in Iran, sublingual buprenorphine/naloxone was associated with a greater number of opioid-negative urine tests and treatment retention than oral naltrexone, but not significantly greater initial abstinence duration or proportions with sustained abstinence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azarakhsh Mokri
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies and Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marek C Chawarski
- Departments of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Hamidreza Taherinakhost
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies and Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Bagheri Amiri F, Mostafavi E, Mirzazadeh A. HIV, HBV and HCV Coinfection Prevalence in Iran--A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0151946. [PMID: 27031352 PMCID: PMC4816272 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0151946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2015] [Accepted: 03/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND worldwide, hepatitis C and B virus infections (HCV and HCV), are the two most common coinfections with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and has become a major threat to the survival of HIV-infected persons. The review aimed to estimate the prevalence of HIV, HBV, HCV, HIV/HCV and HIV/HBV and triple coinfections in different subpopulations in Iran. METHOD Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of reports on prevalence of HIV, HBV, HCV and HIV coinfections in different subpopulations in Iran. We systematically reviewed the literature to identify eligible studies from January 1996 to March 2012 in English or Persian/Farsi databases. We extracted the prevalence of HIV antibodies (diagnosed by Elisa confirmed with Western Blot test), HCV antibodies and HBsAg (with confirmatory laboratory test) as the main primary outcome. We reported the prevalence of the three infections and coinfections as point and 95% confidence intervals. FINDINGS HIV prevalence varied from %0.00 (95% CI: 0.00-0.003) in the general population to %17.25 (95% CI: 2.94-31.57) in people who inject drugs (PWID). HBV prevalence ranged from % 0.00 (95% CI: 0.00-7.87) in health care workers to % 30.9 (95% CI: 27.88-33.92) in PWID. HCV prevalence ranged from %0.19 (95% CI: 0.00-0.66) in health care workers to %51.46 (95% CI: 34.30-68.62) in PWID. The coinfection of HIV/HBV and also HIV/HCV in the general population and in health care workers was zero, while the most common coinfections were HIV/HCV (10.95%), HIV/HBV (1.88%) and triple infections (1.25%) in PWID. CONCLUSIONS We found that PWID are severely and disproportionately affected by HIV and the other two infections, HCV and HBV. Screenings of such coinfections need to be reinforced to prevent new infections and also reduce further transmission in their community and to others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahimeh Bagheri Amiri
- Department of Epidemiology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ehsan Mostafavi
- Department of Epidemiology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
- Research Centre for Emerging and Reemerging infectious diseases, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Akanlu, Kabudar Ahang, Hamadan, Iran
- Regional Knowledge Hub, and WHO Collaborating Centre for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ali Mirzazadeh
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
- Regional Knowledge Hub, and WHO Collaborating Centre for HIV Surveillance, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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Abadie R, Welch-Lazoritz M, Gelpi-Acosta C, Reyes JC, Dombrowski K. Understanding differences in HIV/HCV prevalence according to differentiated risk behaviors in a sample of PWID in rural Puerto Rico. Harm Reduct J 2016; 13:10. [PMID: 26956029 PMCID: PMC4784433 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-016-0099-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2015] [Accepted: 03/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blood contained in needles and injection equipment has been identified as a vector for HIV and HCV transmission among people who inject drugs (PWID). Yet, there is often a wide discrepancy in prevalence for both viruses. While microbiological differences between viruses influence prevalence, other variables associated with the way drugs are acquired and used, also play a role. METHODS Respondent-driven sampling (RDS) methods recruited a sample of 315 current intravenous drug users in rural Puerto Rico. Information about type and frequency of use, HIV and HVC risk behaviors (sharing needles, cookers, cotton, and water), sexual behaviors, and alcohol use was collected. HIV and HCV statuses were assessed via rapid antibody tests. T tests compare means of participants who tested positive (reactive) to those who tested negative. Logistic regression analyses were used to validate the association of the risk factors involved. RESULTS Tests showed a significant difference in HIV (6%) and HCV (78.4%) prevalence among a population of current PWID. The main risk behaviors in HCV transmission are the sharing of injection "works", (e.g., cookers, cotton, and water). Sharing works occurred more than twice as often as the sharing of needles, and HCV+ and HCV- individuals reported the same needle sharing habits. CONCLUSIONS Washing and rinsing injection works with water seems to prevent HIV transmission, but it is unable to prevent HCV infection. While education about the need to clean injection equipment with bleach might be beneficial, equipment sharing--and the subsequent risk of HVC--might be unavoidable in a context where participants are forced to pool resources to acquire and use intravenous drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Abadie
- Department of Sociology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 206 Benton Hall, Lincoln, NE, 68588, USA.
| | - Melissa Welch-Lazoritz
- Department of Sociology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 206 Benton Hall, Lincoln, NE, 68588, USA.
| | - Camila Gelpi-Acosta
- Social Science Department, LaGuardia Community College, 31-10 Thomson Ave., Long Island City, NY, 11101, USA.
| | - Juan Carlos Reyes
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Puerto Rico, 365067, San Juan, PR, 00936, USA.
| | - Kirk Dombrowski
- Department of Sociology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 206 Benton Hall, Lincoln, NE, 68588, USA.
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Melhem NM, Rahhal N, Charide R, Kreidieh K, El-Khatib R. Human immunodeficiency virus and viral hepatitis among high-risk groups: Understanding the knowledge gap in the Middle East and North Africa Region. World J Hepatol 2015; 7:2619-30. [PMID: 26557955 PMCID: PMC4635148 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v7.i25.2619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Revised: 09/26/2015] [Accepted: 10/23/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To identify gaps in the existing knowledge on single, dual and triple infections of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region among men who have sex with men (MSMs), female sex workers (FSWs), injecting drug users (IDUs) and prisoners. METHODS We performed an extensive literature search on articles published on the topic in the 25 countries of the MENA region. PubMed database was used as the main search engine. Case reports, case series, qualitative studies, editorials, commentaries, authors' replies and animal studies were excluded. Original articles and reviews dealing with the prevalence of HIV, HBV and HCV and their co-infection were included. Data on population type, sample size, age and markers of infections were extracted from the relevant studies. RESULTS HIV, HBV and HCV are blood-borne viruses with similar modes of transmission. The categories of people at high risk of acquiring HIV-1, HBV and HCV commonly include: MSMs, FSW and IDUs. It is well established that HIV-positive individuals co-infected with HBV or HCV suffer from liver pathology associated with morbidity and mortality. Moreover, HIV-infected individuals do not respond well to treatment for HBV or HCV and hence are at increased risk of hepatic toxicity. Consequently, co-infection of HIV-positive individuals with HBV and/or HCV is a global health problem of significant magnitude. Our review reveals the paucity of epidemiological data for key populations in many countries of the region. Limited number of studies exists in the MENA region on the status of HIV, HBV and HCV and their co-infections among prisoners, MSMs and FSWs. Evidence support the continued increase of the HIV epidemic among MSMs. In addition to the lack of studies on MSMs and FSWs in the MENA region, our review highlights the lack of data on the practices, characteristics, or the status of HIV infection and viral hepatitis among male sex workers selling or exchanging sex for money. CONCLUSION The MENA countries are in urgent need of advanced research and strengthening of the data collection systems and reporting practices of these infections among key populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nada M Melhem
- Nada M Melhem, Khalil Kreidieh, Rolla El-Khatib, Medical Laboratory Sciences Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107-2020, Lebanon
| | - Nour Rahhal
- Nada M Melhem, Khalil Kreidieh, Rolla El-Khatib, Medical Laboratory Sciences Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107-2020, Lebanon
| | - Rana Charide
- Nada M Melhem, Khalil Kreidieh, Rolla El-Khatib, Medical Laboratory Sciences Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107-2020, Lebanon
| | - Khalil Kreidieh
- Nada M Melhem, Khalil Kreidieh, Rolla El-Khatib, Medical Laboratory Sciences Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107-2020, Lebanon
| | - Rolla El-Khatib
- Nada M Melhem, Khalil Kreidieh, Rolla El-Khatib, Medical Laboratory Sciences Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107-2020, Lebanon
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Malekinejad M, Navadeh S, Lotfizadeh A, Rahimi-Movaghar A, Amin-Esmaeili M, Noroozi A. High hepatitis C virus prevalence among drug users in Iran: systematic review and meta-analysis of epidemiological evidence (2001-2012). Int J Infect Dis 2015; 40:116-30. [PMID: 26460088 PMCID: PMC8741151 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2015.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2015] [Revised: 09/26/2015] [Accepted: 09/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Drug users, particularly drug injectors, are at elevated risk of blood-borne diseases. This study systematically reviewed the prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) mono-infection and its co-infections with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) in drug users in Iran. METHODS Searches were conducted in international, regional, and Iranian databases. Documents were screened, data extracted, and pooled point prevalence and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. RESULTS Overall, 13,821 subjects (87.4% male) with an average age of 32.4 years (95% CI 31-33 years) from 24 original studies were included in the analysis. The pooled HCV prevalence (95% CI) among drug users with and without an injection history was 45% (37-54%) and 8% (4-13%), respectively. The pooled HCV prevalences (95% CI) among individuals with vs. without a history of imprisonment and needle sharing were 58% (39-77%) vs. 44% (20-68%) and 56% (41-71%) vs. 49% (26-71%), respectively. The prevalence of HCV/HIV co-infection among injectors was 11% (95% CI 5-16%). CONCLUSIONS HCV prevalence is high in drug users in Iran, especially among those with a history of injection drug use, needle sharing, and imprisonment. Drug user-focused HCV prevention and treatment programs are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsen Malekinejad
- Phillip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA; Global Health Sciences, University of California, 3333 California Street, Suite 265, San Francisco, CA 94118, USA.
| | - Soodabeh Navadeh
- Global Health Sciences, University of California, 3333 California Street, Suite 265, San Francisco, CA 94118, USA; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Lotfizadeh
- Phillip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Afarin Rahimi-Movaghar
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Amin-Esmaeili
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS (IRCHA), Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Noroozi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Taherkhani R, Farshadpour F. Epidemiology of hepatitis C virus in Iran. World J Gastroenterol 2015; 21:10790-810. [PMID: 26478671 PMCID: PMC4600581 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v21.i38.10790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2015] [Revised: 05/20/2015] [Accepted: 08/31/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In Iran, the prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is relatively low according to the population-based epidemiological studies. However, the epidemiology of HCV is changing and the rate of HCV infection is increasing due to the growth in the number of injecting drug users in the society. In addition, a shift has occurred in the distribution pattern of HCV genotypes among HCV-infected patients in Iran. Genotype 1a is the most prevalent genotype in Iran, but in recent years, an increase in the frequency of 3a and a decrease in 1a and 1b have been reported. These variations in the epidemiology of HCV reflect differences in the routes of transmission, status of public health, lifestyles, and risk factors in different groups and geographic regions of Iran. Health policy makers should consider these differences to establish better strategies for control and prevention of HCV infection. Therefore, this review was conducted to present a clear view regarding the current epidemiology of HCV infection in Iran.
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Rahimi-Movaghar A, Amin-Esmaeili M, Shadloo B, Malekinejad M. Transition to injecting drug use in Iran: A systematic review of qualitative and quantitative evidence. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2015; 26:808-19. [PMID: 26210009 PMCID: PMC4625838 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2015.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2014] [Revised: 02/19/2015] [Accepted: 04/07/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Injection drug use, a behavior associated with significant adverse health effects, has been increasing over the past decade in Iran. This study aims to systematically review the epidemiological and qualitative evidence on factors that facilitate or protect the transition to injection drug use in Iran. METHODS We conducted electronic searches in five international (Medline, Web of Science, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO), one regional (IMEMR) and three Iranian (Iranmedex, Iranpsych, IranDoc) databases, as well as contacting experts in the field. Two trained researchers screened documents to identify relevant studies and independently dual-extracted data following pre-specified protocol. We applied principles of thematic analysis for qualitative data and applied a random effect meta-analysis model for age of first injection. RESULTS A total of 38 documents from 31 studies met eligibility criteria, from which more than 50% were implemented from 2006 to 2008. The weighted mean age of first injection was 25.8 (95% Confidence Interval: 25.3-26.2). Between 1998 and 2011, the age of first injection was relatively stable. Overall, drug users had used drugs for 6-7 years before they started injection use. Heroin was the first drug of injection in the majority of the cases. We identified factors influencing the initiation of or transition to injection use at various levels, including: (1) individual (pleasure-seeking behavior, curiosity and development of drug dependency commonly reported), (2) social and environmental (role of peer drug users in the first injection use, the economic efficiency associated with injections and the wide availability of injectable form of drugs in the market). CONCLUSION Harm reduction policies in Iran have almost exclusively focused on drug injectors in Iran. However, given the extent of the non-injection drug use epidemic, evidence from this study can provide insight on points of interventions for the prevention of the transition to injection use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afarin Rahimi-Movaghar
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Address: Address: No. 669, South Karegar Ave., Tehran, Iran, Postal Code: 1336616357
| | - Masoumeh Amin-Esmaeili
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS (IRCHA), Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Address: Imam Khomeini Hospital, Keshavarz Blvd., Tehran, Iran, Postal code: 14197-33141
| | - Behrang Shadloo
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS (IRCHA), Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Address: Imam Khomeini Hospital, Keshavarz Blvd., Tehran, Iran, Postal code: 14197-33141
| | - Mohsen Malekinejad
- Depaertment of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Global Health Sciences, University of California San Francisco, Address: 3333 California Street, Suite 265, San Francisco, CA 94118, USA
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Mumtaz GR, Weiss HA, Vickerman P, Larke N, Abu-Raddad LJ. Using hepatitis C prevalence to estimate HIV epidemic potential among people who inject drugs in the Middle East and North Africa. AIDS 2015; 29:1701-10. [PMID: 26372281 PMCID: PMC4541475 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000000761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2014] [Revised: 05/26/2015] [Accepted: 05/28/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objective of this study is to understand the association between HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV) among people who inject drugs (PWIDs) in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), and to estimate HIV epidemic potential among PWIDs using HCV prevalence. DESIGN/METHODS Using data from a systematic review of HIV and HCV among PWID in MENA, we conducted two analyses, stratified by HIV epidemic state: a meta-analysis of the risk ratio of HCV to HIV prevalence (RRHCV/HIV) using DerSimonian-Laird random-effects models, and multivariable linear regression predicting log HIV prevalence. The HCV-HIV association from both analyses was used to estimate HIV prevalence at endemic equilibrium. We compared predicted with current HIV prevalence to classify HIV epidemic potential at country-level as low, medium or high, using predefined criteria. RESULTS The review identified 88 HCV prevalence measures among PWID in MENA, of which 54 had a paired HIV prevalence measure. The pooled RRHCV/HIV were 16, 4 and 3 in low-level, emerging and established HIV epidemics, respectively. There was a significant linear relationship between HCV and HIV at endemic equilibrium (P = 0.002). The predicted endemic HIV prevalence ranged between 8% (Tunisia) and 22% (Pakistan). Of the nine countries with data, five have high and three medium HIV epidemic potential. Only one country, Pakistan, appears to have reached saturation. CONCLUSION HCV prevalence could be a predictor of future endemic HIV prevalence. In MENA, we predict that there will be further HIV epidemic growth among PWID. The proposed methodology can identify PWID populations that should be prioritized for HIV prevention interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghina R. Mumtaz
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medical College - Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar
- MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London
| | - Helen A. Weiss
- MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London
| | - Peter Vickerman
- School of Social and Community Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Natasha Larke
- MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London
| | - Laith J. Abu-Raddad
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medical College - Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Healthcare Policy and Research, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Institute, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, USA
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Malekinejad M, Mohraz M, Razani N, Akbari G, McFarland W, Khairandish P, Malekafzali H, Gouya MM, Zarghami A, Rutherford GW. High HIV prevalence in a respondent-driven sampling survey of injection drug users in Tehran, Iran. AIDS Behav 2015; 19:440-9. [PMID: 25280446 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-014-0904-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Iran is facing unprecedented dual drug use and HIV epidemics. We conducted a cross-sectional survey to obtain HIV prevalence and risk behavior data from injection drug users (IDU) in Tehran. We used respondent-driven sampling (RDS) to recruit IDU through successive waves starting with 24 "seeds," conducted anonymous face-to-face interviews and HIV testing and counseling, and used RDSAT to adjust data. During 44 weeks, 1,726 study referral coupons resulted in 645 (37 %) IDU referrals, of whom 548 (85 %) were enrolled. From those enrolled, 84 % were incarcerated, 47 % employed, 55 % single, 27 % under 30 years of age, and 26 % homeless. The adjusted HIV prevalence was 26.6 % (95 % confidence interval 21.3-32.1), and was higher among certain IDU subgroups (e.g., those who sharing injection paraphernalia). Our estimates of HIV prevalence were higher than some other estimates; however, repeated surveys using similar methodology are needed to monitor the trend of HIV epidemic over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsen Malekinejad
- Institute for Health Policy Studies, University of California, 3333 California Street, Suite 265, San Francisco, CA, 94118, USA,
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Mumtaz GR, Weiss HA, Thomas SL, Riome S, Setayesh H, Riedner G, Semini I, Tawil O, Akala FA, Wilson D, Abu-Raddad LJ. HIV among people who inject drugs in the Middle East and North Africa: systematic review and data synthesis. PLoS Med 2014; 11:e1001663. [PMID: 24937136 PMCID: PMC4061009 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1001663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2013] [Accepted: 05/08/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is perceived that little is known about the epidemiology of HIV infection among people who inject drugs (PWID) in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). The primary objective of this study was to assess the status of the HIV epidemic among PWID in MENA by describing HIV prevalence and incidence. Secondary objectives were to describe the risk behavior environment and the HIV epidemic potential among PWID, and to estimate the prevalence of injecting drug use in MENA. METHODS AND FINDINGS This was a systematic review following the PRISMA guidelines and covering 23 MENA countries. PubMed, Embase, regional and international databases, as well as country-level reports were searched up to December 16, 2013. Primary studies reporting (1) the prevalence/incidence of HIV, other sexually transmitted infections, or hepatitis C virus (HCV) among PWIDs; or (2) the prevalence of injecting or sexual risk behaviors, or HIV knowledge among PWID; or (3) the number/proportion of PWID in MENA countries, were eligible for inclusion. The quality, quantity, and geographic coverage of the data were assessed at country level. Risk of bias in predefined quality domains was described to assess the quality of available HIV prevalence measures. After multiple level screening, 192 eligible reports were included in the review. There were 197 HIV prevalence measures on a total of 58,241 PWID extracted from reports, and an additional 226 HIV prevalence measures extracted from the databases. We estimated that there are 626,000 PWID in MENA (range: 335,000-1,635,000, prevalence of 0.24 per 100 adults). We found evidence of HIV epidemics among PWID in at least one-third of MENA countries, most of which are emerging concentrated epidemics and with HIV prevalence overall in the range of 10%-15%. Some of the epidemics have however already reached considerable levels including some of the highest HIV prevalence among PWID globally (87.1% in Tripoli, Libya). The relatively high prevalence of sharing needles/syringes (18%-28% in the last injection), the low levels of condom use (20%-54% ever condom use), the high levels of having sex with sex workers and of men having sex with men (15%-30% and 2%-10% in the last year, respectively), and of selling sex (5%-29% in the last year), indicate a high injecting and sexual risk environment. The prevalence of HCV (31%-64%) and of sexually transmitted infections suggest high levels of risk behavior indicative of the potential for more and larger HIV epidemics. CONCLUSIONS Our study identified a large volume of HIV-related biological and behavioral data among PWID in the MENA region. The coverage and quality of the data varied between countries. There is robust evidence for HIV epidemics among PWID in multiple countries, most of which have emerged within the last decade and continue to grow. The lack of sufficient evidence in some MENA countries does not preclude the possibility of hidden epidemics among PWID in these settings. With the HIV epidemic among PWID in overall a relatively early phase, there is a window of opportunity for prevention that should not be missed through the provision of comprehensive programs, including scale-up of harm reduction services and expansion of surveillance systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghina R. Mumtaz
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medical College - Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Helen A. Weiss
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sara L. Thomas
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Suzanne Riome
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medical College - Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hamidreza Setayesh
- Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS Regional Support Team, Middle East and North Africa, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Gabriele Riedner
- Regional Office of the Eastern Mediterranean, World Health Organization, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Iris Semini
- Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS Regional Support Team, Middle East and North Africa, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Oussama Tawil
- Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS Regional Support Team, Middle East and North Africa, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Francisca Ayodeji Akala
- Human Development Sector, Middle East and North Africa Region, World Bank, Washington (D.C.), United States of America
| | - David Wilson
- Global HIV/AIDS Program, World Bank, Washington (D.C.), United States of America
| | - Laith J. Abu-Raddad
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology Group, Weill Cornell Medical College - Qatar, Cornell University, Qatar Foundation - Education City, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Healthcare Policy and Research, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University, New York, New York, United States of America
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
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Alizadeh S, Pakzad I, Sayehmiri K, Pakzad R, Darvishi P. Prevalence of Hepatitis B among Blood Donors in Iran: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.3923/ajbs.2014.35.46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Javanbakht M, Mirahmadizadeh A, Mashayekhi A. The long-term effectiveness of methadone maintenance treatment in prevention of hepatitis C virus among illicit drug users: a modeling study. IRANIAN RED CRESCENT MEDICAL JOURNAL 2014; 16:e13484. [PMID: 24719731 PMCID: PMC3965864 DOI: 10.5812/ircmj.13484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2013] [Revised: 09/06/2013] [Accepted: 10/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Background: Chronic infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) is increasingly recognized as a major global health problem. Illicit injection drug use is an important risk factor for the rising hepatitis C virus (HCV) prevalence in IR Iran. Objectives: The objective of this study was to determine the long-term effectiveness (total quality adjusted life years (QALYs) gained) of methadone maintenance treatment (MMT program) in prevention of HCV infection among injecting drug users (IDUs). Materials and Methods: A number of Markov models were developed to model morbidity and mortality among IDUs. The input data used in modeling were collected by a self-reported method from 259 IDUs before registration and one year after MMT and also from previous studies. One way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were done to show the effects of uncertainty in parameters on number of life years and QALYs saved. The expected consequences were estimated using a life-time time horizon for the two strategies including implementation and not implementation of the MMT program. Results: Our model estimated that total number of discounted life years lived per IDU with and without the MMT program would be 5.15 (5.05 - 5.25) and 4.63 (4.42 - 4.81), respectively. The model also estimated that total number of discounted QALYs lived per IDU with and without the MMT program would be 4.11 (3.86 - 4.41) and 2.45 (2.17 - 2.84). Simulation results indicated that all differences in life years and QALYs lived between the two strategies were statistically significant (p < 0.001). Based on our model, total discounted life years and QALYs saved in a cohort of 1000 IDUs were 1790 (1520 - 2090) and 1590 (1090- 2090), respectively. Conclusions: Considering the high prevalence of illicit injecting drug use in Iran and MMT effectiveness in prevention of HCV infection, it is necessary to develop MMT centers at regional and national levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Javanbakht
- Health Economics Research Unit, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran
| | | | - Atefeh Mashayekhi
- Health Management and Economics Research Center, School of Health Management and Information Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran
- Corresponding Author: Atefeh Mashayekhi, Health Management and Economics Research Center, School of Health Management and Information Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran. Tel: +98-2144017935, Fax: +98-2144017935, E-mail:
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Assari S, Ahmadi K, Rezazade M. Socio-Economic Status Determines Risk of Receptive Syringe Sharing Behaviors among Iranian Drug Injectors; A National Study. Front Psychiatry 2014; 5:194. [PMID: 25852577 PMCID: PMC4369970 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2014.00194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2013] [Accepted: 12/16/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although needle and syringe sharing is one of the main routs of transmission of HIV in several countries in the middle east, very little is known about how socio-economic status of injecting drug users (IDUs) is linked to the receptive syringe sharing behaviors in these countries. AIM To study socio-economic correlates of receptive needle and syringe sharing among IDUs in Iran. METHODS The study used data from the Unhide Risk Study, a national survey of IDUs. This study sampled 636 IDUs (91% male) via snowball sampling from eight provinces in Iran in 2009. Socio-demographic and drug use characteristics were collected. We used a logistic regression to determine factors associated with receptive needle and syringe sharing during the past 6 months. RESULTS From 636 IDUs enrolled in this study, 68% (n = 434) reported receptive needle and syringe sharing behaviors in the past 6 months. Odds of receptive needle and syringe sharing in the past 6 months was lower among IDUs who were male [odds ratios (OR) = 0.29, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.12-0.70], had higher education (OR = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.64-0.86) but higher among those who were unemployed (OR = 4.05, 95% CI = 1.50-10.94), and were single (OR = 1.47, 95% CI = 1.02-2.11). CONCLUSION This study presented factors associated with risk of receptive needle and syringe sharing among Iranian IDUs. This information may be used for HIV prevention and harm reduction purposes. Socio-economic status of Iranian IDUs may be closely linked to high-risk injecting behaviors among them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shervin Assari
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Michigan , Ann Arbor, MI , USA ; Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture, and Health (CRECH), School of Public Health, University of Michigan , Ann Arbor, MI , USA ; Social Determinants of Health Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation , Tehran , Iran
| | - Khodabakhsh Ahmadi
- Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran
| | - Majid Rezazade
- AIDS Prevention and Control Committee of Welfare Organization State , Tehran , Iran
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Outcome assessment of a triangular clinic as a harm reduction intervention in Rajaee-Shahr Prison, Iran. Harm Reduct J 2013; 10:41. [PMID: 24369092 PMCID: PMC3883467 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7517-10-41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2011] [Accepted: 12/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Transmission of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) among incarcerated injection drug users (IDU) is a health epidemic in the Islamic Republic of Iran. Triangular clinics (TCs) were established in prisons as a harm reduction measure to decrease the risk of HIV transmission and other blood-borne infections. The objective of this study was to assess the immediate outcomes of one TC among male IDUs in Iran’s Rajaee-Shahr prison. Methods This study was conducted in two stages between 2003 and 2005. In the preparatory stage, focus group data was collected to update the prison’s TC education and medical interventions and construct the self-report questionnaire. In stage two, 150 male IDUs were recruited in a closed cohort study design to assess the immediate outcome of the TC. Participants were measured at baseline and followed up to six months to measure their drug use, attitude toward and knowledge of high risk behaviours, serological conversion for HIV, HBV and HCV, and engagement in risky behaviors. The TC outcomes were determined through random urine analysis testing, a self-administered questionnaire and behaviour report cards, and viral infection testing. Results The findings of the urine analyses indicated a minimal yet consistent decrease in drug use over the six months. The pre and post- self-administered questionnaire data relayed a modest change in IDU risky behaviours associated with sexual practices; this was greater in comparison to the knowledge and attitude measures. It was determined that age may have a detrimental effect as may viral infections (HIV and HBV) on knowledge, attitude and behavior change. Both education and employment may have a protective effect. Data collected from the self-report behaviour cards similarly showed a modest reduction in high risk practices. At the six month follow-up, only one case became HIV positive, 9 HCV and 17 HBV. Conclusions Considering that HIV is concentrated among Iranian prisoners who inject drugs at a high level, the results of this study indicate that TCs are a possible effective intervention. However, many prisoners continued with risky behaviors even if they were participating in harm reduction measures, such as methadone maintenance therapy.
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Honarvar B, Odoomi N, Moghadami M, Afsar Kazerooni P, Hassanabadi A, Zare Dolatabadi P, Farzanfar E, Bagheri Lankarani K. Blood-borne hepatitis in opiate users in iran: a poor outlook and urgent need to change nationwide screening policy. PLoS One 2013; 8:e82230. [PMID: 24312645 PMCID: PMC3846675 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0082230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2013] [Accepted: 10/21/2013] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Iran has the highest rate of opiate use worldwide. However, most opiate users are not screened for hepatitis virus infections. This study aimed to provide accurate, detailed data on the size of the opiate user population at risk of developing these infections. Method This seroprevalence study was conducted in the city of Shiraz, southern Iran. All participants were screened for HBV, HCV and HIV infection. The data were analyzed with SPSS. Result Among 569 participants, 233 (40.9%) were injection drug users (IDU), 369 (64.8%) were heterosexual, 84 (14.7%) were bisexual and 15 (2.6%) were homosexual. One hundred nine (19.1%) were HCV antibody-positive, 18 (3.1%) were HBS antigen-positive, 72 (12.6%) were HBc antibody-positive and 23 (4%) were HIV-positive. Among IDU compared to non-IDU, positivity rates for HBS antigen (5.5 vs 1.4%), HBc antibody (22.7 vs 5.6%), HCV antibody (40.3 vs 4.4%) and HIV (7.7 vs 1.4%) were higher (P < 0.05). Most patients with HBV (80.7%) and HCV infection (83.4%) were HIV-negative. In the cumulative analysis, only history of imprisonment was a statistically significant determinant of infection by HCV or HBV in opiate users. Conclusion The current policy of screening only HIV-positive drug users for HBV and HCV in Iran misses most cases of HBV and HCV infection. We therefore recommend urgent revision of the nationwide protocol by the Ministry of Health in Iran to implement routine screening of all opiate users and especially IDU for these viruses, regardless of their HIV status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Behnam Honarvar
- Health Policy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- * E-mail:
| | - Neda Odoomi
- Health Department, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohsen Moghadami
- HIV/AIDS Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Alireza Hassanabadi
- Behavioral Counseling Center, HIV/AIDS Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Ehsan Farzanfar
- Diagnostic Laboratory Sciences and Technology Research Center, School of Paramedical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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HIV/AIDS Among Injecting Drug Users: A review on Epidemiology and Management of Occupational Exposure in Iranian Health Network Setting. Jundishapur J Microbiol 2013. [DOI: 10.5812/jjm.6964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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Alipour A, Haghdoost AA, Sajadi L, Zolala F. HIV prevalence and related risk behaviours among female partners of male injecting drugs users in Iran: results of a bio-behavioural survey, 2010. Sex Transm Infect 2013; 89 Suppl 3:iii41-4. [PMID: 24064986 PMCID: PMC3841763 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2013-051201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Sexual partners of injecting drug users (IDUs) are at high risk of HIV infection, yet data for such populations are scarce worldwide, particularly in the Middle East and North African region. This study measured and compared the prevalence of HIV, hepatitis C (HCV), hepatitis B (HBV) and related behavioural factors in male IDUs (MIDUs), their main female sexual partners who were also injecting drug users (FIDUPs) and their main non-injecting female partners (FNIDUPs). METHOD Using convenience sampling, MIDUs were recruited at drop-in health centres in three cities (Tehran, Mashhad and Shiraz), who in turn recruited their main female partners. Behavioural data were collected using a standard questionnaire, and blood samples were drawn for HIV and HCV antibody testing and HBV surface antigen. RESULTS HIV prevalence was 9.4% (95% CI 2.96% to 26.2%) among MIDUs (n=226), 7.7% (95% CI 1.9% to 26.3%) among FIDUPs (n=42) and 2.8% (95% CI 0.65% to 11.3%) among FNIDUPs (n=184). HCV prevalence was 38.6% (95% CI 20.3% to 60.7%) among MIDUs, 36.6% (95% CI 13.6% to 67.9%) among FIDUPs and 8.4% (95% CI 5.67% to 12.4%) among FNIDUPs. HBV surface antigen prevalence was 3.6% (95% CI 1.5% to 8.3%), 7.3% (95% CI 1.9% to 24.8%) and 1.1% (95% CI 0.3% to 4.7%), respectively. Among MIDUs, 19.5% (95% CI 3.4% to 62.2%) had a history of sexual contact with other men. Mean age at first sexual contact in MIDUs was 19.2 years (95% CI 18.6 to 25.2) and in FIDUPs and FNIDUPs 16.4 years (95% CI 14.1 to 22.1) and 18.2 years (95% CI 15.7 to 23.1), respectively. FIDUPs and FNIDUPs had a higher mean number of sexual partners (other than their main partner) in the previous month than MIDUs (5.5 (95% CI 0 to 14.1) and 2.5 (95% CI 1.1 to 4) vs 1.3 (95% CI 0.37 to 2.2), respectively). FIDUPs tended to use drugs before or during sex with their main and casual partners more often than MIDUs (with main partner: 69% (95% CI 41.5% to 87.5%) vs 54.4% (95% CI 27% to 79.4%), respectively, and with casual partners: 47.6% (95% CI 13.1% to 84.6%) vs 34.1% (95% CI 10% to 70.6%), respectively); however, the differences were not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS Female partners of MIDUs in Iran and elsewhere are an under studied group. The high rate of HIV, HCV and HBV infection among females who are partners of MIDUs points to the necessity of appropriate injection and sexual risk reduction interventions among this group, to prevent acquisition of HIV, HCV and HBV and their onward transmission to other male partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbas Alipour
- Social Medicine Department, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, , Sari, Iran
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Davarpanah MA, Khademolhosseini F, Rajaeefard A, Tavassoli A, Yazdanfar SK, Rezaianzadeh A. Hepatitis C Virus Infection in HIV Positive Attendees of Shiraz Behavioral Diseases Consultation Center in Southern Iran. Indian J Community Med 2013; 38:86-91. [PMID: 23878420 PMCID: PMC3714947 DOI: 10.4103/0970-0218.112437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2010] [Accepted: 07/13/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the prevalence of HCV co-infection and its correlation with demographic and risk factors among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected individuals attending Shiraz behavioral diseases consultation (SBDC) Center in southern Iran. MATERIALS AND METHODS In a cross-sectional study, 226 consecutive HIV-positive patients who referred to SBDC Center from April 2006 to March 2007 were interviewed face-to-face to record demographic data and risk factors of HIV transmission. A 10ml sample of venous blood was drawn from every subject and tested for HCV-antibodies by third generation enzyme linked immunosorbant (ELISA) and recombinant immunoblot assays (RIBA). All samples were also analyzed by qualitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for detection of HCV-RNA. RESULTS The study population consisted of 214 men (94.7%) and 12 women (5.3%) with a mean age of 35.6 ± 7.9 years. The most prevalent risk factor was imprisonment (88.9%) followed by injecting drug use (79.2%). The prevalence of HCV infection was 88.5% by ELISA and 86.7% by RIBA, while HCV viremia was detected in 26.1% of the patients. HCV-antibody positivity was significantly associated with gender, age, marital status, occupation, injecting drug use, and history of imprisonment. It was inversely related to having an infected or high risk sexual partner. In the logistic regression model, the predictors of HCV-positivity were injecting drug use (OR = 24.9, P = 0.004) and imprisonment (OR = 21.4, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Prevalence of HCV infection among HIV-positive individuals in our region is very high and there is a need for stricter preventive actions against transmission of HCV among this group of patients.
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Reduction in Prevalence of Hepatitis B Surface Antigen Among Intravenous Drug Users in Tehran Drop-in-Centers. ARCHIVES OF CLINICAL INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2013. [DOI: 10.5812/archcid.15531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Mohammad Nejad E, Ehsani SR, Rabirad N, Deljo R, Ranjbarn S, Rezaee S, Tamizi Z. Prevalence of HBV in HIV Patients Referred to Imam Khomeini Hospital, Tehran, Iran from 2008-2010. IRANIAN RED CRESCENT MEDICAL JOURNAL 2013; 15:379-380. [PMID: 24083020 PMCID: PMC3785921 DOI: 10.5812/ircmj.4883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2012] [Revised: 07/16/2012] [Accepted: 01/08/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Esmaeil Mohammad Nejad
- Department of Nursing, International Branch, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran
| | - Seyyedeh Roghayeh Ehsani
- Imam Khomeini Clinical and Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran
| | - Narmela Rabirad
- Department of Hospital Infections, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran
| | - Roghayeh Deljo
- Imam Khomeini Clinical and Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran
| | - Simin Ranjbarn
- Imam Khomeini Clinical and Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran
| | - Shadi Rezaee
- Department of Hospital Infection Control, Farabi Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran
| | - Zahra Tamizi
- Department of Hospital Infection Control, Razi Hospital, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation, Tehran, IR Iran
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Alam Mehrjerdi Z, Noroozi A. An emerging trend of methamphetamine injection in iran: a critical target for research on blood-borne infection diseases. HEPATITIS MONTHLY 2013; 13:e8154. [PMID: 23658591 PMCID: PMC3644422 DOI: 10.5812/hepatmon.8154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2012] [Revised: 10/01/2012] [Accepted: 10/16/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Alam Mehrjerdi
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran
- Corresponding author: Zahra Alam Mehrjerdi, Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), Tehran University of Medical Sciences. No.669, South Karegar Ave, 1336616357, Tehran, IR Iran. Tel.: +98-2155421177, Fax: +98-2155421177, E-mail:
| | - Alireza Noroozi
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies (INCAS), School of Advanced Medical Technologies (SAMT), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran
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Min JA, Yoon Y, Lee HJ, Choi J, Kwon M, Kim K, Lee CU, Kim DJ, Yun H. Prevalence and associated clinical characteristics of hepatitis B, C, and HIV infections among injecting drug users in Korea. J Med Virol 2013; 85:575-82. [PMID: 23364858 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.23523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/05/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Injecting drug use is associated with an increased risk of blood-borne viral infections, such as hepatitis B and C viruses (HBV and HCV, respectively) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). However, their prevalence, virological characteristics, and associated factors are not clear among the injecting drug users in Korea. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of HBV, HCV, and HIV infection, as well as their virological and clinical characteristics of injecting drug users in South Korea. Between 2007 and 2010, 318 injecting drug users (89.3% male; mean ± age 41.9 ± 8.15 years) were participated. While HIV infection was not found, the seroprevalence of anti-HCV and HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) was 48.4% (n = 154) and 6.6% (n = 21), respectively. HBV/HCV co-infection was found in 4.1% (n = 13). Occult HBV infection was suggested in 5.0% (n = 16). Among the HCV genotypes, 1b (37.7%) and 2a/2c (35.7%) were mostly often detected. HCV RNA was detected in 98.1% (n = 151/154) and high-level viremia (HCV RNA level, ≥400,000 IU/ml) were observed in 59.6% (n = 90/151). In multiple logistic regression analysis, old age (OR 1.18 per year, 95% CI = 1.09-1.27) and ever-sharing injecting equipment (OR 4.17, 95% CI = 1.39-12.45) independently predicted HCV mono-infection. The prevalence of HBV and HCV infection were high but largely undiagnosed in the present sample of Korean injecting drug users. Strategic prevention, screening, and treatment are needed to reduce further transmission and morbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung-Ah Min
- Department of Psychiatry, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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