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Waddell CJ, Pellegrini GJ, Persad N, Filardo TD, Prasad N, Carson WC, Navarra T, Townsend MB, Satheshkumar PS, Lowe D, Borne D, Okoye N, Janssen J, Bejarano A, Mosites E, Marx GE. Minimally Invasive Blood Collection for an Mpox Serosurvey among People Experiencing Homelessness. J Appl Lab Med 2024:jfae035. [PMID: 38842196 DOI: 10.1093/jalm/jfae035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People experiencing homelessness (PEH) are underrepresented in public health and clinical research. Study methods that can improve participation by this group are needed. METHODS In late 2022, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention conducted an mpox serological survey using venipuncture among PEH in San Francisco, California. Blood collection by a minimally invasive device was offered if venipuncture was not possible or preferred. Participants who had a successful blood draw using the device were asked about device acceptability. RESULTS Of the 209 successful blood collections, 137 (66%) were among participants who underwent venipuncture and 72 (34%) were among participants who used the device. Use of the device increased overall blood collection participation by 53%. Participants reported high acceptability and preference for the device over venipuncture. CONCLUSIONS Minimally invasive blood collection devices may increase participation and representation of PEH in serosurveys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline J Waddell
- Mpox Emergency Response, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Epidemic Intelligence Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Gerald J Pellegrini
- Mpox Emergency Response, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Neela Persad
- Mpox Emergency Response, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Thomas D Filardo
- Mpox Emergency Response, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Epidemic Intelligence Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Namrata Prasad
- Mpox Emergency Response, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Epidemic Intelligence Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - William C Carson
- Mpox Emergency Response, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Terese Navarra
- Mpox Emergency Response, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Michael B Townsend
- Mpox Emergency Response, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | | | - David Lowe
- Mpox Emergency Response, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Deborah Borne
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco City and County Government, CA, United States
| | - Nnenna Okoye
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco City and County Government, CA, United States
| | - Julia Janssen
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco City and County Government, CA, United States
| | - Anamaría Bejarano
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco City and County Government, CA, United States
| | - Emily Mosites
- Mpox Emergency Response, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Grace E Marx
- Mpox Emergency Response, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
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2
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van Oorschot E, Koc ÖM, Oude Lashof AML, van Loo IHM, Ackens R, Posthouwer D, Koek GH. Cascade of care among hepatitis B patients in Maastricht, the Netherlands, 1996 to 2018. J Virus Erad 2022; 8:100075. [PMID: 35784678 PMCID: PMC9241047 DOI: 10.1016/j.jve.2022.100075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background & aims Methods Results Conclusions
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva van Oorschot
- Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Corresponding author. Maastricht UMC+P. Debyelaan 25, 6229, HX, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| | - Özgür M. Koc
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ziekenhuis Oost-Limburg, Genk, Belgium
- Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Astrid ML. Oude Lashof
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Maastricht University Medical Centre, the Netherlands
| | - Inge HM. van Loo
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, the Netherlands
| | - Robin Ackens
- Department of Integrated Care, Maastricht University Medical Centre, the Netherlands
| | - Dirk Posthouwer
- Department of Medical Microbiology, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Maastricht University Medical Centre, the Netherlands
| | - Ger H. Koek
- School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (Nutrim), Maastricht University, the Netherlands
- Department of Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, Klinikum, RWTH, Aachen, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Maastricht University, the Netherlands
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3
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Catlett B, Hajarizadeh B, Cunningham E, Wolfson-Stofko B, Wheeler A, Khandaker-Hussain B, Feld JJ, Martró E, Chevaliez S, Pawlotsky JM, Bharat C, Cunningham PH, Dore GJ, Applegate T, Grebely J. Diagnostic accuracy of assays using point-of-care testing or dried blood spot samples for the determination of HCV RNA: a systematic review. J Infect Dis 2022; 226:1005-1021. [PMID: 35150578 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiac049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fingerstick point-of-care and dried-blood-spot (DBS) HCV RNA testing increases testing uptake and linkage to care. This systematic review evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of point-of-care testing and DBS to detect HCV RNA. METHODS Bibliographic databases and conference presentations were searched for eligible studies. Meta-analysis was used to pool estimates. RESULTS Of 359 articles identified, 43 studies were eligible and included. When comparing the Xpert HCV Viral Load Fingerstick assay to venous blood samples (7 studies with 987 samples), the sensitivity and specificity for HCV RNA detection was 99% (95% CI:98%-100%) and 99% (95% CI:96%-100%) and for HCV RNA quantification was 100% (95% CI:93%-100%) and 100% (95% CI:94%-100%). The proportion of invalid results following Xpert HCV Viral Load Fingerstick testing was 6% (95% CI:3%-11%). When comparing DBS to venous blood samples (28 studies with 3988 samples), the sensitivity and specificity for HCV RNA detection was 97% (95% CI:95%-98%) and 100% (95% CI:98%-100%) and for HCV RNA quantification was 98% (95% CI:96%-99%) and 100% (95% CI:95%-100%). CONCLUSION Excellent diagnostic accuracy was observed across assays for detection of HCV RNA from fingerstick and DBS samples. The proportion of invalid results following Xpert HCV Viral Load Fingerstick testing highlights the importance of operator training and quality assurance programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beth Catlett
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,St Vincent's Centre for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
| | | | | | - Brett Wolfson-Stofko
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | | | - Jordan J Feld
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Elisa Martró
- Microbiology Department, Laboratori Clínic Metropolitana Nord, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias I Pujol, Institut d'Investigació Germans Trias I Pujol (IGTP), Badalona (Barcelona), Spain.,Group 27, Biomedical Research Networking Centre in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Stéphane Chevaliez
- French National Reference Centre for viral hepatitis B, C and delta, Department of Virology, Hôpital Henri Mondor, Université Paris-Est, Créteil, France
| | - Jean-Michel Pawlotsky
- French National Reference Centre for viral hepatitis B, C and delta, Department of Virology, Hôpital Henri Mondor, Université Paris-Est, Créteil, France
| | - Chrianna Bharat
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Philip H Cunningham
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,St Vincent's Centre for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
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Hepatitis C standards of care: A review of good practices since the advent of direct-acting antiviral therapy. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2021; 45:101564. [PMID: 33740477 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2020.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Significant steps must be taken to reduce the global incidence and prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) and mortality from HCV infection to achieve the WHO goal of eliminating viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030. Proper epidemiological surveillance of the full continuum of care is essential for monitoring progress and identifying gaps that need to be addressed. The tools required for elimination have largely been established, and the issue at hand is more how they should best be implemented in different settings around the world. Documenting good practices allows for knowledge exchange to prevent transmission and improve health outcomes for people with HCV. This review found 13 well documented HCV good practices that have become the standard of care or that should become the standard of care as soon as possible. In 2013, highly effective direct-acting antiviral therapy became available, which has cure rates of over 95%. Together with this new therapy, evidence-based good practices can help countries eliminate viral hepatitis C.
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HCV screening based on dried blood samples and linkage to care in people who use drugs: A prospective study. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2021; 92:103134. [PMID: 33517130 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2021.103134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The burden of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection among people who use drugs (PWUDs) is considerable. We aimed to screen for HCV infection using the fingerstick dried blood spot (DBS) test and to describe the cascade of hepatitis C care among PWUDs in Madrid, Spain. We also evaluated the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis D virus (HDV) in this population. METHODS We carried out a prospective study and collected samples and epidemiological data using a mobile unit. Viral infections were tested by immunoassay and RT-PCR assay. PWUDs with a positive result were contacted and referred to a specialized health center to confirm and treat the HCV infection. RESULTS We studied 529 PWUD samples; 49.7% were from persons who had previously used injection drugs (IDUs). Of these, 152 (28.7%) were positive for HCV antibodies, 122 (23.1%) for HCV RNA, 23 (4.3%) for HBsAg, and two (0.4%) for HDV antibodies (8.7% of those with hepatitis B). People who inject drugs (PWID) more frequently had positive HCV antibody titers (52% vs. 7.3%; p<0.001) and a positive HCV RNA test result (40.2% vs. 7.3%; p<0.001) than non-PWID. The time from sample collection to test results was 19 days. The next 104 individuals (85.2%) with active HCV infection were contacted to report their HCV test results. Of these, 63 (51.6%) had an appointment, 62 (50.8%) were evaluated in the hospital, and 56 (45.9%) started HCV therapy. CONCLUSION HCV screening using fingerstick DBS was an excellent tool for determining HCV prevalence and other chronic hepatitis viruses (HBV and HDV) in PWUDs. However, linkage to care was limited, mainly with respect to the initiation of HCV therapy.
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6
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Abstract
The target set by the World Health Organization to eliminate viral hepatitis as a public health problem by 2030 first requires methods of testing for hepatitis B and C virus that are acceptable to diverse populations. One such test is the dried blood spot sample method. This article explains what a dried blood spot sample is, how it is collected, and how it can help increase the viral hepatitis test uptake in prisons, drug and alcohol services, and other populations at risk of hepatitis B or C infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Jack
- Research Fellow and Advanced Virology Nurse Specialist, Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham
| | - William Lucien Irving
- Professor of Virology, Department of Microbiology, Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham
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7
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Evaluation of dried blood spot testing using the Abbott Alinity i. J Clin Virol 2020; 132:104638. [PMID: 33049642 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcv.2020.104638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The West of Scotland Specialist Virology Centre currently uses the Abbott Architect for DBS serology. The new Abbott Alinity i will replace the Architect in our laboratory. In this study, mock and stored patient DBS samples were tested on both platforms and results compared. STUDY DESIGN Mock DBS were made from whole blood where patient results were known (38 negative samples and 141 positive samples; 39 HIV Antigen/Antibody (Ag/Ab), 35 HCV IgG antibody (HCVG), 34 HBV core IgG (HBCG) and 33 HBsAg). Mock DBS were tested on both Abbott platforms. Stored patient DBS samples (132 negative and 263 positive: 9 HIVAg/Ab, 10 HBsAg, 52 HBCG and 60 HCVG) previously tested on the Architect were retested on the Alinity i. RESULTS Mock DBS showed good correlation between the Architect and Alinity i for the HIV Ag/Ab,HBCG and HCVG assays. A poorer correlation occurred with HBsAg, the Alinity i reported HBsAg positives at a lower value compared to the Architect. The coefficient of variation for intra-assay variation was 1.69 % (HIVAg/Ab), 3.25 % (HCVG), 1.68 % (HBsAg) and 1.95 % (HBCG). The sensitivity and specificity was determined based on results from the mock and patient samples. At S/Co cut-off 1.0 both HIV and HBsAg had a sensitivity of 100 %. A cut-off 0.8 gave a sensitivity of 95.83 % (95 % CI 89.67%-98.85%) for HCVG and 0.3 gave a sensitivity of 98.8 % (CI 93.69%-99.97%) for HBCG. DISCUSSION The alinity i compared well against the architect and can be used to test DBS samples.
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8
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Byrne C, Radley A, Inglis SK, Beer LJZ, Palmer N, Pham MD, Healy B, Doyle JS, Donnan P, Dillon JF. Reaching m Ethadone users Attending Community p Harmacies with HCV: an international cluster randomised controlled trial protocol (REACH HCV). BMJ Open 2020; 10:e036501. [PMID: 32868356 PMCID: PMC7462226 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-036501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a global public health threat, and novel models of care are required to treat those currently or previously at highest risk of infection, particularly persons who inject drugs (PWID; ever injected), as conventional healthcare models do not have the reach to deliver cure of HCV to disadvantaged, disproportionately affected communities. In Western Europe and Australasia, it is estimated that HCV affects between 0.4% and 1.0% of the regions' populations, accordingly, it affects between 0.4% and 0.7% of the populations of countries in this study (Scotland, Wales and Australia). Reaching mEthadone users Attending Community pHarmacies with HCV (REACH HCV) will evaluate community pharmacy-based diagnostic outreach and HCV treatment against conventional HCV testing and treatment pathways for clients receiving opioid substitution therapy (OST) in community pharmacies. METHODS AND ANALYSIS REACH HCV is an international multicentre cluster randomised controlled trial with sites in Scotland, Wales and Australia. The sites are community pharmacies which are randomised equally to one of two pathways: the pharmacy intervention pathway or the education-only (control) pathway. Participants are recruited from OST clients in these pharmacies.In the pharmacy intervention pathway, participants receive a rapid point-of-care HCV PCR test in their pharmacy by a study outreach nurse. If positive, direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) are delivered to participants via their pharmacist in line with their OST schedule.In the education-only pathway, pharmacists counsel OST clients on HCV and refer them to the nearest nurse-led clinic or general practitioner offering HCV testing according to standard care protocols. If positive, DAAs are delivered as in the intervention pathway.The primary endpoint for both pathways is sustained viral response at 12 weeks post-treatment . Secondary outcomes are: cost-efficacy by pathway; participants tested by pathway; adherence to therapy by pathway and impact of blood test results on treatment decisions.A statistical analysis plan will be finalised prior to data lock. Analysis will be by intention to treat (ITT) to show superiority. Modified ITT analysis will also be undertaken to explore the steps in the pathways. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The trial received ethical favourable opinion from the East of Scotland Research Ethics Committee 2 (19/ES/0025) for UK sites and approval from the Alfred Hospital Ethics Committee (148/19) for Australian sites and complies with principles of Good Clinical Practice. Final results will be presented in peer-reviewed journals and at relevant conferences. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ClinicalTrials.gov Registry NCT03935906. PROTOCOL VERSION V.4.0-19 March 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Byrne
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Dundee School of Medicine, Dundee, UK
- Tayside Clinical Trials Unit, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Andrew Radley
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Dundee School of Medicine, Dundee, UK
- Directorate of Public Health, National Health Service Tayside, Dundee, UK
| | | | - Lewis J Z Beer
- Tayside Clinical Trials Unit, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Nicki Palmer
- Public Health Wales Department of Microbiology, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | - Minh Duc Pham
- Disease Elimination Programme, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Brendan Healy
- Public Health Wales Department of Microbiology, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | - Joseph S Doyle
- Disease Elimination Programme, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter Donnan
- Dundee Epidemiology and Biostatistics Unit, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - John F Dillon
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Dundee School of Medicine, Dundee, UK
- Department of Gastroenterology, National Health Service Tayside, Dundee, UK
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Catlett B, Bajis S, Starr M, Dore GJ, Hajarizadeh B, Cunningham PH, Applegate TL, Grebely J. Evaluation of the Aptima HCV Quant Dx Assay for Hepatitis C Virus RNA Detection from Fingerstick Capillary Dried Blood Spot and Venepuncture-Collected Samples. J Infect Dis 2020; 223:818-826. [PMID: 32710758 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiaa442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Simplified diagnostic strategies are needed increase hepatitis C virus (HCV) testing to determine active infection and link people into treatment. Collection methods such as dried blood spots (DBS) have advantages over standard phlebotomy, especially within marginalized populations. METHODS We evaluated the diagnostic performance of the Aptima HCV Quant assay for the quantification and detection of HCV RNA from paired DBS and venepuncture samples. Specimens were collected from participants enrolled in an Australian observational study. We compared HCV RNA detection from DBS against venepuncture samples (gold standard). RESULTS One hundred sixty-four participants had paired samples and HCV RNA was detected in 45 (27% [95% confidence interval, 21%-35%]) by the Aptima assay in venepuncture samples. Sensitivity of the Aptima assay for HCV RNA quantification from DBS (≥10 IU/mL in plasma) was 100% and specificity was 100%. Sensitivity for HCV RNA detection from DBS was 95.6% and specificity was 94.1%. A small bias in plasma over DBS was observed with good agreement (R2 = 0.96). CONCLUSIONS The Aptima HCV Quant assay detects active infection from DBS samples with acceptable diagnostic performance and is clinically comparable to plasma. These data will strengthen the case for the registration of a DBS kit insert claim, enabling future clinical utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beth Catlett
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,New South Wales State Reference Laboratory for HIV, St Vincent's Centre for Applied Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sahar Bajis
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mitchell Starr
- New South Wales State Reference Laboratory for HIV, St Vincent's Centre for Applied Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Gregory J Dore
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Philip H Cunningham
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,New South Wales State Reference Laboratory for HIV, St Vincent's Centre for Applied Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Jason Grebely
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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10
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Dried blood spot self-sampling at home is a feasible technique for hepatitis C RNA detection. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0231385. [PMID: 32287293 PMCID: PMC7156069 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0231385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
To facilitate HCV diagnosis, we developed an HCV-RNA testing service, which involved home-sampled dried blood spots (DBS). The main objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of self-sampling at home. Furthermore, to optimise the processing of DBS samples for RNA detection, we evaluated two elution buffers: phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) and L6-buffer. 27 HCV-RNA and 12 HIV-1 RNA positive patients were included. Laboratory spotted DBS (LabDBS) were made by a technician from blood samples drawn at inclusion. Patients received a DBS home-sampling kit and were requested to return their self-sampled DBS (ssDBS) by mail. We compared the RNA load of PBS and L6-eluted labDBS, and of L6-eluted ssDBS, L6-eluted labDBS and plasma. LabDBS load measurements were repeated after 7–13 and 14–21 days to evaluate RNA stability. All 39 plasma samples provided quantifiable RNA loads. In 1/39 labDBS sample, RNA could not be detected (plasma HCV load: 2.98 log10 IU/ml). L6-eluted samples gave a 0.7 log10 and 0.6 log10 higher viral load for HCV and HIV-1 respectively, compared to PBS-eluted samples. Strong correlations were found between labDBS and ssDBS HCV RNA (r = 0.833; mean difference 0.3 log10 IU/mL) and HIV-1 RNA results (r = 0.857; mean difference 0.1 log10 copies/mL). Correlations between labDBS and plasma values were high for HCV (r = 0.958) and HIV-1 (r = 0.844). RNA loads in DBS remained stable over 21 days. Our study demonstrates that self-sampling dried blood spots at home is a feasible strategy for the detection of HCV and HIV-1 RNA. This could facilitate one-step diagnostics and treatment monitoring in communities with high HCV prevalence.
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11
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Mason LMK, Veldhuijzen IK, Duffell E, van Ahee A, Bunge EM, Amato‐Gauci AJ, Tavoschi L. Hepatitis B and C testing strategies in healthcare and community settings in the EU/EEA: A systematic review. J Viral Hepat 2019; 26:1431-1453. [PMID: 31332919 PMCID: PMC6899601 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Revised: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
An estimated 9 million individuals are chronically infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) across the European Union/European Economic Area (EU/EEA), many of which are yet to be diagnosed. We performed a systematic review to identify interventions effective at improving testing offer and uptake in the EU/EEA. Original research articles published between 1 January 2008 and 1 September 2017 were retrieved from PubMed and EMBASE. Search strings combined terms for HBV/HCV, intervention, testing and geographic terms (EU/EEA). Out of 8331 records retrieved, 93 studies were selected. Included studies reported on testing initiatives in primary health care (9), hospital (12), other healthcare settings (31) and community settings (41). Testing initiatives targeted population groups such as migrants, drug users, prisoners, pregnant women and the general population. Testing targeted to populations at higher risk yielded high coverage rates in many settings. Implementation of novel testing approaches, including dried blood spot (DBS) testing, was associated with increased coverage in several settings including drug services, pharmacies and STI clinics. Community-based testing services were effective in reaching populations at higher risk for infection, vulnerable and hard-to-reach populations. In conclusion, our review identified several successful testing approaches implemented in healthcare and community settings, including testing approaches targeting groups at higher risk, community-based testing services and DBS testing. Combining a diverse set of testing opportunities within national testing strategies may lead to higher impact both in terms of testing coverage and in terms of reduction, on the undiagnosed fraction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Irene K. Veldhuijzen
- The Netherlands National Institute for Public Health and the EnvironmentBilthovenThe Netherlands
| | - Erika Duffell
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and ControlStockholmSweden
| | - Ayla van Ahee
- Pallas Health Research and Consultancy B.V.RotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Eveline M. Bunge
- Pallas Health Research and Consultancy B.V.RotterdamThe Netherlands
| | | | - Lara Tavoschi
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and ControlStockholmSweden
- Present address:
University of PisaPisaItaly
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Litwin AH, Jost J, Wagner K, Heo M, Karasz A, Feinberg J, Kim AY, Lum PJ, Mehta SH, Taylor LE, Tsui JI, Pericot-Valverde I, Page K. Rationale and design of a randomized pragmatic trial of patient-centered models of hepatitis C treatment for people who inject drugs: The HERO study. Contemp Clin Trials 2019; 87:105859. [PMID: 31669450 PMCID: PMC7261375 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2019.105859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although people who inject drugs (PWID) having the highest incidence and prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in the US, HCV treatment is rarely provided to PWID due to assumptions about poor adherence and reinfection risk. As direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) have achieved sustained virologic response (SVR) rates of 95% or more, evidence-based strategies are urgently needed to demonstrate real-world effectiveness in marginalized patient populations such as PWID. The objectives of this study are: 1) to determine whether either of two patient-centered treatment models - patient navigation (PN) or modified directly observed therapy (mDOT) - results in more forward movement along the HCV care cascade including treatment initiation, adherence, and SVR; 2) using quantitative and qualitative methods, to understand factors associated with lack of treatment uptake, poor adherence (<80%), failure to achieve SVR, DAA resistance, and HCV reinfection. METHODS The HERO study is a multi-site, pragmatic randomized clinical trial conducted in eight states where 754 HCV-infected PWID were randomly assigned to either PN or mDOT. CONCLUSIONS This study addresses an urgent need for timely and accurate information on optimal models of care to promote HCV treatment initiation, adherence, treatment completion and SVR among PWID, as well as rates and factors associated with reinfection and resistance after treatment. This clinical trial has the potential to provide valuable information on how to reduce the burden of the HCV epidemic in PWID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alain H Litwin
- Clemson University School of Health Research, Clemson, SC, USA; Department of Medicine, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Greenville, SC, USA; Department of Medicine, Prisma Health, Greenville, SC, USA.
| | - John Jost
- Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Katherine Wagner
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Moonseong Heo
- Department of Public Health Sciences, College of Behavioral, Social, and Health Sciences, Clemson University Clemson, SC, USA
| | | | - Judith Feinberg
- Department of Behavioral Medicine & Psychiatry and Department of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Arthur Y Kim
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Paula J Lum
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Shruti H Mehta
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Lynn E Taylor
- College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, CODAC Behavioral Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Judith I Tsui
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Irene Pericot-Valverde
- Clemson University School of Health Research, Clemson, SC, USA; Department of Medicine, Prisma Health, Greenville, SC, USA
| | - Kimberly Page
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA
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13
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Catlett B, Lamoury FMJ, Bajis S, Hajarizadeh B, Martinez D, Mowat Y, Cunningham PH, Jacka BP, Cloherty GA, Marks P, Dore GJ, Grebely J, Applegate TL. Evaluation of a hepatitis C virus core antigen assay from venepuncture and dried blood spot collected samples: A cohort study. J Viral Hepat 2019; 26:1423-1430. [PMID: 31448470 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Revised: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The global scale-up of hepatitis C virus (HCV) diagnosis requires simplified and affordable HCV diagnostic pathways. This study evaluated the sensitivity and specificity of the HCV Architect core antigen (HCVcAg) assay for detection of active HCV infection in plasma and capillary whole blood dried blood spots (DBS) compared with HCV RNA testing in plasma (Abbott RealTime HCV Viral Load). Samples were collected from participants in an observational cohort enrolled at three sites in Australia (two-drug treatment and alcohol clinics and one homelessness service). Of 205 participants, 200 had results across all samples and assay types and 186 were included in this analysis (14 participants receiving HCV therapy were excluded). HCV RNA was detected in 29% of participants ([95% CI: 22.6-36.1], 54 of 186). The sensitivity of HCVcAg for detection of active HCV infection in plasma was 98.1% (95% CI: 90-100) and 100% (95% CI: 93-100) when compared to HCV RNA thresholds of ≥12 and ≥1000 IU/mL, respectively. The sensitivity of the HCVcAg assay for detection of active HCV infection in DBS was 90.7% (95% CI: 80-97) and 92.5% (95% CI: 82-98) when compared to HCV RNA thresholds of ≥12 and ≥1000 IU/mL, respectively. The specificity of HCV core antigen for detection of active infection was 100% (95% CI: 97-100) for all samples and RNA thresholds. These data indicate that the detection of HCVcAg is a useful tool for determining active HCV infection; to facilitate enhanced testing, linkage to care and treatment particularly when testing plasma samples are collected by venepuncture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beth Catlett
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,St Vincent's Centre for Applied Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Sahar Bajis
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | | | - Yasmin Mowat
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Philip H Cunningham
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,St Vincent's Centre for Applied Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Brendan P Jacka
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Centre de recherche du CHUM, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Philippa Marks
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Gregory J Dore
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jason Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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14
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Sherbuk JE, McManus KA, Kemp Knick T, Canan CE, Flickinger T, Dillingham R. Disparities in Hepatitis C Linkage to Care in the Direct Acting Antiviral Era: Findings From a Referral Clinic With an Embedded Nurse Navigator Model. Front Public Health 2019; 7:362. [PMID: 31828056 PMCID: PMC6890553 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2019.00362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Direct acting antivirals (DAAs) have simplified and expanded access to Hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment. Only 17% of the 2.4 million Americans with HCV have linked to HCV care. We aimed to evaluate linkage to care (LTC) in a non-urban HCV referral clinic with a nurse navigator model and identify disparities in LTC. Methods: A single-center retrospective cohort analysis was performed among all patients referred to an infectious diseases HCV clinic between 2014 and 2018. The primary outcome was LTC, defined as attendance at a clinic appointment. A multivariable Poisson regression model estimated the association of variables with LTC. Results: Among 824 referred patients, 624 (76%) successfully linked to care and 369 (45%) successfully achieved sustained virologic response. Forty-six percent of those referred were uninsured. On multivariable analysis, LTC rates were higher among women (Incidence Rate Ratio [IRR] 1.11, 95% CI 1.03-1.20, p-value = 0.01) and people with cirrhosis (IRR 1.20, 95% CI 1.11-1.30, p-value < 0.001). Lower LTC rates were found for young people (<40 years; IRR 0.88, 95% CI 0.79-0.98, p-value = 0.02) and uninsured people (IRR 0.85, 95% CI 0.77-0.94, p-value = 0.002). Among those without LTC, 10% were incarcerated. Race, proximity to care, substance use, and HIV status were not associated with LTC. Conclusions: Using an embedded nurse navigator model, high LTC rates were achieved despite the prevalence of barriers, including a high uninsured rate. Disparities in LTC based on age, sex, and insurance status are present. Substance use was not associated with LTC. Future interventions to improve care should include expanded access to insurance and programs bridging care for incarcerated populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline E Sherbuk
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Kathleen A McManus
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Terry Kemp Knick
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Chelsea E Canan
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Tabor Flickinger
- Department of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Rebecca Dillingham
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
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15
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Biondi MJ, van Tilborg M, Smookler D, Heymann G, Aquino A, Perusini S, Mandel E, Kozak RA, Cherepanov V, Kowgier M, Hansen B, Goneau LW, Janssen HLA, Mazzulli T, Cloherty G, de Knegt RJ, Feld JJ. Hepatitis C Core-Antigen Testing from Dried Blood Spots. Viruses 2019; 11:v11090830. [PMID: 31489933 PMCID: PMC6784259 DOI: 10.3390/v11090830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2019] [Revised: 08/31/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In order to expand hepatitis C virus (HCV) screening, a change in the diagnostic paradigm is warranted to improve accessibility and decrease costs, such as utilizing dried blood spot (DBS) collection. In our study, blood from 68 patients with chronic HCV infection was spotted onto DBS cards and stored at the following temperatures for one week: −80 °C, 4 °C, 21 °C, 37 °C, and alternating 37 °C and 4 °C; to assess whether temperature change during transportation would affect sensitivity. Sample was eluted from the DBS cards and tested for HCV antibodies (HCV-Ab) and HCV core antigen (core-Ag). HCV-Abs were detected from 68/68 DBS samples at −80 °C, 4 °C, 21 °C, and 67/68 at 37 °C and alternating 37 °C and 4 °C. Sensitivity of core-Ag was as follows: 94% (−80 °C), 94% (4 °C), 91% (21 °C), 93% (37 °C), and 93% (37 °C/4 °C). Not only did temperature not greatly affect sensitivity, but sensitivities are higher than previously reported, and support the use of this assay as an alternative to HCV RNA. We then completed a head-to-head comparison (n = 49) of venous versus capillary samples, and one versus two DBS. No difference in core-Ag sensitivity was observed by sample type, but there was an improvement when using two spots. We conclude that HCV-Abs and core-Ag testing from DBS cards has high diagnostic accuracy and could be considered as an alternative to HCV RNA in certain settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mia J Biondi
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada.
- Viral Hepatitis Care Network (VIRCAN) Study Group, Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4 Canada.
- Arthur Labatt Family School of Nursing, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada.
| | - Marjolein van Tilborg
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada.
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam 3015 GD, The Netherlands.
| | - David Smookler
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada.
- Viral Hepatitis Care Network (VIRCAN) Study Group, Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4 Canada.
| | - Gregory Heymann
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada.
| | | | - Stephen Perusini
- Public Health Ontario Laboratories, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada.
| | - Erin Mandel
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada.
- Viral Hepatitis Care Network (VIRCAN) Study Group, Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4 Canada.
| | - Robert A Kozak
- Department of Microbiology, Sunnybrook Health Sciences, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada.
| | - Vera Cherepanov
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada.
| | - Matthew Kowgier
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 3M7, Canada.
| | - Bettina Hansen
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada.
- Viral Hepatitis Care Network (VIRCAN) Study Group, Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4 Canada.
| | - Lee W Goneau
- Public Health Ontario Laboratories, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada.
| | - Harry L A Janssen
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada
- Viral Hepatitis Care Network (VIRCAN) Study Group, Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4 Canada
| | - Tony Mazzulli
- Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON M5G 1X5, Canada.
- Public Health Ontario Laboratories, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada.
| | | | - Robert J de Knegt
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam 3015 GD, The Netherlands.
| | - Jordan J Feld
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada.
- Viral Hepatitis Care Network (VIRCAN) Study Group, Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4 Canada.
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada.
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16
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Day E, Hellard M, Treloar C, Bruneau J, Martin NK, Øvrehus A, Dalgard O, Lloyd A, Dillon J, Hickman M, Byrne J, Litwin A, Maticic M, Bruggmann P, Midgard H, Norton B, Trooskin S, Lazarus JV, Grebely J. Hepatitis C elimination among people who inject drugs: Challenges and recommendations for action within a health systems framework. Liver Int 2019; 39:20-30. [PMID: 30157316 PMCID: PMC6868526 DOI: 10.1111/liv.13949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2018] [Revised: 08/22/2018] [Accepted: 08/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The burden of hepatitis C infection is considerable among people who inject drugs (PWID), with an estimated prevalence of 39%, representing an estimated 6.1 million people who have recently injected drugs living with hepatitis C infection. As such, PWID are a priority population for enhancing prevention, testing, linkage to care, treatment and follow-up care in order to meet World Health Organization (WHO) hepatitis C elimination goals by 2030. There are many barriers to enhancing hepatitis C prevention and care among PWID including poor global coverage of harm reduction services, restrictive drug policies and criminalization of drug use, poor access to health services, low hepatitis C testing, linkage to care and treatment, restrictions for accessing DAA therapy, and the lack of national strategies and government investment to support WHO elimination goals. On 5 September 2017, the International Network of Hepatitis in Substance Users (INHSU) held a roundtable panel of international experts to discuss remaining challenges and future priorities for action from a health systems perspective. The WHO health systems framework comprises six core components: service delivery, health workforce, health information systems, medical procurement, health systems financing, and leadership and governance. Communication has been proposed as a seventh key element which promotes the central role of affected community engagement. This review paper presents recommended strategies for eliminating hepatitis C as a major public health threat among PWID and outlines future priorities for action within a health systems framework.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Day
- Australasian Society for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, and Sexual
Health Medicine, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Margaret Hellard
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne,
Victoria, Australia
| | - Carla Treloar
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney,
New South Wales, Australia
| | - Julie Bruneau
- CHUM Research Centre (CRCHUM), Centre Hospitalier de
l’Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Natasha K Martin
- Division of Global Public Health, University of California,
San Diego, California, United States
| | - Anne Øvrehus
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Odense University
Hospital, Denmark
| | - Olav Dalgard
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Akershus University
Hospital, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Andrew Lloyd
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales,
Australia
| | - John Dillon
- Division of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, School of
Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Matt Hickman
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School,
University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Jude Byrne
- Australian Injecting & Illicit Drug Users League,
Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Alain Litwin
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Albert Einstein
College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, New York, United States
| | - Mojca Maticic
- Clinic for Infectious Diseases and Febrile Illnesses,
University Medical Centre Ljubljana, and Faculty of Medicine, University of
Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | | | - Havard Midgard
- Department of Gastroenterology, Oslo University Hospital,
Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Brianna Norton
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Albert Einstein
College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, New York, United States
| | - Stacey Trooskin
- Philadelphia FIGHT, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United
States
| | - Jeffrey V Lazarus
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal),
Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jason Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales,
Australia
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17
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Radley A, van der Pol M, Dillon JF. Application of a discrete choice experiment approach to support the design of a hepatitis C testing service in primary care. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2018; 65:1-7. [PMID: 30576938 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2018.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Revised: 12/06/2018] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ascertaining the acceptability of healthcare provision to service users is an important factor in promoting service uptake, especially for populations who are reluctant to access care. This study identified the attributes of a Hepatitis C (HCV) testing service for people prescribed Opioid Substitution Therapy (OST) and used their expressed preferences to guide design of a service, using an applied health economics approach. MATERIALS AND METHODS Preferences of OST users were elicited using a discrete choice experiment. Important attributes for HCV testing were partly pre-determined by the research question and also identified using literature review and focus groups. Predetermined attributes included choice of provider and financial incentives. Other important attributes were place of testing; travel distance; attitudes and staff undertaking testing; waiting time for test results and incentive payment. The relative importance of defined attributes was assessed in 103 OST users attending 6 pharmacies from Dundee. RESULTS OST users preferred testing at their "own pharmacy", by their drug worker, followed by their general practitioner (GP). Use of another pharmacy was the least preferred option. Being treated with dignity and respect was valued most highly, with waiting time for test results and travel distance also important. Financial incentives were not considered important. CONCLUSIONS This study provides evidence that OST users prefer testing at their own pharmacy. The addition of a pharmacy to the providers offering HCV testing may increase uptake and support policies to eliminate HCV from our communities. Being treated with dignity and respect was highly valued and this suggests that testing uptake can be increased by developing positive relationships between OST users and test providers. Financial incentives were not found to be important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Radley
- NHS Tayside, Directorate of Public Health, Kings Cross Hospital, Clepington Road, Dundee DD3 8EA, United Kingdom.
| | - Marjon van der Pol
- Health Economics Research Unit (HERU), University of Aberdeen, Polwarth Building, Foresterhill, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, United Kingdom
| | - John F Dillon
- Division of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee DD1 9SY, United Kingdom
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18
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Radley A, de Bruin M, Inglis SK, Donnan PT, Dillon JF. Clinical effectiveness of pharmacy-led versus conventionally delivered antiviral treatment for hepatitis C in patients receiving opioid substitution therapy: a study protocol for a pragmatic cluster randomised trial. BMJ Open 2018; 8:e021443. [PMID: 30552244 PMCID: PMC6303565 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-021443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2017] [Revised: 05/08/2018] [Accepted: 10/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection affects 0.7% of the general population, and up to 40% of people prescribed opioid substitution therapy (OST) in Scotland. In conventional care, less than 10% of OST users are tested for HCV and less than 25% of these initiate treatment. Community pharmacists see this group frequently to provide OST supervision. This study examines whether a pharmacist-led 'test & treat' pathway increases cure rates for HCV. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This protocol describes a cluster-randomised trial where 60 community pharmacies provide either conventional or pharmacy-led care. All pharmacies offer dried blood spot testing (DBST) for HCV. Participants have attended the pharmacy for OST for 3 months; are positive for HCV genotype 1 or 3; are not co-infected with HIV and/or hepatitis B; have no decompensated liver disease; are not pregnant. For conventional care, pharmacists refer HCV-positive participants to a local centre for assessment. In the pharmacy-led arm, pharmacists assess participants themselves in the pharmacy. Drug prescribing is by nurse prescribers (conventional arm) or pharmacist prescribers (pharmacy-led arm). Treatment in both arms is delivered as daily modified directly observed therapy in a pharmacy. Primary trial outcome is number of sustained virological responses at 12 weeks after treatment completion. Secondary trial outcomes are number of tests taken; treatment uptake; completion; adherence; re-infection. An economic evaluation will assess potential cost-effectiveness. Qualitative research interviews with clients and health professionals assess acceptability of a pharmacist-led pathway. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This protocol has been ethically approved by the East of Scotland Research Ethics Committee 2 (15/ES/0086) and complies with the Declaration of Helsinki and principles of Good Clinical Practice. Caldicott guardian approval was given on 16 December 2016 to allow NHS Tayside to pass information to the cluster community pharmacies about the HCV test status of patients that they are seeing to provide OST supervision. NHS R&D approvals have been obtained from each health board taking part in the study. Informed consent is obtained before study enrolment and only anonymised data are stored in a secured database, enabling an audit trail. Results will be submitted to international peer-reviewed journals and presented at international conferences. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT02706223; Pre-results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Radley
- Directorate of Public Health, NHS Tayside, Kings Cross Hospital, Dundee, UK
| | - Marijn de Bruin
- Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Sarah K Inglis
- Tayside Clinical Trials Unit, University of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee, UK
| | - Peter T Donnan
- Tayside Clinical Trials Unit, University of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee, UK
| | - John F Dillon
- Division of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee, UK
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19
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Applegate TL, Fajardo E, Sacks JA. Hepatitis C Virus Diagnosis and the Holy Grail. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2018; 32:425-445. [DOI: 10.1016/j.idc.2018.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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20
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Tennant E, Vollmer-Conna U, Demirkol A, Post JJ. Determining the factors associated with blood-borne virus testing of substance misusers presenting to hospital. Intern Med J 2018; 47:907-914. [PMID: 28560729 DOI: 10.1111/imj.13497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2017] [Revised: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diagnosing blood-borne virus (BBV) infection is an essential first step in eliminating transmission and securing access to treatment amongst substance misusers. AIMS To determine the proportion of substance misusers presenting to hospital who undergo BBV testing and the factors influencing testing. METHODS A retrospective cross-sectional study was performed of patients presenting to two Sydney teaching hospitals with substance misuse diagnoses between January and April 2015. Proportions tested for human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis C and hepatitis B previously and during the index hospitalisation presentation were examined. Multivariable analysis was performed to determine factors associated with testing. RESULTS Of 239 patients, 47 (19.7%) had a documented BBV at baseline. Of those with unknown BBV status, 29 (12.8%) had undergone some attempt at testing during presentation; 3.1% had their hepatitis B immunity assessed. Factors associated with an increased likelihood of testing during presentation included documented injecting drug use (odds ratio (OR) 15.14; 95% confidence interval (CI) 4.21-54.50; P < 0.001), admission under a physician (OR 11.79; 95% CI 2.82-49.40; P = 0.001) and admission on a Friday (OR 4.46; 95% CI 1.28-15.48; P = 0.02). Patients who had had more than one previous admission in the preceding 6 months (OR 0.24; 95% CI 0.078-0.73; P = 0.01) or a length of stay of 1 day or less (OR 0.17; 95% CI 0.032-0.87; P = 0.033) were less likely to be tested. CONCLUSION Despite the high baseline prevalence of BBV infections in the population, there were many missed opportunities for BBV testing. We found patient-, admission- and clinician-level barriers that could be addressed to enhance BBV testing uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine Tennant
- Healthy Homes and Neighbourhoods Team, Community Health, Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Infectious Diseases Department, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of NSW, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ute Vollmer-Conna
- School of Psychiatry, University of NSW, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Apo Demirkol
- Department of Addiction Medicine, South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of NSW, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jeffrey J Post
- Infectious Diseases Department, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of NSW, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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21
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Lamoury FMJ, Bajis S, Hajarizadeh B, Marshall AD, Martinello M, Ivanova E, Catlett B, Mowat Y, Marks P, Amin J, Smith J, Ezard N, Cock V, Hayllar J, Persing DH, Kleman M, Cunningham P, Dore GJ, Applegate TL, Grebely J. Evaluation of the Xpert HCV Viral Load Finger-Stick Point-of-Care Assay. J Infect Dis 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiy114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sahar Bajis
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Elena Ivanova
- Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Beth Catlett
- St Vincent’s Applied Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Sydney, New South Wales
| | - Yasmin Mowat
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Janaki Amin
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales
| | - Julie Smith
- Matthew Talbot Hostel, St Vincent de Paul Society New South Wales Support Services, Sydney
| | - Nadine Ezard
- Alcohol and Drug Service, St Vincent’s Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales
- Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney
| | - Victoria Cock
- Drug and Alcohol Services of South Australia, Adelaide
| | - Jeremy Hayllar
- Alcohol and Drug Service, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | | | | | - Philip Cunningham
- St Vincent’s Applied Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Sydney, New South Wales
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22
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Grebely J, Applegate TL, Cunningham P, Feld JJ. Hepatitis C point-of-care diagnostics: in search of a single visit diagnosis. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2017; 17:1109-1115. [DOI: 10.1080/14737159.2017.1400385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jason Grebely
- Viral Hepatitis Clinical Research Program, The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Tanya L. Applegate
- Viral Hepatitis Clinical Research Program, The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Philip Cunningham
- St Vincent’s Centre for Applied Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jordan J. Feld
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Sandra Rotman Centre for Global Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Lange B, Cohn J, Roberts T, Camp J, Chauffour J, Gummadi N, Ishizaki A, Nagarathnam A, Tuaillon E, van de Perre P, Pichler C, Easterbrook P, Denkinger CM. Diagnostic accuracy of serological diagnosis of hepatitis C and B using dried blood spot samples (DBS): two systematic reviews and meta-analyses. BMC Infect Dis 2017; 17:700. [PMID: 29143672 PMCID: PMC5688450 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-017-2777-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dried blood spots (DBS) are a convenient tool to enable diagnostic testing for viral diseases due to transport, handling and logistical advantages over conventional venous blood sampling. A better understanding of the performance of serological testing for hepatitis C (HCV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) from DBS is important to enable more widespread use of this sampling approach in resource limited settings, and to inform the 2017 World Health Organization (WHO) guidance on testing for HBV/HCV. METHODS We conducted two systematic reviews and meta-analyses on the diagnostic accuracy of HCV antibody (HCV-Ab) and HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) from DBS samples compared to venous blood samples. MEDLINE, EMBASE, Global Health and Cochrane library were searched for studies that assessed diagnostic accuracy with DBS and agreement between DBS and venous sampling. Heterogeneity of results was assessed and where possible a pooled analysis of sensitivity and specificity was performed using a bivariate analysis with maximum likelihood estimate and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). We conducted a narrative review on the impact of varying storage conditions or limits of detection in subsets of samples. The QUADAS-2 tool was used to assess risk of bias. RESULTS For the diagnostic accuracy of HBsAg from DBS compared to venous blood, 19 studies were included in a quantitative meta-analysis, and 23 in a narrative review. Pooled sensitivity and specificity were 98% (95%CI:95%-99%) and 100% (95%CI:99-100%), respectively. For the diagnostic accuracy of HCV-Ab from DBS, 19 studies were included in a pooled quantitative meta-analysis, and 23 studies were included in a narrative review. Pooled estimates of sensitivity and specificity were 98% (CI95%:95-99) and 99% (CI95%:98-100), respectively. Overall quality of studies and heterogeneity were rated as moderate in both systematic reviews. CONCLUSION HCV-Ab and HBsAg testing using DBS compared to venous blood sampling was associated with excellent diagnostic accuracy. However, generalizability is limited as no uniform protocol was applied and most studies did not use fresh samples. Future studies on diagnostic accuracy should include an assessment of impact of environmental conditions common in low resource field settings. Manufacturers also need to formally validate their assays for DBS for use with their commercial assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berit Lange
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine II, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany, Freiburg, Germany. .,Centre for Chronic Immunodeficiency, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Jennifer Cohn
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Pennsylvania, PA, Philadelphia, USA
| | | | - Johannes Camp
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine II, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Germany, Freiburg, Germany
| | | | - Nina Gummadi
- School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, USA
| | - Azumi Ishizaki
- Global Hepatitis Programme, HIV Department, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Edouard Tuaillon
- Pathogenesis and Control of Chronic Infections UMR 1058 INSERM/Université Montpellier/Etablissement Français du Sang, INSERM, 34394, Montpellier Cedex 5, France.,Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Montpellier, Département de bactériologie-virologie, Montpellier, France
| | - Philippe van de Perre
- Pathogenesis and Control of Chronic Infections UMR 1058 INSERM/Université Montpellier/Etablissement Français du Sang, INSERM, 34394, Montpellier Cedex 5, France.,Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Montpellier, Département de bactériologie-virologie, Montpellier, France
| | - Christine Pichler
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Philippa Easterbrook
- Global Hepatitis Programme, HIV Department, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
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Grebely J, Hajarizadeh B, Dore GJ. Direct-acting antiviral agents for HCV infection affecting people who inject drugs. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2017; 14:641-651. [PMID: 28831184 DOI: 10.1038/nrgastro.2017.106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Globally, 12 million people are estimated to have injected drugs in the past year, 50% of whom have chronic HCV infection, with people who have previously injected drugs presenting an additional large reservoir of infection. The availability of simple and tolerable interferon-free direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) for HCV infection, which have a cure rate of >95% represents one of the most exciting advances in clinical medicine in the past few decades. Adherence and response to DAA therapy among people who inject drugs (PWID) receiving opioid substitution therapy (OST) in clinical trials are comparable to populations without a history of injecting drugs. Further data are required among current PWID not receiving OST. Given the potential prevention benefits of treatment, DAAs have enhanced cost-effectiveness among PWID. As HCV therapy is expanded to populations of PWID with high-risk behaviours for re-exposure, acknowledgement that HCV reinfection will occur is crucial, and appropriate strategies must be in place to maximize prevention of reinfection and offer retreatment for reinfection. This Review will also discuss essential components for broadening access to HCV care for PWID as we strive for the global elimination of HCV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
| | - Behzad Hajarizadeh
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
| | - Gregory J Dore
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
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25
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McLeod A, Cullen BL, Hutchinson SJ, Roy KM, Dillon JF, Stewart EA, Goldberg DJ. Limited impact of awareness-raising campaigns on hepatitis C testing practices among general practitioners. J Viral Hepat 2017; 24:944-954. [PMID: 28502088 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.12724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2016] [Accepted: 04/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The global hepatitis strategy calls for increased effort to diagnose those infected, with a target of 90% diagnosed by 2030. Scotland's Action Plan on Hepatitis C included awareness-raising campaigns, undertaken during 2008-2011, to promote testing by general practitioners. We examined hepatitis C virus (HCV) testing practice among general practitioners before and following these campaigns. Scottish general practitioners were surveyed, using Dillman's method, in 2007 and 2013; response rates were 69% and 60%, respectively. Most respondents offer testing when presented with a risk history (86% in 2007, 88% in 2013) but only one-fifth actively sought out risk factors (19% in 2007, 21% in 2013). Testing was reportedly always/almost always/usually offered to people who inject drugs (84% in 2007, 87% in 2013). Significant improvements in the offer of testing were reported in patients with abnormal LFTs (41% in 2007, 65% in 2013, P<.001) and who had received medical/dental treatment in high prevalence countries (14% in 2007, 24% in 2013, P=.001). In 2013, 25% of respondents had undertaken HCV-related continued professional development. This group was significantly more likely to actively seek out risk factors (P=.009) but only significantly more likely to offer a test to patients who had received medical/dental treatment in high prevalence countries (P=.001). Our findings suggest that government-led awareness raising campaigns have limited impact on general practitioners' testing practices. If the majority of the HCV-infected population are to be diagnosed, practitioner-based or physician-centred interventions should be considered alongside educational initiatives targeted at professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- A McLeod
- Health Protection Scotland, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - S J Hutchinson
- Health Protection Scotland, Glasgow, UK.,School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
| | - K M Roy
- Health Protection Scotland, Glasgow, UK
| | - J F Dillon
- NHS Tayside and Medical Research Institute, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - E A Stewart
- Department of Public Health, NHS Lothian and Bonnyrigg Health Centre, Edinburgh, UK
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26
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Grebely J, Bruneau J, Lazarus JV, Dalgard O, Bruggmann P, Treloar C, Hickman M, Hellard M, Roberts T, Crooks L, Midgard H, Larney S, Degenhardt L, Alho H, Byrne J, Dillon JF, Feld JJ, Foster G, Goldberg D, Lloyd AR, Reimer J, Robaeys G, Torrens M, Wright N, Maremmani I, Norton BL, Litwin AH, Dore GJ. Research priorities to achieve universal access to hepatitis C prevention, management and direct-acting antiviral treatment among people who inject drugs. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2017; 47:51-60. [PMID: 28683982 PMCID: PMC6049820 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2017.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2017] [Revised: 04/11/2017] [Accepted: 05/05/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Globally, it is estimated that 71.1 million people have chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, including an estimated 7.5 million people who have recently injected drugs (PWID). There is an additional large, but unquantified, burden among those PWID who have ceased injecting. The incidence of HCV infection among current PWID also remains high in many settings. Morbidity and mortality due to liver disease among PWID with HCV infection continues to increase, despite the advent of well-tolerated, simple interferon-free direct-acting antiviral (DAA) HCV regimens with cure rates >95%. As a result of this important clinical breakthrough, there is potential to reverse the rising burden of advanced liver disease with increased treatment and strive for HCV elimination among PWID. Unfortunately, there are many gaps in knowledge that represent barriers to effective prevention and management of HCV among PWID. The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney and the International Network on Hepatitis in Substance Users (INHSU) established an expert round table panel to assess current research gaps and establish future research priorities for the prevention and management of HCV among PWID. This round table consisted of a one-day workshop held on 6 September, 2016, in Oslo, Norway, prior to the International Symposium on Hepatitis in Substance Users (INHSU 2016). International experts in drug and alcohol, infectious diseases, and hepatology were brought together to discuss the available scientific evidence, gaps in research, and develop research priorities. Topics for discussion included the epidemiology of injecting drug use, HCV, and HIV among PWID, HCV prevention, HCV testing, linkage to HCV care and treatment, DAA treatment for HCV infection, and reinfection following successful treatment. This paper highlights the outcomes of the roundtable discussion focused on future research priorities for enhancing HCV prevention, testing, linkage to care and DAA treatment for PWID as we strive for global elimination of HCV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Julie Bruneau
- CHUM Research Centre (CRCHUM), Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada; Department of Family and Emergency Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Jeffrey V Lazarus
- CHIP, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; Barcelona Institute of Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Olav Dalgard
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway; University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Carla Treloar
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Matthew Hickman
- School of Social & Community Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Margaret Hellard
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Levinia Crooks
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Australasian Society for HIV, Viral Hepatitis and Sexual Health Medicine, Sydney, Australia
| | - Håvard Midgard
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway; Institute for Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway; Department of Gastroenterology, Oslo University Hospital, Norway
| | - Sarah Larney
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Australia, Sydney, Australia
| | - Louisa Degenhardt
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Australia, Sydney, Australia
| | - Hannu Alho
- University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland; National Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland; Abdominal Center, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jude Byrne
- Australian Injecting & Illicit Drug Users League, Canberra, Australia
| | - John F Dillon
- Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Jordan J Feld
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Sandra Rotman Centre for Global Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Graham Foster
- The Liver Unit, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - David Goldberg
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, United Kingdom; Health Protection Scotland, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | | | - Jens Reimer
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Addiction Research, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Geert Robaeys
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ziekenhuis Oost Limburg, Genk, Belgium; Department of Hepatology, UZ Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Marta Torrens
- Institute of Neuropsychiatry & Addictions-Hospital del Mar, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Icro Maremmani
- Santa Chiara University Hospital, University of Pisa, Italy
| | - Brianna L Norton
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, United States
| | - Alain H Litwin
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, New York, United States
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Radley A, Melville K, Tait J, Stephens B, Evans JMM, Dillon JF. A quasi-experimental evaluation of dried blood spot testing through community pharmacies in the Tayside region of Scotland. Frontline Gastroenterol 2017; 8:221-228. [PMID: 28839912 PMCID: PMC5558284 DOI: 10.1136/flgastro-2016-100776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2016] [Revised: 12/11/2016] [Accepted: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Comparison of uptake of dried blood spot testing (DBST) for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection between community pharmacies and established services. DESIGN Quantitative evaluation of a service development with qualitative process evaluation undertaken in parallel. SETTING Six pharmacies from 36 community pharmacies within Dundee City, a large urban settlement with high levels of socioeconomic deprivation. PARTICIPANTS Patients in receipt of opioid substitution therapy (OST) not tested for HCV within 12 months. The 6 pharmacies provided OST for approximately 363 patients from a cohort of 1385 patients within Dundee City. INTERVENTION Provision of DBST by pharmacists. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Receipt of DBST between January and December 2014. RESULTS 43 of 143 service users with no record of testing from the 6 community pharmacies accepted DBST. Of 561 from the remaining 1022 service users with no record of testing, 75 were tested for HCV (30% vs 13%). The OR for increased uptake of testing within the 6 pharmacies was 2.25 (95% CI 1.48 to 3.41, Z statistic=3.81, p=<0.0001) compared with other services. The DBST taken by the pharmacies provided 12 patients with a reactive test. The process evaluation identified key themes important to staff and recipients of the service. A logic model was constructed. LIMITATIONS Non-experimental service evaluation performed in community pharmacies records service activity in one location across a single time period. INTERPRETATION Some evidence that DBST from community pharmacies may be feasible. Service users received the service positively. Staff reported that DBST was straightforward and achievable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Radley
- NHS Tayside, Directorate of Public Health, Kings Cross Hospital, Dundee, UK
| | - Karen Melville
- NHS Tayside, Tayside Substance Misuse Services, Dundee, UK
| | - Jan Tait
- NHS Tayside, Gastroenterology Department, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee, UK
| | - Brian Stephens
- NHS Tayside, Gastroenterology Department, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee, UK
| | - Josie M M Evans
- Division of Health Sciences and Sport, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - John F Dillon
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicines and Diabetes, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
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28
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Marins EG, Bodinaidu K, Lin M, Deforest A. Evaluation of the COBAS ® AmpliPrep/COBAS ® TaqMan ® HCV Test v2.0 for HCV viral load monitoring using dried blood spot specimens. J Virol Methods 2017; 247:77-80. [PMID: 28576449 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2017.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2017] [Revised: 05/24/2017] [Accepted: 05/25/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluated the use of dried blood spot (DBS) for HCV viral load quantification using the COBAS® AmpliPrep/COBAS® Taqman® HCV Quantitative Test v2.0 (CAP/CTM HCV v2), and compared two different procedures for preparation of DBS samples with a Specimen Pre-Extraction (SPEX) reagent (either heated [SPEX with SH] for 10min at 56°C on a thermomixer, or incubated for 1h at room temperature [SPEX at RT]) against the standard plasma input. Whole blood specimens from 48 patients with chronic HCV infection and Whatman® 903 Protein Saver Cards were used to prepare 35μL DBS. An aliquot of plasma was spun and frozen from each draw. Mean DBS viral load results were compared to the corresponding results from plasma. Correlation between DBS to plasma was linear for both SPEX with SH (R2=0.96) and SPEX at RT (R2=0.97) procedures, with a constant negative offset of approximately 2.0log10IU/mL between whole blood DBS without any adjustments and plasma results. After volume corrections, the mean offset to plasma decreased to -0.39 and -0.36 for the two procedures, respectively. The study demonstrated the use of DBS for HCV viral load correlates well with plasma with a constant offset.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ed G Marins
- Roche Molecular Systems, 4300 Hacienda Dr, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States.
| | - Keerthi Bodinaidu
- Roche Molecular Systems, 4300 Hacienda Dr, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
| | - Matthew Lin
- Roche Molecular Systems, 4300 Hacienda Dr, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
| | - Alison Deforest
- Roche Molecular Systems, 4300 Hacienda Dr, Pleasanton, CA, 94588, United States
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29
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Mössner BK, Staugaard B, Jensen J, Lillevang ST, Christensen PB, Holm DK. Dried blood spots, valid screening for viral hepatitis and human immunodeficiency virus in real-life. World J Gastroenterol 2016; 22:7604-7612. [PMID: 27672281 PMCID: PMC5011674 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v22.i33.7604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Revised: 06/27/2016] [Accepted: 08/01/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To detect chronic hepatitis B (CHB), chronic hepatitis C (CHC) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections in dried blood spot (DBS) and compare these samples to venous blood sampling in real-life.
METHODS We included prospective patients with known viral infections from drug treatment centers, a prison and outpatient clinics and included blood donors as negative controls. Five drops of finger capillary blood were spotted on filter paper, and a venous blood sample was obtained. The samples were analyzed for HBsAg, anti-HBc, anti-HBs, anti-HCV, and anti-HIV levels as well as subjected to a combined nucleic acid test (NAT) for HBV DNA, HCV RNA and HIV RNA.
RESULTS Samples from 404 subjects were screened (85 CHB, 116 CHC, 114 HIV and 99 blood donors). DBS had a sensitivity of > 96% and a specificity of > 98% for the detection of all three infections. NAT testing did not improve sensitivity, but correctly classified 95% of the anti-HCV-positive patients with chronic and past infections. Anti-HBc and anti-HBS showed low sensitivity in DBS (68% and 42%).
CONCLUSION DBS sampling, combined with an automated analysis system, is a feasible screening method to diagnose chronic viral hepatitis and HIV infections outside of the health care system.
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30
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Prevost TC, Presanis AM, Taylor A, Goldberg DJ, Hutchinson SJ, De Angelis D. Estimating the number of people with hepatitis C virus who have ever injected drugs and have yet to be diagnosed: an evidence synthesis approach for Scotland. Addiction 2015; 110:1287-300. [PMID: 25876667 PMCID: PMC4744705 DOI: 10.1111/add.12948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2014] [Revised: 09/16/2014] [Accepted: 04/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To estimate the number of people who have ever injected drugs (defined here as PWID) living in Scotland in 2009 who have been infected with the hepatitis C virus (HCV) and to quantify and characterize the population remaining undiagnosed. METHODS Information from routine surveillance (n=22616) and survey data (n=2511) was combined using a multiparameter evidence synthesis approach to estimate the size of the PWID population, HCV antibody prevalence and the proportion of HCV antibody prevalent cases who have been diagnosed, in subgroups defined by recency of injecting (in the last year or not), age (15-34 and 35-64 years), gender and region of residence (Greater Glasgow and Clyde and the rest of Scotland). RESULTS HCV antibody-prevalence among PWID in Scotland during 2009 was estimated to be 57% [95% CI=52-61%], corresponding to 46657 [95% credible interval (CI)=33812-66803] prevalent cases. Of these, 27434 (95% CI=14636-47564) were undiagnosed, representing 59% [95% CI=43-71%] of prevalent cases. Among the undiagnosed, 83% (95% CI=75-89%) were PWID who had not injected in the last year and 71% (95% CI=58-85%) were aged 35-64 years. CONCLUSIONS The number of undiagnosed hepatitis C virus-infected cases in Scotland appears to be particularly high among those who have injected drugs more than 1 year ago and are more than 35 years old.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa C. Prevost
- MRC Biostatistics UnitCambridge Institute of Public HealthCambridgeUK
| | - Anne M. Presanis
- MRC Biostatistics UnitCambridge Institute of Public HealthCambridgeUK
| | - Avril Taylor
- School of Culture, Media and SocietyUniversity of the West of ScotlandPaisleyUK
| | | | - Sharon J. Hutchinson
- Health Protection ScotlandNHS National Services ScotlandGlasgowUK
- School of Health and Life SciencesGlasgow Caledonian UniversityGlasgowUK
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Expansion of HCV treatment access to people who have injected drugs through effective translation of research into public health policy: Scotland's experience. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2015; 26:1041-9. [PMID: 26123893 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2015.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2015] [Revised: 05/11/2015] [Accepted: 05/31/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Seven years have elapsed since the Scottish Government launched its Hepatitis C Action Plan - a Plan to improve services to prevent transmission of infection, particularly among people who inject drugs (PWID), identify those infected and ensure those infected receive optimal treatment. The Plan was underpinned by industrial scale funding (around £100 million, in addition to the general NHS funding, will have been invested by 2015), and a web of accountable national and local multi-disciplinary multi-agency networks responsible for the planning, development and delivery of services. Initiatives ranged from the introduction of testing in specialist drug services through finger-prick blood sampling by non-clinical staff, to the setting of government targets to ensure rapid scale-up of antiviral therapy. The Plan was informed by comprehensive national monitoring systems, indicating the extent of the problem not just in terms of numbers infected, diagnosed and treated but also the more penetrative data on the number advancing to end-stage liver disease and death, and also through compelling modelling work demonstrating the potential beneficial impact of scaling-up therapy and the mounting cost of not acting. Achievements include around 50% increase in the proportion of the infected population diagnosed (38% to 55%); a sustained near two-and-a-half fold increase in the annual number of people initiated onto therapy (470 to 1050) with more pronounced increases among PWID (300 to 840) and prisoners (20 to 140); and reversing of an upward trend in the overall number of people living with chronic infection. The Action Plan has demonstrated that a Government-backed, coordinated and invested approach can transform services and rapidly improve the lives of thousands. Cited as "an impressive example of a national strategy" by the Global Commission on Drug Policy, the Scottish Plan has also provided fundamental insights of international relevance into the management of HCV among PWID.
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Ford N, Wiktor S, Kaplan K, Andrieux-Meyer I, Hill A, Radhakrishnan P, Londeix P, Forette C, Momenghalibaf A, Verster A, Swan T. Ten priorities for expanding access to HCV treatment for people who inject drugs in low- and middle-income countries. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2015; 26:1088-93. [PMID: 26074094 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2015.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2015] [Revised: 04/16/2015] [Accepted: 05/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Of the estimated 130-150 million people who are chronically infected with hepatitis C virus, around 90% reside in low- and middle-income countries. People who inject drugs are disproportionately affected by HCV, with a global estimated prevalence (based on serological reports of HCV antibodies) of 67%; world-wide over 10 million people who inject drugs are infected with HCV. Treatment for HCV has improved dramatically in recent years with the arrival of new direct acting antivirals (DAAs) and this is stimulating considerable efforts to scale up access to treatment. However, treatment coverage among the general population is less than 10% in most countries, and coverage for people who inject drugs is generally much lower. It is estimated that globally around 2 million people who inject drugs need treatment for HCV. The DAAs offer significant potential to rapidly expand access to treatment for HCV. While the ideal combination therapy remains to be established, key characteristics include high efficacy, tolerability, pan-genotypic activity, short treatment duration, oral therapy, affordability, limited drug-drug interactions, and availability as fixed-dose combinations and once daily treatments. This paper outlines 10 key priorities for improving access to HCV treatment for people who inject drugs: (1) affordable access to direct acting antivirals; (2) increased awareness and testing; (3) standardization of treatment; (4) simplification of service delivery; (5) integration of services; (6) peer support; (7) treatment within a framework of comprehensive prevention; (8) tracking progress; (9) dedicated funding; and (10) enabling policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Ford
- Department of HIV/AIDS and Global Hepatitis Programme, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Stefan Wiktor
- Department of HIV/AIDS and Global Hepatitis Programme, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Andrew Hill
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | | - Annette Verster
- Department of HIV/AIDS and Global Hepatitis Programme, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
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33
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Evidence-based interventions to enhance assessment, treatment, and adherence in the chronic Hepatitis C care continuum. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2015; 26:922-35. [PMID: 26077144 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2015.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2015] [Revised: 04/21/2015] [Accepted: 05/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the explosion of newly available direct acting antiviral (DAA) Hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatments that demonstrate 95% sustained virologic response (SVR) rates, evidence-based strategies are urgently needed to achieve real-world effectiveness in challenging patient populations. While HIV is incurable, lessons from over 30 years of experience overcoming obstacles to the HIV treatment cascade could be applied to the HCV context. METHODS Using Institute of Medicine guidelines, we conducted a systematic review of published interventions from PubMed, Medline, GoogleScholar, EmBASE, and PsychInfo bibliographic databases and citation indices. Abstracts were first screened by three independent reviewers and studies were included if they involved original research, described a specific intervention, were published in English in a peer-reviewed journal between 2001 and 2014, and had full text available. RESULTS Evidence-based interventions to enhance HCV assessment, treatment, and adherence generally fell into one of 4 categories, including those involving: (1) diagnosis or case-finding; (2) linkage to HCV care; (3) pre-therapeutic evaluation or treatment initiation; or (4) treatment adherence. While most available eligible studies described interventions using non-contemporary interferon-based HCV treatments, future research will need to address how these interventions apply to the context of well-tolerated, simple, oral treatment regimens. In some cases, we explored how HIV-specific interventions might be modified to fit the HCV spectrum of care engagement. CONCLUSIONS Evidence-based interventions should be strategically incorporated into HCV treatment implementation efforts to most effectively deliver treatment and maximize treatment outcomes.
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