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Coessens M, Schouten J, Holvoet T, Verlinden W. Awareness of chronic hepatitis B and C in men who have sex with men in Belgium: epidemiological survey and on-site screening. Sex Transm Infect 2024; 100:321-324. [PMID: 38960601 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2023-055912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To eliminate hepatitis B and C virus (HBV/HCV) as a public health threat by 2030, the WHO focuses on screening key populations, including men who have sex with men (MSM).This study aims to assess HBV and HCV knowledge and awareness and HCV prevalence in MSM in Belgium. METHODS First, a questionnaire was designed to assess MSM's knowledge of HBV and HCV infection (disease process, vaccination, treatment and transmission routes). This questionnaire was conducted online, and by means of a tablet-based face-to-face questionnaire at the Antwerp and Belgian Pride. Second, HCV and HIV prevalence data were collected during outreach projects and office screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) organised by Sensoa and Exaequo, a Flemish and Walloon sexual health organisation. RESULTS 300 MSM completed the questionnaire (median age 36 years; 7.7% HIV+). Mean overall survey scores were low (HBV: 41.1%; HCV: 39.8%). Few participants identified all transmission routes correctly (HBV: 15%; HCV 1%).The degree of education was significantly correlated with HBV knowledge and showed a trend towards correlation with HCV knowledge. HCV knowledge was significantly correlated with high-risk sexual behaviour.The prevalence of HCV and HIV was 0.3% and 1.0%, respectively, in MSM attending commercial gay venues and 0% and 1.9% in MSM attending office STI screening. CONCLUSIONS Knowledge of HBV and HCV infection in MSM is poor. More awareness campaigns are needed, focusing on frequent HCV risk factors (group sex, chemsex, receptive fisting, and sharing of anal toys and anal douching devices), especially targeting low-educated MSM. HBV vaccination of MSM requires continued attention.The prevalence of HCV and HIV was remarkably low in commercial gay venues and may be higher in older MSM or in subcultures where risk factors coexist (eg, chemsex). The cost-effectiveness of internet-based approaches with subsequent at-home testing needs to be evaluated in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Coessens
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Vitaz, Sint-Niklaas, Belgium
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics, University of Antwerp Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Jeoffrey Schouten
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Vitaz, Sint-Niklaas, Belgium
- Ghent University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tom Holvoet
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Vitaz, Sint-Niklaas, Belgium
- Ghent University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Wim Verlinden
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Vitaz, Sint-Niklaas, Belgium
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine and Pediatrics, University of Antwerp Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wilrijk, Belgium
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2
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Politi J, Donat M, Guerras JM, Ayerdi O, Palma D, García JN, Barrio G, Belza MJ. Gaps in HIV and Hepatitis C Testing Among 3486 HIV-Negative Men Who have Sex with Men in Spain in the Era of Highly Effective Antiviral Therapies. J Community Health 2024; 49:139-155. [PMID: 37561245 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-023-01259-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
High uptake of HIV and hepatitis C (HCV) testing in Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) is needed to interrupt transmission. The objective was to identify subgroups with increased probability of lack of testing among HIV-negative GBMSM in Spain. Cross-sectional study including 3486 HIV-negative GBMSM attending prevention facilities in Madrid and Barcelona, 2018-2020. Data came from self-administered online sociodemographic, health, and risk behaviors questionnaires. Outcomes were lack of HCV (lifetime) and HIV (lifetime, last year) testing. Crude and adjusted prevalences and prevalence ratios were assessed for each outcome using negative binomial regression models. Lifetime lack of HIV and HCV testing prevalence was 6.3% and 35.8%, respectively, while lack of HIV testing in the last year was 22.4%. Prevalences were also substantial in GBMSM with high-risk behaviors. After sociodemographic adjustment, the highest probability of lack of HCV testing (lifetime) and HIV (last year) was among GBMSM with insufficient viral hepatitis knowledge, no history of STI, or HCV (or HIV) testing, aged < 25, non-outness about sex life with men, and less high-risk behaviors. Lack of HCV (lifetime) and HIV testing (last year) among HIV-negative GBMSM in Spain is still high, despite high-risk behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julieta Politi
- Escuela Nacional de Sanidad, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Av. Monforte de Lemos, 5, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Donat
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Miguel Guerras
- Escuela Nacional de Sanidad, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Av. Monforte de Lemos, 5, 28029, Madrid, Spain.
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Oskar Ayerdi
- Centro Sanitario Sandoval, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria San Carlos, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - David Palma
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Servicio de Epidemiología, Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jorge Néstor García
- Unidad de ITS de Vall d'Hebron-Drassanes, Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gregorio Barrio
- Escuela Nacional de Sanidad, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Av. Monforte de Lemos, 5, 28029, Madrid, Spain
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - María José Belza
- Escuela Nacional de Sanidad, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Av. Monforte de Lemos, 5, 28029, Madrid, Spain
- CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
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3
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High prevalence of unawareness of HCV infection status among both HCV-seronegative and seropositive people living with human immunodeficiency virus in Taiwan. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0251158. [PMID: 33956867 PMCID: PMC8101914 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0251158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives HCV infection status awareness is crucial in the HCV care continuum for both HCV-seropositive (HCV-positive status awareness) and seronegative (HCV-negative status awareness) populations. However, trends in the unawareness of HCV infection status (UoHCV) remain unknown in HIV-positive patients. This study investigated UoHCV prevalence, the associated factors of UoHCV, and its association with HCV-related knowledge in HIV-positive patients. Methods For this cross-sectional, multicenter, questionnaire-based study, 844 HIV-infected participants were recruited from three hospitals in Taiwan from June 2018 to March 2020. Participants were grouped by HCV serostatus (HCV-seronegative [n = 734] and HCV-seropositive [n = 110]) and categorized by their HIV diagnosis date (before 2008, 2008–2013, and 2014–2020). Exploratory factor analysis was used to categorize the 15 items of HCV-related knowledge into three domains: route of HCV transmission, HCV course and complications, and HCV treatment. Results The prevalence of UoHCV was 58.7%–62.6% and 15.1%–31.3% in the HCV-seronegative and HCV-seropositive groups, respectively, across 3 periods. More participants with UoHCV believed that HCV infection was only contracted by intravenous injection. In the HCV-seropositive group, participants with UoHCV were more likely to have HIV diagnosis before 2008 (vs. 2014–2020), be men who have sex with men (vs. people who inject drugs), and have hepatitis A virus seronegativity. In the HCV-seronegative group, participants with UoHCV were more likely to have a recent history of sexually transmitted diseases, but had a lower education level, had received less information on HCV infection from clinicians, and were less likely to have heard of HCV infection prior to the research. UoHCV was associated with lower scores for three domains of HCV-related knowledge in both groups. Conclusions The negative association of UoHCV with HCV-related knowledge suggests that strategies targeting patients according to their HCV serostatus should be implemented to reduce UoHCV and eradicate HCV infection among HIV-positive patients.
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4
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Wang R, Cui N, Long M, Mu L, Zeng H. Barriers to uptake of hepatitis C virus (HCV) health intervention among men who have sex with men in Southwest China: A qualitative study. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2021; 29:445-452. [PMID: 32667104 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2019] [Revised: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Men who have sex with men (MSM) are at risk of contracting the hepatitis C virus (HCV). Previous studies have documented low uptake of sexually transmitted disease (STD) prevention and health services among Chinese MSM. We carried out qualitative research among MSM in Southwest China. By taking the Health Brief Model (HBM) as a framework, we aimed to determine the underlying factors related to use of HCV health intervention services among MSM. From May to July 2018, we conducted in-depth interviews in Southwest China with 20 participants. Our research revealed that a lack of knowledge about HCV prevention was the main reason why MSM failed to perceive their susceptibility to HCV and had low motivation to seek preventive services. Poor service accessibility and unpleasant experiences seeing doctors also exerted negative influences on health care-seeking behaviour in MSM. More trust and understanding needs to be built between health providers and MSM. Protection of privacy for MSM should be guaranteed in the delivery of health interventions. In addition, the interviewees showed refusal to engage with health interventions being specifically targeted at MSM, which would create a sense of being 'labelled'. Tailored health interventions may overemphasise their sexuality, segregate them from heterosexuals, and make them feel alienated. Therefore, we speculate that differential treatment may be an obstacle for MSM to become involved in health interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruoxi Wang
- School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Blood Components Department, Chengdu Blood Center, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Nianqi Cui
- Department of Nursing, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine (SAHZU), Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Mengyun Long
- Medical Faculty, Yunnan College of Business Management, Kunming, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Lihong Mu
- School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Research Center for Medicine and Social Governance in Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- The Innovation Center for Social Risk Governance in Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Huan Zeng
- School of Public Health and Management, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Research Center for Medicine and Social Governance in Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- The Innovation Center for Social Risk Governance in Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Bradshaw D, Vasylyeva TI, Davis C, Pybus OG, Thézé J, Thomson EC, Martinello M, Matthews GV, Burholt R, Gilleece Y, Cooke GS, Page EE, Waters L, Nelson M. Transmission of hepatitis C virus in HIV-positive and PrEP-using MSM in England. J Viral Hepat 2020; 27:721-730. [PMID: 32115809 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Revised: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
We sought to characterize risk factors and patterns of HCV transmission amongst men who have sex with men (MSM). MSM with recently acquired HCV (AHCV) were prospectively recruited ('clinic cohort') between January and September 2017. Clinical data and risk behaviours were identified and blood obtained for HCV whole genome sequencing. Phylogenetic analyses were performed, using sequences from this cohort and two other AHCV cohorts, to identify transmission clusters. Sixteen (40.0%) men in the clinic cohort were HIV-negative MSM. HIV-negative MSM were younger than HIV-positive MSM; most (81.3%) had taken HIV PrEP in the preceding year. Eighteen men (45.0%) reported injection drug use; most (34, 85.0%) reported noninjection drug use in the last year. Most in both groups reported condomless anal sex, fisting and sex in a group environment. Few (7, 17.5%) men thought partners may have had HCV. There were 52 sequences in the HCV genotype 1a phylogeny, 18 from the clinic cohort and 34 from other AHCV cohorts; 47 (90.4%) clustered with ≥1 other sequence. There were 7 clusters of 2-27 sequences; 6 clusters contained HIV-negative and HIV-positive MSM and 1 cluster only HIV-positive MSM. Four of these clusters were part of larger clusters first described in 2007. PrEP-using MSM are at risk of HCV, sharing similar risk factors to HIV-positive MSM. Phylogenetics highlights that PrEP-using and HIV-positive MSM are involved in the same HCV transmission networks. Few men demonstrated HCV awareness and risk reduction strategies should be expanded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Bradshaw
- Department of HIV and Sexual Health, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Chris Davis
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Julien Thézé
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Emma C Thomson
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Gail V Matthews
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ruth Burholt
- Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust, Brighton, UK
| | - Yvonne Gilleece
- Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust, Brighton, UK
| | | | - Emma E Page
- Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Mark Nelson
- Department of HIV and Sexual Health, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Schroeder SE, Higgs P, Winter R, Brown G, Pedrana A, Hellard M, Doyle J, Stoové M. Hepatitis C risk perceptions and attitudes towards reinfection among HIV-diagnosed gay and bisexual men in Melbourne, Australia. J Int AIDS Soc 2019; 22:e25288. [PMID: 31111671 PMCID: PMC6528066 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 04/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gay and bisexual men (GBM) are at increased risk of hepatitis C/HIV co-infection. In Australia, the availability of subsidized direct-acting antiviral treatment for hepatitis C has rendered eliminating co-infection possible. High reinfection rates in subgroups with continued exposure may compromise elimination efforts. To inform the development of hepatitis C risk reduction support in GBM, we explored reinfection risk perceptions and attitudes among GBM living with HIV recently cured from hepatitis C. METHODS Between April and August 2017, 15 GBM living with diagnosed HIV were recruited from high caseload HIV primary care services in Melbourne following successful hepatitis C treatment. In-depth interviews were conducted exploring understandings of hepatitis C risks, experiences of co-infection and attitudes towards reinfection. Constructivist grounded theory guided data aggregation. RESULTS Participants' understandings of their hepatitis C infection and reinfection trajectories were captured in three categories. Hepatitis C and HIV disease dichotomies: Hepatitis C diagnosis was a shock to most participants and contrasted with feelings of inevitability associated with HIV seroconversion. While HIV was normalized, hepatitis C was experienced as highly stigmatizing. Despite injecting drug use, interviewees did not identify with populations typically at risk of hepatitis C. Risk environments and avoiding reinfection: Interviewees identified their social and sexual networks as risk-perpetuating environments where drug use was ubiquitous and higher risk sex was common. Avoiding these risk environments to avoid reinfection resulted in community disengagement, leaving many feeling socially isolated. Hepatitis C care as a catalyst for change: Engagement in hepatitis C care contributed to a better understanding of hepatitis C risks. Interviewees were committed to applying their improved competencies around transmission risk reduction to avoid reinfection. Interviewees also considered hepatitis C care as a catalyst to reduce their drug use. CONCLUSIONS Hepatitis C/HIV co-infection among GBM cannot be understood in isolation from co-occurring drug use and sex, nor as separate from their HIV infection. Hepatitis C prevention must address subcultural heterogeneity and the intersectionality between multiple stigmatized social identities. Hepatitis C care presents an opportunity to provide support beyond cure. Peer support networks could mitigate social capital loss following a commitment to behaviour change and reduce hepatitis C reinfection risks.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter Higgs
- Disease Elimination ProgramBurnet InstituteMelbourneAustralia
- Department of Public HealthLa Trobe UniversityMelbourneAustralia
| | - Rebecca Winter
- Disease Elimination ProgramBurnet InstituteMelbourneAustralia
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologySt Vincent's HospitalMelbourneAustralia
| | - Graham Brown
- Department of Public HealthLa Trobe UniversityMelbourneAustralia
| | - Alisa Pedrana
- Disease Elimination ProgramBurnet InstituteMelbourneAustralia
- School of Public Health and Preventive MedicineMonash UniversityMelbourneAustralia
| | - Margaret Hellard
- Disease Elimination ProgramBurnet InstituteMelbourneAustralia
- School of Public Health and Preventive MedicineMonash UniversityMelbourneAustralia
- Department of Infectious DiseasesThe Alfred HospitalMelbourneAustralia
| | - Joseph Doyle
- Disease Elimination ProgramBurnet InstituteMelbourneAustralia
- School of Public Health and Preventive MedicineMonash UniversityMelbourneAustralia
- Department of Infectious DiseasesThe Alfred HospitalMelbourneAustralia
| | - Mark Stoové
- Disease Elimination ProgramBurnet InstituteMelbourneAustralia
- Department of Infectious DiseasesThe Alfred HospitalMelbourneAustralia
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7
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Lambers F, van der Veldt W, Prins M, Davidovich U. Changing the odds: motives for and barriers to reducing HCV-related sexual risk behaviour among HIV-infected MSM previously infected with HCV. BMC Infect Dis 2018; 18:678. [PMID: 30563503 PMCID: PMC6299620 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-018-3571-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2017] [Accepted: 11/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Among HIV-infected MSM who have been treated for HCV infection, the HCV reinfection rate is high. It is therefore essential to understand their perceptions of HCV risk behaviour and risk-reducing strategies. Methods This qualitative study among 20 HCV-infected MSM, the majority treated in the era before direct acting antivirals, provides insight into their ideas, motives, and barriers concerning HCV risk reduction, and aims to strengthen prevention strategies for both primary HCV infection and HCV reinfection. Results The strongest motive to implement risk reduction strategies was the reward of avoiding HCV retreatment and its side effects, but this may change with the current implementation of less burdensome HCV treatment. Also, the sexual risk norms in the MSM scene, including social pressure towards risk-taking, HCV stigma, and non-disclosure of HCV status, all form barriers to safe sex. Drug use, strongly present in the context of clubs and group sex, directly impedes the self-efficacy of men to take risk reduction measures. Conclusions Tailored prevention messages, empowerment of self-efficacy for risk reduction, and more insight into risk behaviour over time are ingredients for effective HCV prevention among these men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Femke Lambers
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Wendy van der Veldt
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Maria Prins
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Infectious Diseases (Centre for Infection and Immunology Amsterdam (CINIMA), Academic Medical Centre (University of Amsterdam), Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Udi Davidovich
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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8
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Awareness and knowledge of hepatitis C among health care providers and the public: A scoping review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 44:157-165. [PMID: 31011296 DOI: 10.14745/ccdr.v44i78a02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Background The Global Viral Hepatitis Strategy aims to eliminate hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030. The hepatitis C virus (HCV) can be difficult to detect as infection can remain asymptomatic for decades. Individuals are often neither offered nor seek testing until symptoms develop. This highlights the importance of increasing awareness and knowledge among health care providers and the public to reach the viral hepatitis goals. Objectives To conduct a scoping review to characterize current awareness and knowledge among health care providers and the public regarding HCV infection, transmission, prevention and treatment and to identify knowledge gaps that public health action could address. Methods A literature search was conducted using Embase, Medline and Scopus to find studies published between January 2012 and July 2017. A search for grey literature was also undertaken. The following data were extracted: author, year of publication, study design, population, setting, country, method of data collection, and knowledge and awareness outcomes. Commentaries, letters to the editor and narrative reviews were excluded. Results Nineteen studies were included in this review. The definition of awareness and knowledge varied across studies; at times, these terms were used interchangeably. Health care providers identified injection drug use or blood transfusions as routes of HCV transmission more frequently than other routes of transmission such as tattooing with unsterile equipment and sexual transmission. Among the general public, misconceptions about HCV included believing that kissing and casual contact were routes of HCV transmission and that a vaccine to prevent HCV was available. Overall, there was a lack of data on other high-risk populations (e.g., Indigenous, incarcerated). Conclusion Continued public and professional education campaigns about HCV could help support HCV risk-based screening and testing. Future research could assess the awareness of other populations at increased risk and include consistent definitions of awareness and knowledge.
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Brook G, Brockmeyer N, van de Laar T, Schellberg S, Winter AJ. 2017 European guideline for the screening, prevention and initial management of hepatitis B and C infections in sexual health settings. Int J STD AIDS 2018; 29:949-967. [PMID: 29716442 DOI: 10.1177/0956462418767576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
This guideline updates the 2010 European guideline for the management of hepatitis B and C virus infections. It is primarily intended to provide advice on testing, prevention and initial management of viral hepatitis B and C for clinicians working in sexual health clinical settings in European countries. The guideline is in a new question and answer format based on clinical situations, from which population/intervention/comparison/outcome questions were formulated. Updates cover areas such as epidemiology, point-of-care tests for hepatitis B, hepatitis C risk and 'chemsex', and HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis and hepatitis B. We have also included a short paragraph on hepatitis E noting there is no evidence for sexual transmission. The guideline has been prepared in accordance with the Europe protocol for production available at http://www.iusti.org/regions/europe/pdf/2017/ProtocolForProduction2017.pdf.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary Brook
- 1 Genitourinary Medicine, London North West Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Norbert Brockmeyer
- 2 Klinik für Dermatologie, Venerologie und Allergologie, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Thijs van de Laar
- 3 Department of Bloodborne Infections, Sanquin Blood Supply, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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10
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de Groen RA, Groothuismink ZMA, van Oord G, Kootstra NA, Janssen HLA, Prins M, Schinkel J, Boonstra A. NK cells in self-limited HCV infection exhibit a more extensively differentiated, but not memory-like, repertoire. J Viral Hepat 2017; 24:917-926. [PMID: 28414896 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.12716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2016] [Accepted: 04/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells have long been thought of as a purely innate immune cell population, but increasing reports have described developmental and functional qualities of NK cells that are commonly associated with cells of the adaptive immune system. Of these features, the ability of NK cells to acquire functional qualities associated with immunological memory and continuous differentiation resulting in the formation of specific NK cell repertoires has recently been highlighted in viral infection settings. By making use of a unique cohort of monitored, at-risk intravenous drug users in this study, we were able to dissect the phenotypic and functional parameters associated with NK cell differentiation and NK cell memory in patients 3 years after acute HCV infection and either the subsequent self-clearance or progression to chronicity. We observed increased expression of cytolytic mediators and markers CD56bright and NKp46+ of NK cells in patients with chronic, but not self-limited HCV infection. Patients with a self-limited infection expressed higher levels of differentiation-associated markers CD57 and KIRs, and lower levels of NKG2A. A more extensively differentiated NK cell phenotype is associated with self-clearance in HCV patients, while the NK cells of chronic patients exhibited more naïve and effector NK cell phenotypic and functional characteristics. The identification of these distinct NK cell repertoires may shed light on the role NK cells play in determining the outcome of acute HCV infections, and the underlying immunological defects that lead to chronicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- R A de Groen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Z M A Groothuismink
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - G van Oord
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - N A Kootstra
- Department of Research, Cluster of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - H L A Janssen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Liver Clinic University Health Network, Division of Gastroenterology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - M Prins
- Department of Research, Cluster of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J Schinkel
- Section of Clinical Virology, Department of Medical Microbiology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A Boonstra
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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11
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Bourne A, Weatherburn P. Substance use among men who have sex with men: patterns, motivations, impacts and intervention development need. Sex Transm Infect 2017; 93:342-346. [DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2016-052674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2016] [Revised: 01/31/2017] [Accepted: 03/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
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12
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Chan DP, Sun HY, Wong HT, Lee SS, Hung CC. Sexually acquired hepatitis C virus infection: a review. Int J Infect Dis 2016; 49:47-58. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2016.05.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2016] [Revised: 05/26/2016] [Accepted: 05/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
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13
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Factors Associated With Hepatitis C Infection Among HIV-Infected Men Who Have Sex With Men With No Reported Injection Drug Use in New York City, 2000-2010. Sex Transm Dis 2016. [PMID: 26222751 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000000293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C (HCV) infection is a major source of morbidity and mortality among HIV-infected patients. Despite decreasing HCV incidence in the United States, the proportion of cases among men who have sex with men (MSM) without history of injection drug use (IDU) in New York City has more than tripled between 2000 and 2010. METHODS Using matched surveillance data, we identified non-IDU HIV-infected MSM with and without diagnosed HCV. Differences in continuous variables were assessed with Mann-Whitney U tests, and Pearson χ tests were used for categorical variables. Poisson regression was used to compare HCV diagnosis rates by race/ethnicity and sexual transmitted disease history. RESULTS There were 41,303 non-IDU MSM diagnosed as having HIV before 2010 alive as of 2000, of whom 2016 (4.9%) were diagnosed as having HCV after HIV diagnosis. The HCV diagnosis rate was 605/100,000 person-years. Adjusting for birth year and age at HIV diagnosis, Hispanics (rate ratio [RR], 1.4; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.2-1.5) and non-Hispanic blacks (RR, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.4-1.8) had higher HCV diagnosis rates than did non-Hispanic whites. Adjusting for race/ethnicity, birth year, and age at HIV diagnosis, MSM diagnosed as having syphilis (RR, 2.5; 95% CI, 2.3-2.8) had higher HCV diagnosis rates than did those without syphilis. CONCLUSIONS We found a racial/ethnic disparity in HCV diagnosis rates and an association between HCV and syphilis, which is consistent with sexual transmission of HCV. With curative HCV treatment available, emphasis should be placed on adherence to guidelines recommending annual HCV screening for HIV-infected MSM, and education and outreach to MSM to prevent sexually transmitted HCV infections.
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Directly acting antivirals for hepatitis C virus arrive in HIV/hepatitis C virus co-infected patients: from 'mind the gap' to 'where's the gap?'. AIDS 2016; 30:975-89. [PMID: 26836785 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000001042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In patients living with HIV infection with hepatitis C (HCV) is common. HIV/HCV co-infection results in more rapid liver fibrosis progression than HCV alone and end-stage liver disease is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in co-infected patients. Historically, treatment outcomes with interferon based therapy in this group have been poor but with the advent of directly acting antiviral (DAA) drugs for HCV, rates of cure have improved dramatically. This article reviews recent evidence on the treatment of HCV in co-infected patients including the efficacy of new regimens and information on drug-drug interactions between DAAs and antiretroviral therapy. We also discuss the relationship between the pathogenesis of HIV and HCV infections, the treatment of acute hepatitis C and the current debate regarding the cost-effectiveness and affordability of DAAs.
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Hepatitis C Virus Awareness Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in Southwest Switzerland. Sex Transm Dis 2016; 43:44-8. [DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000000378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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Yehia BR, Herati RS, Fleishman JA, Gallant JE, Agwu AL, Berry SA, Korthuis PT, Moore RD, Metlay JP, Gebo KA. Hepatitis C virus testing in adults living with HIV: a need for improved screening efforts. PLoS One 2014; 9:e102766. [PMID: 25032989 PMCID: PMC4102540 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0102766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2014] [Accepted: 06/21/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Guidelines recommend hepatitis C virus (HCV) screening for all people living with HIV (PLWH). Understanding HCV testing practices may improve compliance with guidelines and can help identify areas for future intervention. METHODS We evaluated HCV screening and unnecessary repeat HCV testing in 8,590 PLWH initiating care at 12 U.S. HIV clinics between 2006 and 2010, with follow-up through 2011. Multivariable logistic regression examined the association between patient factors and the outcomes: HCV screening (≥1 HCV antibody tests during the study period) and unnecessary repeat HCV testing (≥1 HCV antibody tests in patients with a prior positive test result). RESULTS Overall, 82% of patients were screened for HCV, 18% of those screened were HCV antibody-positive, and 40% of HCV antibody-positive patients had unnecessary repeat HCV testing. The likelihood of being screened for HCV increased as the number of outpatient visits rose (adjusted odds ratio 1.02, 95% confidence interval 1.01-1.03). Compared to men who have sex with men (MSM), patients with injection drug use (IDU) were less likely to be screened for HCV (0.63, 0.52-0.78); while individuals with Medicaid were more likely to be screened than those with private insurance (1.30, 1.04-1.62). Patients with heterosexual (1.78, 1.20-2.65) and IDU (1.58, 1.06-2.34) risk compared to MSM, and those with higher numbers of outpatient (1.03, 1.01-1.04) and inpatient (1.09, 1.01-1.19) visits were at greatest risk of unnecessary HCV testing. CONCLUSIONS Additional efforts to improve compliance with HCV testing guidelines are needed. Leveraging health information technology may increase HCV screening and reduce unnecessary testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baligh R Yehia
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America; Leonard Davis Institute of Health Economics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Ramin S Herati
- Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - John A Fleishman
- Center for Financing, Access, and Cost Trends, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Joel E Gallant
- Southwest Care Center, Santa Fe, New Mexico, United States of America
| | - Allison L Agwu
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Stephen A Berry
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - P Todd Korthuis
- Department of Medicine, Oregon Health and Sciences University, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Richard D Moore
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Joshua P Metlay
- General Medicine Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Kelly A Gebo
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
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