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Global prevalence of hepatitis C in prisoners: a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis. Arch Virol 2022; 167:1025-1039. [PMID: 35165781 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-022-05382-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV), one of the most significant causes of liver inflammation, has a high annual mortality rate. The unfavorable hygiene conditions and inadequate health monitoring in many prisons increase the risk of blood-borne infections such as hepatitis C. The growing incidence of this disease among prisoners results in overspill transmission to the general population from undiagnosed prisoners that have been released. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of hepatitis C among the world's prison population. A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies on the prevalence of hepatitis C was carried out using the keywords "Prevalence", "Hepatitis C", and "Prisoner" in the Iranian and international databases SID, MagIran, Iran Doc, Science Direct, Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science (WoS) from January 1990 to September 2020. After transferring the articles to the information management software EndNote and eliminating duplicate studies, the remaining studies were reviewed based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, three stages of primary and secondary evaluation, and qualitative evaluation. Comprehensive meta-analysis software and Begg and Mazumdar and I2 tests were used for data analysis and assessment of dissemination bias, and heterogeneity, respectively. Out of 93 studies (22 from Asia, 26 from Europe, seven from Africa, 29 from America, and nine from Australia) with a total sample size of 145,823 subjects, the prevalence of hepatitis C in prisoners worldwide was estimated to be 17.7% (95% confidence interval, 15-20.7%). The highest prevalence of hepatitis C on the continents included in this study was reported in prisoners incarcerated in Australia and Oceania, with 28.4% (95% CI: 21.6-36.4) in nine studies, and Europe, with 25.1% (95% CI: 19.4-31.8) in 26 studies. All studies used an ELISA test for the detection of HCV antibodies. The results showed a prevalence of HCV of 17.7% in prisoners worldwide, ranging between 10 and 30% over five continents (Asia, Europe, America, Africa, and Australia and Oceania). The highest prevalence was reported in Australia and Oceania (28.4%), indicating the need to pay more attention to this issue on the continent. It is necessary to reduce the incidence of the disease in prisons by appropriate policy-making and the development of accurate and practical programs, including the distribution of free syringes and examination, testing, and screening of prisoners.
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Dan-Nwafor CC, Adeoye I, Aderemi K, Onuoha M, Adedire E, Bashorun A, Osunkwo D, Gidado S, Balogun M, Idris S, Ade-Yusuf I, Udom E, Nguku P. Serological markers and risk factors associated with Hepatitis B virus infection among Federal Capital Territory prison inmates, Nigeria: Should we be concerned? PLoS One 2021; 16:e0248045. [PMID: 33705419 PMCID: PMC7951833 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0248045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is hyper-endemic in Nigeria. Prisons are high-risk environments for the spread of infectious diseases. Worldwide, seroprevalence of HBV infection is substantially higher among individuals in correctional facilities when compared to general population. We determined the seroprevalence and risk factors associated with HBV infection among Kuje prison inmates, Nigeria. Material and methods We conducted a prison facility based cross-sectional study. Interviewer administered questionnaires were used to obtain information on participants socio-demographic characteristics, HBV risk factors, previous HBV test and vaccination history. Blood samples collected from participants were analysed for HBsAg, HBsAb, HBcAb, HBeAg and HBeAb markers using rapid lateral chromatographic immunoassay kit. Univariate, bivariate, and multivariate analysis were performed. Results A total of 271 inmates (63 convicts and 208 awaiting trial inmates) were recruited into the study as participants. The mean age of the participants was 32.7 SD±9 years. HBV seroprevalence (HBsAg) of 13.7% (95% CI: 9.8–18.3) was found. 55.4% (95% CI: 49.2–61.4) of inmates were susceptible to HBV infection, 20.7% (95%CI; 16.0–26.0) had past HBV infection while 10.3% (95% CI: 7.0–14.6) had acquired natural or artificial HBV immunity. Factors found to be associated with current HBV infection (HBsAg) include age-group ≤25years (aOR = 8.0,95% CI: 2.9–22.3), being ever married (aOR = 4.2, 95% CI: 1.7–10.4) and history of alcohol consumption (aOR = 3.4, 95% CI: 1.3–8.4). Conclusion This study reveals a high seroprevalence of HBV infection among Kuje Prison inmates, hence the need to introduce prison-focused health intervention initiatives such as HBV screening, vaccination and care to reduce the transmission of HBV infection among inmates and ultimately the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chioma Cindy Dan-Nwafor
- Nigeria Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Programme, Decatur, Georgia, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Ikeola Adeoye
- Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Kehinde Aderemi
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, College of Medicine University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Martins Onuoha
- Nigeria Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Programme, Decatur, Georgia, United States of America
- Nigerian Prisons Service Headquarters, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Elizabeth Adedire
- Nigeria Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Programme, Decatur, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Adebobola Bashorun
- Nigeria Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Programme, Decatur, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Damaris Osunkwo
- Nigeria Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Programme, Decatur, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Saheed Gidado
- Nigeria Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Programme, Decatur, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Muhammad Balogun
- Nigeria Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Programme, Decatur, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Suleiman Idris
- Department of Community Medicine, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria
| | | | - Ekpedeme Udom
- Nigerian Prisons Service Headquarters, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Patrick Nguku
- Nigeria Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Programme, Decatur, Georgia, United States of America
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Okafor IM, Ugwu SO, Okoroiwu HU. Hepatitis C virus infection and its associated factors among prisoners in a Nigerian prison. BMC Gastroenterol 2020; 20:360. [PMID: 33126856 PMCID: PMC7602341 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-020-01504-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The prison population is considered at high risk of acquiring infectious diseases due to confined conditions, behavioral factors, injection drug use, unprotected sexual activity, non-professional tattooing and scarification, and needle sharing. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a blood borne pathogen mostly transmitted via percutaneous exposure that results in inflammation of the liver. It is one of the public health problem worldwide and is the principal cause of parenterally transmitted non-A, non-B hepatitis. The study was aimed at evaluating the prevalence of HCV among prison inmates in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria and the associated factors. Methods The study took a descriptive cross sectional approach using multi-stage sampling technique. One hundred and forty-two (142) prison inmates within the age range of 18–50 years and above were recruited for this study. Result Forty two (42); [29.6%] of the participating prison inmates were seropositive for HCV. Gender stratification showed that 31.0% of the males were seropositive for HCV while 15.4% of the females were seropositive for HCV. Fisher exact test showed that gender, age, marital status, occupation and level of education had no association in distribution of seroprevalence of HCV (p > 0.05) but the duration in prison was significantly associated with distribution of seropositivity of HCV in the studied population (p < 0.05). Bivariate logistic regression showed that tattoo/scarification, injection drug use, history of blood transfusion, sexual experience, shaving equipment sharing and multiple sexual partners were not risk factor for distribution of HCV prevalence in the studied population (p > 0.05). However, 23.5% who had tattoo/scarification, 29.6% who used injection drug, 33.3% who had history of blood transfusion, 29.8% who had sexual experience, 21.2% who shared shaving equipment, and 28.3% who had multiple sex partners were seropositive for HCV. Conclusion Approximately 29.6% prevalence of Hepatitis C virus infection observed among inmates studied is high and calls for concern. Attitude and behaviors by inmates such as tattooing/scarification, injection drugs use, sharing of shaving equipment, multiple sexual partners should be discouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ifeyinwa M Okafor
- Haematology Unit, Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medical Sciences, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria.
| | - Solomon O Ugwu
- Haematology Unit, Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medical Sciences, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
| | - Henshaw U Okoroiwu
- Haematology Unit, Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medical Sciences, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
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Baffoe-Bonnie T, Ntow SK, Awuah-Werekoh K, Adomah-Afari A. Access to a quality healthcare among prisoners - perspectives of health providers of a prison infirmary, Ghana. Int J Prison Health 2019; 15:349-365. [PMID: 31532341 DOI: 10.1108/ijph-02-2019-0014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this paper is to explore the influence of health system factors on access to a quality healthcare among prisoners in Ghana. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH Data were gathered using different qualitative methods (interviews and participant observation) with staff of the James Camp Prison, Accra. Findings were analyzed using a framework method for the thematic analysis of the semi-structured interview data; and interpreted with the theoretical perspective of health systems thinking and innovation. FINDINGS The study concludes that health system factors such as inadequate funding for health services, lack of skilled personnel and a paucity of essential medical supplies and drugs negatively affected the quality of healthcare provided to inmates. RESEARCH LIMITATIONS/IMPLICATIONS The limited facilities available and the sample size (healthcare workers and prison administrators) impeded the achievement of varied views on the topic. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS The paper recommends the need for health policy makers and authorities of the Ghana Prison Service to collaborate and coordinate in a unified way to undertake policy analysis in an effort to reform the prisons healthcare system. SOCIAL IMPLICATIONS The national health insurance scheme was found to be the financing option for prisoners' access to free healthcare with supplementation from the Ghana Prison Service. The study recommends that policy makers and healthcare stakeholders should understand and appreciate the reality that the provision of a quality healthcare for prisoners is part of the entire system of healthcare service delivery in Ghana and as such should be given the needed attention. ORIGINALITY/VALUE This is one of few studies conducted on male only prisoners/prison in the context of Ghana. It recommends the need for an integrated approach to ensure that the entire healthcare system achieves set objectives in response to the primary healthcare concept.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Samuel Kojo Ntow
- Family Medicine, West African Rescue Association, Takoradi, Ghana
| | - Kwasi Awuah-Werekoh
- Business School, Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), Accra, Ghana
| | - Augustine Adomah-Afari
- Department of Health Policy, Planning and Management, University of Ghana , Accra, Ghana
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Lambdin BH, Lorvick J, Mbwambo JK, Rwegasha J, Hassan S, Lum P, Kral AH. Prevalence and predictors of HCV among a cohort of opioid treatment patients in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2017; 45:64-69. [PMID: 28628854 PMCID: PMC6166640 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2017.05.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2016] [Revised: 05/09/2017] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The government of Tanzania launched an opioid treatment program (OTP), using methadone, in Dar es Salaam in February of 2011. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, especially among people who inject drugs (PWID). We conducted a cross-sectional study among PWID engaged in OTP in Dar es Salaam to describe the prevalence and predictors of HCV antibody serostatus. METHODS Routine programmatic data on patients enrolled in Muhimbili National Hospital's OTP clinic from February 2011 to January 2013 were utilized. Multivariable Poisson regression was used to examine factors associated with HCV antibody serostatus. RESULTS A total of 630 PWID enrolled into the OTP clinic during the study period, seven percent of which were women. The overall seroprevalence of HCV antibody was 57% (95% Confidence interval: 53-61%). In adjusted analysis, methadone patients who used heroin for 5-10 years (adjusted prevalence ratio; aPR=1.41; 95% CI: 1.10-1.81) and >10years (aPR=1.48; 95% CI: 1.17-1.88) were more likely to be HCV antibody positive, compared to patients who used heroin for <5years. Patients who reported sharing needles or other equipment at their last injection (aPR=1.20; 95% CI: 1.01-1.41; p=0.022), being arrested (aPR=1.20; 95% CI: 1.04-1.40; p=0.012) and who were HIV-positive (aPR=1.84; 95% CI: 1.56-2.16; p<0.001) were also more likely to be HCV antibody positive than their counterparts. CONCLUSION Our observed HCV antibody prevalence among PWID engaged in OTP is higher than previously reported estimates in Dar es Salaam. Predictors of HCV antibody serostatus in this sample were similar to those found among PWID in many other settings. Integrating HCV care and treatment into OTP clinics should be considered, leveraging lessons learned from the integration of HIV services into OTP. Global efforts to develop HCV care and treatment programs in low and middle-income countries are critical, especially among PWID who have a high burden of HCV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barrot H Lambdin
- RTI-International, San Francisco, CA , United States; University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States; University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States.
| | | | - Jessie K Mbwambo
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - John Rwegasha
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | - Paula Lum
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Alex H Kral
- RTI-International, San Francisco, CA , United States
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Puga MAM, Bandeira LM, Pompilio MA, Croda J, de Rezende GR, Dorisbor LFP, Tanaka TSO, Cesar GA, Teles SA, Simionatto S, Novais ART, Nepomuceno B, Castro LS, do Lago BV, Motta-Castro ARC. Prevalence and Incidence of HCV Infection among Prisoners in Central Brazil. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0169195. [PMID: 28060860 PMCID: PMC5218405 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0169195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2016] [Accepted: 12/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this multicenter, cross sectional study was to assess the prevalence, incidence and associated risk factors among incarcerated populations from twelve Brazilian prisons. The total of 3,368 individuals from twelve prisons was randomly recruited between March 2013 and March 2014. Participants were interviewed, and provided blood samples which were tested for antibodies to Hepatitis C (HCV ab). One year after the first investigation, a cohort study was conducted with 1,656 inmates who participated the cross sectional study. Positive samples were tested for the presence of HCV RNA. Out of 3,368 inmates, 520 (15.4%) were females, and 2,848 (84.6%) were males. The overall prevalence of HCV was 2.4% (95% CI: 1.9 to 2.9), with 0.6% (95% CI: 0.4 to 0.8) in females, and 2.7% (95% CI: 2.1 to 3.3) in males (p<0.01). HCV RNA was detected in 51/80 (63.7%) samples. Among men prisoners, multivariate analysis of associated factors showed independent associations between HCV exposure and increasing age, inject drug use, length of incarceration, smoking hashish, sharing needle and syringe and HIV positivity. During the cohort study, 7/1,656 new cases of HCV infection were detected, and the incidence rate was 0.4/100 person-year. Once high frequency rates of specific HCV risk behaviors and new HCV infections have been identified inside prisons, effective interventions strategies such as screening, clinical evaluation and treatment to reduce the spread of HCV infection are essential.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Julio Croda
- Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Mato Grosso do Sul, MS, Brazil
- Federal University of Grande Dourados, Dourados, MS, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Bruna Nepomuceno
- Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil
| | | | | | - Ana Rita Coimbra Motta-Castro
- Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil
- Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Mato Grosso do Sul, MS, Brazil
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Sequera VG, Valencia S, García-Basteiro AL, Marco A, Bayas JM. Vaccinations in prisons: A shot in the arm for community health. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2015; 11:2615-26. [PMID: 26158401 PMCID: PMC4685700 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2015.1051269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2015] [Revised: 04/27/2015] [Accepted: 05/10/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
From the first day of imprisonment, prisoners are exposed to and expose other prisoners to various communicable diseases, many of which are vaccine-preventable. The risk of acquiring these diseases during the prison sentence exceeds that of the general population. This excess risk may be explained by various causes; some due to the structural and logistical problems of prisons and others to habitual or acquired behaviors during imprisonment. Prison is, for many inmates, an opportunity to access health care, and is therefore an ideal opportunity to update adult vaccination schedules. The traditional idea that prisons are intended to ensure public safety should be complemented by the contribution they can make in improving community health, providing a more comprehensive vision of safety that includes public health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Salomé Valencia
- Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology Service; Hospital Clínic of Barcelona; Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alberto L García-Basteiro
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Ctr. Int. Health Res. (CRESIB); Hospital Clínic - Universitat de Barcelona, Rossello, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigação em Saude de Manhiça (CISM); Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Andrés Marco
- Health Services of Barcelona Men's Penitentiary Center; Barcelona, Spain
| | - José M Bayas
- Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology Service; Hospital Clínic of Barcelona; Barcelona, Spain
- ISGlobal, Barcelona Ctr. Int. Health Res. (CRESIB); Hospital Clínic - Universitat de Barcelona, Rossello, Barcelona, Spain
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Falquetto TC, Endringer DC, Andrade TUD, Lenz D. Hepatitis C in prisoners and non-prisoners in Colatina, Espírito Santo, Brazil. BRAZ J PHARM SCI 2013. [DOI: 10.1590/s1984-82502013000400013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present work was to compare hepatitis C prevalence, genotypes, and risk factors between prisoners and non-prisoners in the city of Colatina, Espírito Santo, Brazil. This cross-sectional study involved approximately 1,600 residents and 730 prisoners, all of whom were living in Colatina. The percentage of individuals who tested positive for anti-HCV was 0.1% (2/1,600) in the non-prisoner group and 1.0% (7/730) in the prisoner group, confirming a higher risk of hepatitis C in the latter group. The percentage of subjects who progressed to HCV-RNA negative was 11.1% (1/9), confirming the high probability of evolution to chronicity. Genotype 1 was the most predominant genotype found. Factors associated with increased risk of hepatitis C were being male, being institutionalized, having an income of less than three minimum wages, having low educational attainment, and using injected drugs. Alcohol use, pain in the liver, migraine, and reported history of hepatitis were markedly associated with hepatitis C. The prison population tested positive for anti-HCV at a higher rate than the non-prison population.
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Mohamed HI, Saad ZM, Abd-Elreheem EM, Abd-ElGhany WM, Mohamed MS, Abd Elnaeem EA, Seedhom AE. Hepatitis C, hepatitis B and HIV infection among Egyptian prisoners: seroprevalence, risk factors and related chronic liver diseases. J Infect Public Health 2013; 6:186-95. [PMID: 23668463 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2012.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2012] [Revised: 12/07/2012] [Accepted: 12/15/2012] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Prisons in Egypt do not currently screen for blood-borne viruses, and there are no statistics concerning the prevalence of hepatitis C virus, hepatitis B virus or human immunodeficiency virus among prisoners. This study was performed to detect the prevalence of antibodies against hepatitis C, hepatitis B core and human immunodeficiency virus among Egyptian prisoners. METHODS The study was conducted in an Egyptian prison. The prisoners voluntarily completed a risk factor questionnaire and provided blood specimens for testing for antibodies against hepatitis C virus, hepatitis B virus core antigen and human immunodeficiency virus. Positive results were confirmed by the detecting HCV RNA via polymerase chain reaction. Multivariate regression analysis was performed to determine the factors that were independently associated with positive HCV serology. RESULTS Five hundred resident prisoners were screened. The prevalence of hepatitis C virus antibodies was 15.8% (79/500), and viremia was confirmed by PCR in 77.2% (61/79) of the antibody-positive prisoners. The prevalence of antibodies to hepatitis B core antigen was 9.8% (49/500), and 1.2% (6/500) of prisoners were dually infected with HBV and HCV. Antibodies to human immunodeficiency virus were not detected in any of the prisoners. The best predictor for hepatitis C and hepatitis B infection was a history of intravenous drug use (P<0.011 for HBV and P<0.001 for HCV), a period of >10 years spent in prison (P<0.052 for HBV and P<0.021 for HCV) and shared toiletries (P<0.059 for HBV and P<0.002 for HCV). CONCLUSION Hepatitis C and hepatitis B virus infections constitute an important public health problem in prisons. Public health strategies to prevent morbidity and mortality from these infections should include hepatitis B vaccination, HCV testing, counseling and medical management of infected prisoners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hala I Mohamed
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Minia University, Egypt.
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MUSHAYABASA S, BHUNU CP, MAGOMBEDZE G, STEWART AGR. ON THE ROLE OF SCREENING AND EDUCATIONAL CAMPAIGNS ON CONTROLLING HCV IN CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTIONS. J BIOL SYST 2013. [DOI: 10.1142/s0218339013500071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) is higher among prison inmates compared with the general population because of the high proportion of intravenous drug misusers. In this paper, a mathematical model for the spread of HCV in correctional institutions is developed and analyzed. The impact of educational campaigns and screening of HCV infected individuals is examined. In the presence of screening, the study suggests that targeted education campaigns of more than 50% will be highly effective in controlling the sharing of injection equipment among intravenous drug users, thereby reducing HCV prevalence within the correctional institutions. Further, we applied optimal control theory to the proposed model. The controls represent educational campaigns and screening. The objective is based on minimizing cumulative latent and infectious cases within the correctional institution, while maximizing the number of susceptible nonintravenous drug misusers. The optimal control is characterized and numerically solved. Overall, the application of optimal control theory in this study suggests that, more effort should be devoted to educational campaigns compared to screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. MUSHAYABASA
- Department of Mathematics, University of Zimbabwe, P.O. Box MP 167, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - C. P. BHUNU
- Department of Mathematics, University of Zimbabwe, P.O. Box MP 167, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - G. MAGOMBEDZE
- National Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - A. G. R. STEWART
- Department of Mathematics, University of Zimbabwe, P.O. Box MP 167, Harare, Zimbabwe
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Peña-Orellana M, Hernández-Viver A, Caraballo-Correa G, Albizu-García CE. Prevalence of HCV risk behaviors among prison inmates: tattooing and injection drug use. J Health Care Poor Underserved 2011; 22:962-82. [PMID: 21841290 DOI: 10.1353/hpu.2011.0084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the most common blood-borne chronic viral infection in the United States and it is over represented in incarcerated populations. This study estimates if in prison tattooing is associated with self reported HCV infection in a probabilistic sample of 1,331 sentenced inmates in Puerto Rico prisons anonymously surveyed in 2004, who had previously been tested for HCV. Analysis were carried out with the total sample and among non-injectors (n=796) to control for injection drug use (IDU) and other confounders. Nearly 60% of inmates had acquired tattoos in prison. HCV was reported by 27% of subjects in the total sample and by 12% of non-injectors who had undergone tattoos in prison. IDU was the strongest predictor of HCV in the total sample (OR=5.6, 95% CI=3.2-9.7). Among non injectors, tattooing with reused needles or sharp objects and/ or reusing ink was positively associated with HCV self-report (OR=2.6, 95% CI=1.3-5.5). Tattooing is a common occurrence in this prison setting. Findings suggest that preventive interventions are required to reduce the risk of HCV transmission through unsterile tattooing and injection practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisol Peña-Orellana
- Center for Evaluation and Sociomedical Research, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
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Santos BFDO, Santana NOD, Franca AVC. Prevalence, genotypes and factors associated with HCV infection among prisoners in Northeastern Brazil. World J Gastroenterol 2011; 17:3027-34. [PMID: 21799649 PMCID: PMC3132254 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v17.i25.3027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2010] [Revised: 02/15/2011] [Accepted: 02/22/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To determine hepatitis C virus (HCV) seroprevalence and its genotypes, and to identify the factors associated with HCV infection.
METHODS: This cross-sectional study, conducted in two prisons (one male and one female) in the State of Sergipe, Brazil, comprised 422 subjects. All of the prisoners underwent a rapid test for the detection of HCV antibodies. Patients with a positive result were tested for anti-HCV by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay and for HCV RNA by qualitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The virus genotype was defined in every serum sample that presented positive for PCR-HCV. In order to determine the factors independently associated with positive serology for HCV, multivariate logistic regression was used.
RESULTS: HCV seroprevalence was 3.1%. Of the 13 subjects with positive anti-HCV, 11 had viremia confirmed by PCR. Of these, 90.9% had genotype 1. A total of 43 (10.2%) were injecting drug users, and HCV seroprevalence in this subgroup was 20.6%. The variable most strongly associated with positive serology for HCV was use of injecting drugs [odds ratio (OR), 23.3; 95% confidence interval (CI), 6.0-90.8]. Age over 30 years (OR, 5.5; 95%CI, 1.1-29.2), history of syphilis (OR, 9.8; 95%CI, 1.7-55.2) and history of household contact with HCV positive individual (OR, 14.1; 95%CI, 2.3-85.4) were also independently associated with HCV infection.
CONCLUSION: Most of the HCV transmissions result from parenteral exposure. However, there is evidence to suggest a role for sex and household contact with an infected subject in virus transmission.
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Kheirandish P, SeyedAlinaghi S, Jahani M, Shirzad H, Seyed Ahmadian M, Majidi A, Sharifi A, Hosseini M, Mohraz M, McFarland W. Prevalence and correlates of hepatitis C infection among male injection drug users in detention, Tehran, Iran. J Urban Health 2009; 86:902-8. [PMID: 19844670 PMCID: PMC2791818 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-009-9393-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
For the benefit of planning for the future care and treatment of people infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and to help guide prevention and control programs, data are needed on HCV seroprevalence and associated risk factors. We conducted a cross-sectional sero-behavioral survey of injection drug users (IDU) detained for mandatory rehabilitation during a police sweep of Tehran, Iran, in early 2006. During the study period, a consecutive sample comprising 454 of 499 (91.0%) men arrested and determined to be IDU by urine test and physical examination consented to a face-to-face interview and blood collection for HCV antibody testing. Overall, HCV prevalence was 80.0% (95% confidence interval (CI) 76.2-83.6). Factors independently associated with HCV infection included history of incarceration (adjusted OR 4.35, 95% CI 1.88-10.08), age of first injection < or =25 years (OR 2.72, 95% CI 1.09-6.82), and history of tattooing (OR 2.33, 95% CI 1.05-5.17). HCV prevalence in this population of IDU upon intake to jail was extremely high and possibly approaching saturation. Findings support that incarceration is contributing to the increased spread of HCV infection in Iran and calls for urgent increased availability of HCV treatment, long-term preparation for the care of complications of chronic infection, and rapid scale-up of programs for the primary prevention of parenterally transmitted infections among drug users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parastoo Kheirandish
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS (IRCHA), Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Reid SR. Injection drug use, unsafe medical injections, and HIV in Africa: a systematic review. Harm Reduct J 2009; 6:24. [PMID: 19715601 PMCID: PMC2741434 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7517-6-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2009] [Accepted: 08/28/2009] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The reuse of injecting equipment in clinical settings is well documented in Africa and appears to play a substantial role in generalized HIV epidemics. The U.S. and the WHO have begun to support large scale injection safety interventions, increased professional education and training programs, and the development and wider dissemination of infection control guidelines. Several African governments have also taken steps to control injecting equipment, including banning syringes that can be reused.However injection drug use (IDU), of heroin and stimulants, is a growing risk factor for acquiring HIV in the region. IDU is increasingly common among young adults in sub-Saharan Africa and is associated with high risk sex, thus linking IDU to the already well established and concentrated generalized HIV epidemics in the region. Demand reduction programs based on effective substance use education and drug treatment services are very limited, and imprisonment is more common than access to drug treatment services.Drug policies are still very punitive and there is widespread misunderstanding of and hostility to harm reduction programs e.g. needle exchange programs are almost non-existent in the region. Among injection drug users and among drug treatment patients in Africa, knowledge that needle sharing and syringe reuse transmit HIV is still very limited, in contrast with the more successfully instilled knowledge that HIV is transmitted sexually. These new injection risks will take on increased epidemiological significance over the coming decade and will require much more attention by African nations to the range of effective harm reduction tools now available in Europe, Asia, and North America.
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Affiliation(s)
- Savanna R Reid
- School of Community Health Sciences, University of Nevada at Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, USA.
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Adjei AA, Armah HB, Gbagbo F, Ampofo WK, Boamah I, Adu-Gyamfi C, Asare I, Hesse IFA, Mensah G. Correlates of HIV, HBV, HCV and syphilis infections among prison inmates and officers in Ghana: A national multicenter study. BMC Infect Dis 2008; 8:33. [PMID: 18328097 PMCID: PMC2311310 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2334-8-33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2007] [Accepted: 03/07/2008] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Prisons are known to be high-risk environments for the spread of bloodborne and sexually transmitted infections. Prison officers are considered to have an intermittent exposure potential to bloodborne infectious diseases on the job, however there has been no studies on the prevalence of these infections in prison officers in Ghana. Methods A national multicenter cross-sectional study was undertaken on correlates of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and syphilis infections in sample of prison inmates and officers from eight of ten regional central prisons in Ghana. A total of 1366 inmates and 445 officers were enrolled between May 2004 and December 2005. Subjects completed personal risk-factor questionnaire and provided blood specimens for unlinked anonymous testing for presence of antibodies to HIV, HCV and Treponema pallidum; and surface antigen of HBV (HBsAg). These data were analyzed using both univariate and multivariate techniques. Results Almost 18% (1336) of 7652 eligible inmates and 21% (445) of 2139 eligible officers in eight study prisons took part. Median ages of inmates and officers were 36.5 years (range 16–84) and 38.1 years (range 25–59), respectively. Among inmates, HIV seroprevalence was 5.9%, syphilis seroprevalence was 16.5%, and 25.5% had HBsAg. Among officers tested, HIV seroprevalence was 4.9%, HCV seroprevalence was 18.7%, syphilis seroprevalence was 7.9%, and 11.7% had HBsAg. Independent determinants for HIV, HBV and syphilis infections among inmates were age between 17–46, being unmarried, being illiterate, female gender, being incarcerated for longer than median time served of 36 months, history of homosexuality, history of intravenous drug use, history of sharing syringes and drug paraphernalia, history of participation in paid sexual activity, and history of sexually transmitted diseases. Independent determinants for HIV, HBV, HCV and syphilis infections among officers were age between 25–46, fale gender, being unmarried, being employed in prison service for longer than median duration of employment of 10 years, and history of sexually transmitted diseases. Conclusion The comparably higher prevalence of HIV, HBV, HCV and syphilis in prison inmates and officers in Ghana suggests probable occupational related transmission. The implementation of infection control practices and risk reduction programs targeted at prison inmates and officers in Ghana is urgently required to address this substantial exposure risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew A Adjei
- Department of Pathology, University of Ghana Medical School, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana.
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Seroprevalence of and Risk Factors Associated With Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and Human Immunodeficiency Virus Among Prisoners in Iran. INFECTIOUS DISEASES IN CLINICAL PRACTICE 2007. [DOI: 10.1097/ipc.0b013e318142ce16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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