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Kahn B, Kazatchkine M. Europe must continue to lead on harm reduction. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:172. [PMID: 39300436 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-01067-x] [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: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Europe has been at the forefront of harm reduction since its inception. These important early steps were in large part a response to the dramatically expanding HIV epidemic, and investing in these innovative interventions early and robustly had a transformative effect. This brought about not just pioneering services but also pioneering policy changes. However, while Western Europe and Member States in the European Union often have been at the vanguard of harm reduction innovation and vocal advocates for public health and human rights-based drug policy reform, the situation has been much different in the "wider" WHO European region, which also includes Eastern and Southeastern Europe as well as Central Asia. This is a result not just of limited budgets for health, but also of punitive laws and policies and persistent stigma and discrimination. Even as harm reduction has demonstrated huge successes in Europe, there is a need to move forward a wider array of services to respond to an evolving and increasingly complex drug situation in Europe. Instead, it is a lack of political will and of political courage that is holding back the establishment, expansion, and deepening of these essential, lifesaving interventions. Responding proactively and effectively to this changing drug situation will require redoubled investment in public health and harm reduction approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan Kahn
- Department of Political Science, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
- Global Commission on Drug Policy, Geneva, Switzerland.
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2
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Hall EW, Sullivan PS, Bradley H. Estimated Number of Injection-Involved Overdose Deaths in US States From 2000 to 2020: Secondary Analysis of Surveillance Data. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2024; 10:e49527. [PMID: 38578676 PMCID: PMC11031697 DOI: 10.2196/49527] [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: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the United States, both drug overdose mortality and injection-involved drug overdose mortality have increased nationally over the past 25 years. Despite documented geographic differences in overdose mortality and substances implicated in overdose mortality trends, injection-involved overdose mortality has not been summarized at a subnational level. OBJECTIVE We aimed to estimate the annual number of injection-involved overdose deaths in each US state from 2000 to 2020. METHODS We conducted a stratified analysis that used data from drug treatment admissions (Treatment Episodes Data Set-Admissions; TEDS-A) and the National Vital Statistics System (NVSS) to estimate state-specific percentages of reported drug overdose deaths that were injection-involved from 2000 to 2020. TEDS-A collects data on the route of administration and the type of substance used upon treatment admission. We used these data to calculate the percentage of reported injections for each drug type by demographic group (race or ethnicity, sex, and age group), year, and state. Additionally, using NVSS mortality data, the annual number of overdose deaths involving selected drug types was identified by the following specific multiple-cause-of-death codes: heroin or synthetic opioids other than methadone (T40.1, T40.4), natural or semisynthetic opioids and methadone (T40.2, T40.3), cocaine (T40.5), psychostimulants with abuse potential (T43.6), sedatives (T42.3, T42.4), and others (T36-T59.0). We used the probabilities of injection with the annual number of overdose deaths, by year, primary substance, and demographic groups to estimate the number of overdose deaths that were injection-involved. RESULTS In 2020, there were 91,071 overdose deaths among adults recorded in the United States, and 93.1% (84,753/91,071) occurred in the 46 jurisdictions that reported data to TEDS-A. Slightly less than half (38,253/84,753, 45.1%; 95% CI 41.1%-49.8%) of those overdose deaths were estimated to be injection-involved, translating to 38,253 (95% CI 34,839-42,181) injection-involved overdose deaths in 2020. There was large variation among states in the estimated injection-involved overdose death rate (median 14.72, range 5.45-31.77 per 100,000 people). The national injection-involved overdose death rate increased by 323% (95% CI 255%-391%) from 2010 (3.78, 95% CI 3.33-4.31) to 2020 (15.97, 95% CI 14.55-17.61). States in which the estimated injection-involved overdose death rate increased faster than the national average were disproportionately concentrated in the Northeast region. CONCLUSIONS Although overdose mortality and injection-involved overdose mortality have increased dramatically across the country, these trends have been more pronounced in some regions. A better understanding of state-level trends in injection-involved mortality can inform the prioritization of public health strategies that aim to reduce overdose mortality and prevent downstream consequences of injection drug use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric William Hall
- OHSU-PSU School of Public Health, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Patrick Sean Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Heather Bradley
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
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Walker S, Curtis M, Kirwan A, Thatcher R, Dietze P. "No-one just does drugs during business hours!": evaluation of a 24/7 primary needle and syringe program in St Kilda, Australia. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:51. [PMID: 38402389 PMCID: PMC10894474 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-00960-9] [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] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary needle and syringe programs (NSPs) have been integral for the prevention of blood-borne virus (BBV) transmission among people who inject drugs. Despite this, many people who inject drugs face barriers accessing these services, particularly after-hours when most services are closed. To our knowledge, the St Kilda NSP, in Melbourne, Victoria, is the only primary NSP providing 24/7 dedicated stand-alone face-to-face services for people who inject drugs in Australia. We conducted an evaluation of the St Kilda NSP to assess its role and effectiveness in meeting client needs. METHODS Mixed research methods were used to conduct the evaluation. We analysed four quantitative data sets including the Victorian Needle and Syringe Program Information System data; NSP 'snapshot' survey data; and St Kilda NSP records of after-hours contacts and naloxone training events. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 20 purposively selected NSP clients, which were focused on individual needs, expectations and experiences accessing the service. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed, and data were analysed thematically. A convergent research design was used to merge the five data sets. RESULTS St Kilda NSP had 39,898 service contacts in 2018; 72% of contacts occurred outside business hours. Similarly, of 1,185,000 sterile needles and syringes dispatched, 71% were distributed outside business hours. Participants described valuing the after-hours service because drug use patterns did not always align with standard NSP opening hours and after-hours access afforded anonymity when collecting injecting equipment. Narratives highlighted several additional benefits of the 24/7 service, including: access to safer sex equipment; material support; naloxone training; referrals to specialist services; face-to-face emotional and social support from a non-judging worker; and for women involved in sex work in particular, being able to seek refuge when feeling unsafe on the streets. CONCLUSIONS Our study provides evidence of the social and health benefits (beyond that of preventing BBV transmission) that can be gained through the provision of 24/7 primary NSP services. Findings support the need for the establishment of after-hours primary NSPs in other areas of Australia where active street-based drug markets operate outside business hours and concentrated numbers of people who inject drugs live and spend time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelley Walker
- National Drug Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Michael Curtis
- National Drug Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Amy Kirwan
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rebecca Thatcher
- Access Health & 24/7 Needle and Syringe Program, Alcohol, Drugs and Other Addictions Stream, Victoria Social Mission Department, The Salvation Army Australian Territory, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul Dietze
- National Drug Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Monash Addiction Research Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Shih STF, Stone J, Martin NK, Hajarizadeh B, Cunningham EB, Kwon JA, McGrath C, Grant L, Grebely J, Dore GJ, Lloyd AR, Vickerman P, Chambers GM. Scale-up of Direct-Acting Antiviral Treatment in Prisons Is Both Cost-effective and Key to Hepatitis C Virus Elimination. Open Forum Infect Dis 2024; 11:ofad637. [PMID: 38344130 PMCID: PMC10854215 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofad637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The Surveillance and Treatment of Prisoners With Hepatitis C (SToP-C) study demonstrated that scaling up of direct-acting antiviral (DAA) treatment reduced hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission. We evaluated the cost-effectiveness of scaling up HCV treatment in statewide prison services incorporating long-term outcomes across custodial and community settings. Methods A dynamic model of incarceration and HCV transmission among people who inject drugs (PWID) in New South Wales, Australia, was extended to include former PWID and those with long-term HCV progression. Using Australian costing data, we estimated the cost-effectiveness of scaling up HCV treatment in prisons by 44% (as achieved by the SToP-C study) for 10 years (2021-2030) before reducing to baseline levels, compared to a status quo scenario. The mean incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was estimated by comparing the differences in costs and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) between the scale-up and status quo scenarios over 40 years (2021-2060) discounted at 5% per annum. Univariate and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed. Results Scaling up HCV treatment in the statewide prison service is projected to be cost-effective with a mean ICER of A$12 968/QALY gained. The base-case scenario gains 275 QALYs over 40 years at a net incremental cost of A$3.6 million. Excluding DAA pharmaceutical costs, the mean ICER is reduced to A$6 054/QALY. At the willingness-to-pay threshold of A$50 000/QALY, 100% of simulations are cost-effective at various discount rates, time horizons, and changes of treatment levels in prison and community. Conclusions Scaling up HCV testing and treatment in prisons is highly cost-effective and should be considered a priority in the national elimination strategy. Clinical Trials Registration NCT02064049.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophy T F Shih
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jack Stone
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Natasha K Martin
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Behzad Hajarizadeh
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Evan B Cunningham
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jisoo A Kwon
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Colette McGrath
- Justice Health and Forensic Mental Health Network, New South Wales Health, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Luke Grant
- Corrective Services New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jason Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Gregory J Dore
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Andrew R Lloyd
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Peter Vickerman
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Georgina M Chambers
- National Perinatal Epidemiology and Statistics Unit, Centre for Big Data Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Kameg BN, Lepore M, Burkart R, Mitchell A. Prioritizing Harm Reduction Services to Reduce the Burden of Substance Use: A Joint Position Statement of the International Society of Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurses and the International Nurses Society on Addictions-USA Chapter. J Addict Nurs 2023; 34:280-283. [PMID: 38015579 DOI: 10.1097/jan.0000000000000557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
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6
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Kavanagh ON, Machado TC. A method of diamorphine (heroin) administration for harm reduction. Harm Reduct J 2023; 20:44. [PMID: 36998076 PMCID: PMC10061844 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-023-00758-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
As societal attitudes toward narcotics have changed, harm reduction strategies have emerged which make it safer to inject intravenous drugs. Diamorphine (heroin) is commonly sold as its free base-better known as brown-which has extremely poor aqueous solubility. As such, it needs to be chemically modified (cooked) to enable administration. Needle exchange programmes commonly supply citric or ascorbic acids which facilitate intravenous administration by increasing heroin solubility. If heroin users mistakenly add too much acid, the low solution pH can cause damage to their veins and, after repeated injury, could result in the loss of that injection site. Currently, advice cards supplied with these exchange kits suggest that the acid should be measured in pinches, which could result in considerable error. This work employs Henderson-Hasselbalch models to analyse the risk of venous damage by placing solution pH within the context of the buffer capacity of the blood. These models also highlight the significant risk of heroin supersaturation and precipitation within the vein, an event that has the potential to cause further harm to the user. This perspective closes with a modified administration method which could be included as part of a wider harm reduction package.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oisín N Kavanagh
- School of Pharmacy, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
| | - Tatiane C Machado
- School of Pharmacy, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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Bradley H, Hall EW, Asher A, Furukawa NW, Jones CM, Shealey J, Buchacz K, Handanagic S, Crepaz N, Rosenberg ES. Estimated Number of People Who Inject Drugs in the United States. Clin Infect Dis 2023; 76:96-102. [PMID: 35791261 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciac543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Public health data signal increases in the number of people who inject drugs (PWID) in the United States during the past decade. An updated PWID population size estimate is critical for informing interventions and policies aiming to reduce injection-associated infections and overdose, as well as to provide a baseline for assessments of pandemic-related changes in injection drug use. METHODS We used a modified multiplier approach to estimate the number of adults who injected drugs in the United States in 2018. We deduced the estimated number of nonfatal overdose events among PWID from 2 of our previously published estimates: the number of injection-involved overdose deaths and the meta-analyzed ratio of nonfatal to fatal overdose. The number of nonfatal overdose events was divided by prevalence of nonfatal overdose among current PWID for a population size estimate. RESULTS There were an estimated 3 694 500 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1 872 700-7 273 300) PWID in the United States in 2018, representing 1.46% (95% CI, .74-2.87) of the adult population. The estimated prevalence of injection drug use was highest among males (2.1%; 95% CI, 1.1-4.2), non-Hispanic Whites (1.8%; 95% CI, .9-3.6), and adults aged 18-39 years (1.8%; 95% CI, .9-3.6). CONCLUSIONS Using transparent, replicable methods and largely publicly available data, we provide the first update to the number of people who inject drugs in the United States in nearly 10 years. Findings suggest the population size of PWID has substantially grown in the past decade and that prevention services for PWID should be proportionally increased.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather Bradley
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Georgia State University School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Eric W Hall
- Oregon Health Sciences University/Portland State University School of Public Health, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Alice Asher
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Nathan W Furukawa
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Christopher M Jones
- National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jalissa Shealey
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Georgia State University School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Kate Buchacz
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Senad Handanagic
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Nicole Crepaz
- National Center for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Eli S Rosenberg
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University at Albany School of Public Health, SUNY, Albany, New York, USA.,Office of Public Health, New York State Department of Public Health, Albany, New York, USA
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8
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Trickey A, Walker JG, Bivegete S, Semchuk N, Saliuk T, Varetska O, Stone J, Vickerman P. Impact and cost-effectiveness of non-governmental organizations on the HIV epidemic in Ukraine among MSM. AIDS 2022; 36:2025-2034. [PMID: 36305181 PMCID: PMC7613764 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Ukraine have provided HIV testing, treatment, and condom distribution for MSM. HIV prevalence among MSM in Ukraine is 5.6%. We estimated the impact and cost-effectiveness of MSM-targeted NGO activities in Ukraine. DESIGN A mathematical model of HIV transmission among MSM was calibrated to data from Ukraine (2011-2018). METHODS The model, designed before the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, evaluated the impact of 2018 status quo coverage levels of 28% of MSM being NGO clients over 2016-2020 and 2021-2030 compared with no NGO activities over these time periods. Impact was measured in HIV incidence and infections averted. We compared the costs and disability adjusted life years (DALYs) for the status quo and a counterfactual scenario (no NGOs 2016-2020, but with NGOs thereafter) until 2030 to estimate the mean incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (cost per DALY averted). RESULTS Without NGO activity over 2016-2020, the HIV incidence in 2021 would have been 44% (95% credibility interval: 36-59%) higher than with status quo levels of NGO activity, with 25% (21-30%) more incident infections occurring over 2016-2020. Continuing with status quo NGO coverage levels will decrease HIV incidence by 41% over 2021-2030, whereas it will increase by 79% (60-120%) with no NGOs over this period and 37% (30-51%) more HIV infections will occur. Compared with if NGO activities had ceased over 2016-2020 (but continued thereafter), the status quo scenario averts 14 918 DALYs over 2016-2030 with a mean incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of US$600.15 per DALY averted. CONCLUSION MSM-targeted NGOs in Ukraine have prevented considerable HIV infections and are highly cost-effective compared with a willingness-to-pay threshold of 50% of Ukraine's 2018 GDP (US$1548).
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Trickey
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Sandra Bivegete
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation at University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | | | | | - Jack Stone
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation at University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Peter Vickerman
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation at University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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Carswell N, Angermaier G, Castaneda C, Delgado F. Management of opioid withdrawal and initiation of medications for opioid use disorder in the hospital setting. Hosp Pract (1995) 2022; 50:251-258. [PMID: 35837678 DOI: 10.1080/21548331.2022.2102776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Opioid use disorder (OUD) has become increasingly prevalent among hospitalized patients in the United States and globally. As its prevalence increases, this provides a valuable opportunity for clinicians in the hospital setting to engage and initiate management and treatment of OUD. This article aims to provide hospitalists and other clinicians working in the hospital with a narrative review of the management of opioid withdrawal and the initiation of medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) in the hospital and provide an update on a novel low dose approach to buprenorphine induction (also commonly referred to as the "microinduction" method). Management can initially include treating withdrawal symptoms with opioids as well as with a combination of non-opioid medications such as alpha 2 agonists, benzodiazepines, and/or antiemetics as needed. Besides simply managing withdrawal symptoms, clinicians can further improve the care of patients with OUD through initiating maintenance treatment with MOUD, ideally with opioids used in the initial management of withdrawal. Opioid detoxification is an inferior method of primary treatment and is associated with relapse and poor outcomes. In contrast, treatment with MOUD using methadone or buprenorphine is associated with superior treatment outcomes and reduced relapse compared to detoxification alone. Treatment with MOUD using methadone or buprenorphine can be successfully used in the hospital setting. A novel low dose approach to buprenorphine induction may be useful in minimizing precipitated withdrawals in patients who have recently used or received opioids, which makes this an attractive option in the hospital where patients are frequently on opioids for acutely painful conditions. The hospital setting also provides a valuable opportunity for clinicians to address harm reduction in patients with OUD. Finally, clinicians can improve the long-term outcomes of patients with OUD by ensuring a smooth discharge with adequate and timely follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nico Carswell
- Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX, USA
| | - Giselle Angermaier
- Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX, USA
| | - Christopher Castaneda
- Department of Psychiatry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX, USA
| | - Fabrizzio Delgado
- Department of Psychiatry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX, USA
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10
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The Cost-Effectiveness of HIV/STI Prevention in High-Income Countries with Concentrated Epidemic Settings: A Scoping Review. AIDS Behav 2022; 26:2279-2298. [PMID: 35034238 PMCID: PMC9163023 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-022-03583-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this scoping review is to establish the state of the art on economic evaluations in the field of HIV/STI prevention in high-income countries with concentrated epidemic settings and to assess what we know about the cost-effectiveness of different measures. We reviewed economic evaluations of HIV/STI prevention measures published in the Web of Science and Cost-Effectiveness Registry databases. We included a total of 157 studies focusing on structural, behavioural, and biomedical interventions, covering a variety of contexts, target populations and approaches. The majority of studies are based on mathematical modelling and demonstrate that the preventive measures under scrutiny are cost-effective. Interventions targeted at high-risk populations yield the most favourable results. The generalisability and transferability of the study results are limited due to the heterogeneity of the populations, settings and methods involved. Furthermore, the results depend heavily on modelling assumptions. Since evidence is unequally distributed, we discuss implications for future research.
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11
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Uthurralt N, McGlinn A, O'Donnell M, Haber PS, Day CA. The impact of a 24-hour syringe dispensing machine on a face-to-face needle and syringe program and targeted primary healthcare clinic. Aust N Z J Public Health 2022; 46:524-526. [PMID: 35679052 DOI: 10.1111/1753-6405.13267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Automatic syringe dispensing machines (ADM) have become an important adjunct to Australia's needle and syringe programs (NSP). However, concerns that they reduce face-to-face contact with health staff and other health interventions remain. We examined changes in the number of needle/syringes dispensed at an ADM and occasions of service at a co-located face-to-face NSP and targeted primary healthcare clinic during the first wave of COVID-19 restrictions. METHODS We reviewed data from an inner-city harm reduction program during the study period of April 2020 to March 2021 compared to the previous year. Multivariable linear regression models were used to estimate the association between occasions of service and equipment distribution. RESULTS ADM-dispensed equipment increased significantly by 41.1%, while face-to-face NSP occasions decreased by 16.2%. Occasions provided by the targeted primary healthcare clinic increased by 59.7% per month. CONCLUSION We have shown that 24-hour ADM access did not adversely affect the number of people using targeted primary healthcare when provided within close proximity. Implication for public health: These findings reinforce the demand for 24-hour needle/syringe access and can be used to support the expanded access to ADMs, especially where people who inject drugs (PWID) have access to appropriate healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Uthurralt
- Drug Health Services, Sydney Local Health District, New South Wales.,Specialty of Addiction Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, New South Wales
| | - Anica McGlinn
- Drug Health Services, Sydney Local Health District, New South Wales
| | - Martin O'Donnell
- Drug Health Services, Sydney Local Health District, New South Wales.,Edith Collins Centre (Translational Research in Alcohol, Drugs and Toxicology), Sydney Local Health District, New South Wales
| | - Paul S Haber
- Drug Health Services, Sydney Local Health District, New South Wales.,Edith Collins Centre (Translational Research in Alcohol, Drugs and Toxicology), Sydney Local Health District, New South Wales.,Specialty of Addiction Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, New South Wales
| | - Carolyn A Day
- Edith Collins Centre (Translational Research in Alcohol, Drugs and Toxicology), Sydney Local Health District, New South Wales
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12
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Kouroumalis E, Voumvouraki A. Hepatitis C virus: A critical approach to who really needs treatment. World J Hepatol 2022; 14:1-44. [PMID: 35126838 PMCID: PMC8790391 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v14.i1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction of effective drugs in the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has prompted the World Health Organization to declare a global eradication target by 2030. Propositions have been made to screen the general population and treat all HCV carriers irrespective of the disease status. A year ago the new severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 virus appeared causing a worldwide pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 disease. Huge financial resources were redirected, and the pandemic became the first priority in every country. In this review, we examined the feasibility of the World Health Organization elimination program and the actual natural course of HCV infection. We also identified and analyzed certain comorbidity factors that may aggravate the progress of HCV and some marginalized subpopulations with characteristics favoring HCV dissemination. Alcohol consumption, HIV coinfection and the presence of components of metabolic syndrome including obesity, hyperuricemia and overt diabetes were comorbidities mostly responsible for increased liver-related morbidity and mortality of HCV. We also examined the significance of special subpopulations like people who inject drugs and males having sex with males. Finally, we proposed a different micro-elimination screening and treatment program that can be implemented in all countries irrespective of income. We suggest that screening and treatment of HCV carriers should be limited only in these particular groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias Kouroumalis
- Department of Gastroenterology, University of Crete Medical School, Heraklion 71500, Crete, Greece
| | - Argyro Voumvouraki
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Thessaloniki 54621, Greece
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Cerdá M, Jalali MS, Hamilton AD, DiGennaro C, Hyder A, Santaella-Tenorio J, Kaur N, Wang C, Keyes KM. A Systematic Review of Simulation Models to Track and Address the Opioid Crisis. Epidemiol Rev 2022; 43:147-165. [PMID: 34791110 PMCID: PMC9005056 DOI: 10.1093/epirev/mxab013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The opioid overdose crisis is driven by an intersecting set of social, structural, and economic forces. Simulation models are a tool to help us understand and address thiscomplex, dynamic, and nonlinear social phenomenon. We conducted a systematic review of the literature on simulation models of opioid use and overdose up to September 2019. We extracted modeling types, target populations, interventions, and findings; created a database of model parameters used for model calibration; and evaluated study transparency and reproducibility. Of the 1,398 articles screened, we identified 88 eligible articles. The most frequent types of models were compartmental (36%), Markov (20%), system dynamics (16%), and agent-based models (16%). Intervention cost-effectiveness was evaluated in 40% of the studies, and 39% focused on services for people with opioid use disorder (OUD). In 61% of the eligible articles, authors discussed calibrating their models to empirical data, and in 31%, validation approaches used in the modeling process were discussed. From the 63 studies that provided model parameters, we extracted the data sources on opioid use, OUD, OUD treatment, cessation or relapse, emergency medical services, and death parameters. From this database, potential model inputs can be identified and models can be compared with prior work. Simulation models should be used to tackle key methodological challenges, including the potential for bias in the choice of parameter inputs, investment in model calibration and validation, and transparency in the assumptions and mechanics of simulation models to facilitate reproducibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Cerdá
- Correspondence to Magdalena Cerdá, Division of Epidemiology, Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, 180 Madison Avenue, Fourth Floor (4-16), New York, NY 10016, USA. (e-mail: )
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14
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Macgregor L, Ward Z, Martin NK, Nicholls J, Desai M, Hickson F, Weatherburn P, Hickman M, Vickerman P. The cost-effectiveness of case-finding strategies for achieving hepatitis C elimination among men who have sex with men in the UK. J Viral Hepat 2021; 28:897-908. [PMID: 33759257 PMCID: PMC9132016 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Modelling suggests hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination is possible among men who have sex with men (MSM), with key screening groups including HIV-diagnosed MSM and MSM using pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Mathematical modelling was used to determine the cost-effectiveness of HCV case-finding strategies among MSM from the provider perspective, and to determine which interventions could achieve a 90% reduction in HCV incidence over 2015-2030. At baseline, we assumed symptomatic screening in HIV-negative MSM (including PrEP users) and 12-monthly screening among HIV-diagnosed MSM. Improved case-finding strategies included screening alongside HIV testing in HIV-negative MSM not using PrEP (PrEP non-users); 12/6/3-monthly screening in PrEP users; and 6-monthly screening in HIV-diagnosed MSM, with the cost-effectiveness being compared incrementally. Costs (GBP) and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) were assessed to estimate the mean incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) with a time horizon to 2050, compared to a willingness-to-pay threshold of £20,000/QALY. From the baseline, the most incrementally cost-effective strategy is to firstly undertake: (1) 12-monthly HCV screening of PrEP users (gaining 6715 QALYs with ICER £1760/QALY), followed by (2) HCV screening among PrEP non-users alongside HIV testing (gaining 7048 QALYs with ICER £4972/QALY). Compared to the baseline, this combined strategy would cost £46.9 (95%CrI £25.3-£66.9) million and achieve the HCV elimination target in 100% of model runs. Additional screening incurs ICERs >£20,000/QALY compared to this combined strategy. In conclusion, HCV elimination can be achieved cost-effectively among UK MSM. Policymakers should consider scaling-up HCV screening in HIV-negative MSM, especially PrEP users, for achieving this target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis Macgregor
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit (NIHR HPRU) in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, Bristol, UK
| | - Zoe Ward
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit (NIHR HPRU) in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, Bristol, UK
| | - Natasha K Martin
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Jane Nicholls
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit (NIHR HPRU) in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, Bristol, UK
- Department of Sexual Health, Cardiff, Vale University Health Board, Cardiff, UK
| | - Monica Desai
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, London, UK
| | - Ford Hickson
- Sigma Research, Faculty of Public Health & Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Peter Weatherburn
- Sigma Research, Faculty of Public Health & Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Matthew Hickman
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Peter Vickerman
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit (NIHR HPRU) in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, Bristol, UK
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15
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Tsybina P, Kassir S, Clark M, Skinner S. Hospital admissions and mortality due to complications of injection drug use in two hospitals in Regina, Canada: retrospective chart review. Harm Reduct J 2021; 18:44. [PMID: 33882950 PMCID: PMC8061207 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-021-00492-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infectious complications of injection drug use (IDU) often require lengthy inpatient treatment. Our objective was to identify the number of admissions related to IDU in Regina, Canada, as well as describe patient demographics and comorbidities, yearly mortality, readmission rate, and cumulative cost of these hospitalizations between January 1 and December 31, 2018. Additionally, we sought to identify factors that increased risk of death or readmission. METHODS This study is a retrospective chart review conducted at the two hospitals in Regina. Eligible study cases were identified by querying the discharge database for predetermined International Classification of Diseases code combinations. Electronic medical records were reviewed to assess whether each admission met inclusion criteria, and hospitalization and patient data were subsequently extracted for all included admissions. Mortality data were gleaned from hospital and Ministry of Health databases. Data were analyzed using Excel and IBM SPSS Statistics to identify common comorbidities, admission diagnoses, and costs, as well as to compare patients with a single admission during the study period to those with multiple admissions. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the relationship between individual variables and in- and out-of-hospital annual mortality. RESULTS One hundred and forty-nine admissions were included, with 102 unique patients identified. Common comorbidities included hepatitis C (47%), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (25%), and comorbid psychiatric disorders (19%). In 23% of all admissions, patients left hospital prior to treatment completion, and 27% of patients experienced multiple admissions. Female patients and those with chronic pain were more likely to be readmitted (p = 0.024 and p = 0.029, respectively). Patients admitted with infective endocarditis were more likely to die during hospitalization (p = 0.0001). The overall mortality was 15% in our cohort. The estimated cumulative cost of inpatient treatment of complications of IDU in Regina was $3.7 million CAD in 2018. CONCLUSION Patients with history of IDU and hospital admission experience high mortality rates in Regina, a city with paucity of inpatient supports for persons who use injection drugs. Needle syringe programs, opioid agonist therapy, and safe consumption sites have been shown to improve outcomes as well as reduce healthcare costs for this patient population. We will use our findings to advocate for increased access to these harm reduction strategies in Regina, particularly for inpatients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Polina Tsybina
- College of Medicine, Regina General Hospital, University of Saskatchewan, 1440 14th Avenue, Regina, SK, S4P 0W5, Canada.
| | - Sandy Kassir
- Research Department, Saskatchewan Health Authority, Regina, Canada
| | - Megan Clark
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Regina, Canada
| | - Stuart Skinner
- Department of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Regina, Canada
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16
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Goldshear JL, Simpson KA, Kral AH, Wenger LD, Bluthenthal RN. Novel Routes of Potential Hepatitis C Virus Transmission among People Who Inject Drugs: Secondary Blood Exposures Related to Injection Drug Use. Subst Use Misuse 2021; 56:751-757. [PMID: 33769203 PMCID: PMC9563097 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2021.1879149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The US is in the midst of a national Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) epidemic that appears to be driven by new cases among people who inject drugs (PWID). While HCV transmission among PWID is believed to occur mostly through direct sharing of syringes, some infections may be spread via secondary processes and materials involved in injecting. OBJECTIVES Here, we present the prevalence of secondary blood exposures on clothing and nearby surfaces after injection episodes and examine the correlations of these exposures to lifetime HCV infection among a targeted sample of 553 PWID in Los Angeles and San Francisco, California in 2016-18. RESULTS In multivariate logistic regression models, higher odds of blood on clothing in the last 30 days was significantly (p < 0.05) associated with lifetime positive HCV status, opioids as primary drug, injecting with others, sharing cookers, and receptive syringe sharing. Higher adjusted odds of blood on nearby surfaces in the last 30 days was significantly associated with lifetime positive HCV status, sharing cookers, and receptive syringe sharing. Native American race was associated with significantly lower adjusted odds of both outcome variables. Conclusions/Importance: Results indicate the relevance of physical and social micro-environments to the potential for blood exposures secondary to injection episodes. Individuals with chronic HCV seropositivity are potentially more likely to expose others to blood due to decreases in the blood's ability to clot. This highlights the need for increased HCV testing at harm reduction sites and increased supply of first aid and wound-care materials to help stop potential blood exposures after injection episodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesse L Goldshear
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Kelsey A Simpson
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Alex H Kral
- Behavioral Health Research Division, RTI International, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Lynn D Wenger
- Behavioral Health Research Division, RTI International, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Ricky N Bluthenthal
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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17
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Holland A. An ethical analysis of UK drug policy as an example of a criminal justice approach to drugs: a commentary on the short film Putting UK Drug Policy into Focus. Harm Reduct J 2020; 17:97. [PMID: 33298088 PMCID: PMC7724436 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-020-00434-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Drug-related deaths in the UK are at the highest level on record—the war on drugs has failed. A short film has been produced intended for public and professional audiences featuring academics, representatives of advocacy organisations, police and policymakers outlining the problems with, and highlighting alternative approaches to, UK drug policy. A range of ethical arguments are alluded to, which are distilled here in greater depth for interested viewers and a wider professional and academic readership.
Main body The war on drugs is seemingly driven by the idea that the consumption of illegal drugs is immoral. However, the meaning ascribed to ‘drug’ in the illicit sense encompasses a vast range of substances with different properties that have as much in common with legal drugs as they do with each other. The only property that distinguishes illegal from legal drugs is their legal status, which rather than being based on an assessment of how dangerous they are has been defined by centuries of socio-political idiosyncrasies. The consequences of criminalising people who use drugs often outweigh the risks they face from drug use, and there is not convincing evidence that this prevents wider drug use or drug-related harm. Additionally, punishing someone as a means, to the end of deterring others from drug use, is ethically problematic. Although criminalising the production of harmful drugs may seem more ethically tenable, it has not reduced the supply of drugs and it precludes effective regulation of the market. Other potential policy approaches are highlighted, which would be ethically preferable to existing punitive policy.
Conclusion It is not possible to eliminate all drug use and associated harms. The current approach is not only ineffective in preventing drug-related harm but itself directly and indirectly causes incalculable harm to those who use drugs and to wider society. For policymakers to gain the mandate to rationalise drug policy, or to be held accountable if they do not, wider engagement with the electorate is required. It is hoped that this film will encourage at least a few to give pause and reflect on how drug policy might be improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Holland
- School of Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
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18
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Abstract
Persons who inject drugs are at high risk for skin and soft tissue infections. Infections range from simple abscesses and uncomplicated cellulitis to life-threatening and limb-threatening infections. These infections are predominantly caused by gram-positive organisms with Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, and other streptococcal species being most common. Although antimicrobial therapy has an important role in treatment of these infections, surgical incision, drainage, and debridement of devitalized tissue are primary. Strategies that decrease the frequency of injection drug use, needle sharing, use of contaminated equipment, and other risk behaviors may be effective in preventing these infections in persons who inject drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry F Chambers
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, University of California, San Francisco, 1001 Potrero Avenue, Building 30, Room 3400, San Francisco, CA 94110, USA.
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19
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Kesten J, Ward Z, Hancock E, Ayres R, Neale J, Hussey D, Hickman M, Vickerman P. Response to Commentary on Hancock et al. (2020): Low dead space syringes are just one component of an integrated package of care needed to tackle HCV and social exclusion among people who inject drugs. Addiction 2020; 115:2407-2408. [PMID: 32533576 DOI: 10.1111/add.15150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Kesten
- NIHR Applied Research Collaboration (ARC) West, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.,NIHR Health Protection Research Unit (HPRU) in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Zoe Ward
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - Matthew Hickman
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit (HPRU) in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Peter Vickerman
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit (HPRU) in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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20
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Trickey A, Semchuk N, Saliuk T, Sazonova Y, Varetska O, Walker JG, Lim AG, Stone J, Vickerman P. Has resourcing of non-governmental harm-reduction organizations in Ukraine improved HIV prevention and treatment outcomes for people who inject drugs? Findings from multiple bio-behavioural surveys. J Int AIDS Soc 2020; 23:e25608. [PMID: 32851812 PMCID: PMC7450208 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION People who inject drugs (PWID) in Ukraine have high prevalences of HIV and hepatitis C (HCV). Since the turn of the century, various organizations have funded non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Ukraine to provide PWID with needles and syringes, condoms, HIV and HCV testing, and improve linkage to opioid agonist therapy (OAT) and HIV treatment. We investigated whether contact with these NGOs was associated with improved HIV prevention and treatment outcomes among PWID. METHODS Five rounds of respondent-driven sampled integrated bio-behavioural survey data (2009 [N = 3962], 2011 [N = 9069], 2013 [N = 9502], 2015 [N = 9405], and 2017 [N = 10076]) among PWID in Ukraine (including HIV/HCV testing and questionnaires) were analysed using mixed-effect logistic regression models (mixed-effects: city, year). These regression models assessed associations between being an NGO client and various behavioural, OAT, HIV testing and HIV treatment outcomes, adjusting for demographic characteristics (age, gender, lifetime imprisonment, registration in a drug abuse clinic, education level). We also assessed associations between being an NGO client and being HIV positive or HCV positive, likewise adjusting for demographic characteristics (as above). RESULTS NGO clients were more likely to have received HIV testing ever (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 5.37, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 4.97 to 5.80) or in the last year (aOR 3.37, 95% CI: 3.20 to 3.54), to have used condoms at last sexual intercourse (aOR 1.37, 95% CI: 1.30 to 1.44) and sterile needles at last injection (aOR 1.37, 95% CI: 1.20 to 1.56), to be currently (aOR 4.19, 95% CI: 3.48 to 5.05) or ever (aOR 2.52, 95% CI: 2.32 to 2.74) on OAT, and to have received syringes (aOR 109.89, 95% CI: 99.26 to 121.66) or condoms (aOR 54.39, 95% CI: 50.17 to 58.96) in the last year. PWID who were HIV positive (aOR 1.40, 95% CI: 1.33 to 1.48) or HCV positive (aOR 1.57, 95% CI: 1.49 to 1.65) were more likely to have contact with NGOs, with HIV positive PWID in contact with NGOs being more likely to be registered at AIDS centres (aOR 2.34, 95% CI: 1.88 to 2.92) and to be on antiretroviral therapy (aOR 1.60, 95% CI: 1.40 to 1.83). CONCLUSIONS Contact with PWID targeted NGOs in Ukraine is associated with consistently better preventive, HIV testing and HIV treatment outcomes, suggesting a beneficial impact of harm reduction NGO programming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Trickey
- Population Health SciencesUniversity of BristolBristolUnited Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Aaron G Lim
- Population Health SciencesUniversity of BristolBristolUnited Kingdom
| | - Jack Stone
- Population Health SciencesUniversity of BristolBristolUnited Kingdom
| | - Peter Vickerman
- Population Health SciencesUniversity of BristolBristolUnited Kingdom
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21
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How simulation modeling can support the public health response to the opioid crisis in North America: Setting priorities and assessing value. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2020; 88:102726. [PMID: 32359858 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2020.102726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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22
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Barbosa C, Fraser H, Hoerger TJ, Leib A, Havens JR, Young A, Kral A, Page K, Evans J, Zibbell J, Hariri S, Vellozzi C, Nerlander L, Ward JW, Vickerman P. Cost-effectiveness of scaling-up HCV prevention and treatment in the United States for people who inject drugs. Addiction 2019; 114:2267-2278. [PMID: 31307116 PMCID: PMC7751348 DOI: 10.1111/add.14731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Revised: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 06/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To examine the cost-effectiveness of hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment of people who inject drugs (PWID), combined with medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and syringe-service programs (SSP), to tackle the increasing HCV epidemic in the United States. DESIGN HCV transmission and disease progression models with cost-effectiveness analysis using a health-care perspective. SETTING Rural Perry County, KY (PC) and urban San Francisco, CA (SF), USA. Compared with PC, SF has a greater proportion of PWID with access to MAT or SSP. HCV treatment of PWID is negligible in both settings. PARTICIPANTS PWID data were collected between 1998 and 2015 from Social Networks Among Appalachian People, U Find Out, Urban Health Study and National HIV Behavioral Surveillance System studies. INTERVENTIONS AND COMPARATOR Three intervention scenarios modeled: baseline-existing SSP and MAT coverage with HCV screening and treatment with direct-acting antiviral for ex-injectors only as per standard of care; intervention 1-scale-up of SSP and MAT without changes to treatment; and intervention 2-scale-up as intervention 1 combined with HCV screening and treatment for current PWID. MEASUREMENTS Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) and uncertainty using cost-effectiveness acceptability curves. Benefits were measured in quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs). FINDINGS For both settings, intervention 2 is preferred to intervention 1 and the appropriate comparator for intervention 2 is the baseline scenario. Relative to baseline, for PC intervention 2 averts 1852 more HCV infections, increases QALYS by 3095, costs $21.6 million more and has an ICER of $6975/QALY. For SF, intervention 2 averts 36 473 more HCV infections, increases QALYs by 7893, costs $872 million more and has an ICER of $11 044/QALY. The cost-effectiveness of intervention 2 was robust to several sensitivity analysis. CONCLUSIONS Hepatitis C screening and treatment for people who inject drugs, combined with medication-assisted treatment and syringe-service programs, is a cost-effective strategy for reducing hepatitis C burden in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Alyssa Leib
- Department of Chemistry, University of Colorado, Denver, USA
| | | | - April Young
- University of Kentucky, College of Medicine, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Alex Kral
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Kimberly Page
- University of New Mexico, Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | | | - Jon Zibbell
- RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Susan Hariri
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Lina Nerlander
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - John W. Ward
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Hussey D, Trinder-Widdess Z, Dee C, Bagnall D, Bojangles T, Kesten JM. Co-design of harm reduction materials for people who inject drugs to implement research findings. Harm Reduct J 2019; 16:36. [PMID: 31174536 PMCID: PMC6555749 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-019-0300-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Equipment used by people who inject drugs (PWID) either has a needle which is fixed to the syringe or can be detached and replaced. Detachable low dead space syringes (LDSS) have been developed, with less space between the needle and plunger (referred to as dead space) than traditional detachable equipment. This equipment can help protect PWID from harm of infection as less blood is transferred if equipment is shared. Our previous research found that detachable LDSS are likely to be acceptable to PWID, and we produced recommendations for their introduction in needle and syringe programmes (NSP) in the United Kingdom (UK). We held a national stakeholder meeting to discuss how to accelerate the pace and scale of the rollout and uptake of detachable LDSS. This commentary reflects on the involvement of PWID as co-designers of harm reduction materials to implement these research findings in a way that supports the uptake of LDSS equipment by NSP and service users. We present the user-centred design process, peer reflections on the project, and lessons learnt by the team working with the peers. Main body Peers and stakeholders translated the research into easy to understand messages following a consultation with NSP across the UK. Working with Linnell Publications over three workshops, peers selected their preferred design style and informed the language, messages, and overall look of the designs. The peers ensured the designs avoided images and language with negative connotations, humour, and unequivocal language. Peers said that they found the process enjoyable and informative—leading to increased awareness of harm reduction practices. The facilitators took steps to ensure the views of the peers were heard throughout. They reflected on the importance of involving PWID meaningfully throughout the project. Without the peers, the designs would be less effective and engaging to their target audience. Conclusion We conclude that placing peers at the heart of this research implementation project was essential to ensure the materials are appropriate and engaging and do not stigmatise or alienate the intended audience unintentionally. We recommend that others planning similar work include peers within the entire project to support their meaningful contribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Hussey
- Bristol Drugs Project, 11 Brunswick Square, Bristol, BS2 8PE, UK.,National Institute for Health Research Collaboration for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care West (NIHR CLAHRC West), University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Zoe Trinder-Widdess
- National Institute for Health Research Collaboration for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care West (NIHR CLAHRC West), University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK.,Bristol Health Partners, Bristol, UK
| | - Cassie Dee
- Bristol Drugs Project, 11 Brunswick Square, Bristol, BS2 8PE, UK
| | - Darren Bagnall
- Bristol Drugs Project, 11 Brunswick Square, Bristol, BS2 8PE, UK
| | - Tatty Bojangles
- Bristol Drugs Project, 11 Brunswick Square, Bristol, BS2 8PE, UK
| | - Joanna May Kesten
- National Institute for Health Research Collaboration for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care West (NIHR CLAHRC West), University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK. .,Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK. .,National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit (HPRU) in Evaluation of Interventions, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
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24
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Pericàs JM, Bromberg DJ, Ocampo D, Schatz E, Wawer I, Wysocki P, Safreed-Harmon K, Lazarus JV. Hepatitis C services at harm reduction centres in the European Union: a 28-country survey. Harm Reduct J 2019; 16:20. [PMID: 30898122 PMCID: PMC6429787 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-019-0290-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2018] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In the context of the WHO’s 2016 Viral Hepatitis Strategy and the introduction of treatment that can cure more than 95% of cases with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, the European Joint Action on HIV and Co-infection Prevention and Harm Reduction (HA-REACT) undertook a study in the member states of the European Union (EU). It aimed to determine service providers’ understanding of the current services in their respective countries and the barriers experienced by PWID in accessing HCV testing, care and treatment services in their country. Methods In 2017, 38 purposively selected harm reduction service providers completed a 26-item English-language online survey addressing the availability, accessibility and funding of HCV services at harm reduction centres. HCV-related data and reported findings were extracted by country or by responding organization. Results Responses were received from all EU member states. Respondents from 23 countries reported that HCV tests are offered by harm reduction services in their countries, and eight countries reported that addiction specialists in their countries are able to prescribe HCV therapy. Almost half of the respondents (45%) said that their respective organizations had established referral systems with centres providing HCV treatment. Conclusions Not all EU member states have harm reduction services that provide HCV tests, and many do not have established referral systems with treatment providers. Moreover, the inability of addiction specialists to prescribe HCV treatment points to missed opportunities to make treatment more accessible. Further, discrepancies were noted between the available HCV services and stakeholders’ knowledge about their availability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan M Pericàs
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Carrer Rosselló, 132, 4th floor, ES-08036, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Daniel J Bromberg
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Carrer Rosselló, 132, 4th floor, ES-08036, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Denise Ocampo
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Carrer Rosselló, 132, 4th floor, ES-08036, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eberhard Schatz
- Correlation Network, De Regenboog Groep, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Iwona Wawer
- National AIDS Centre, Ministry of Health of Poland, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Wysocki
- National AIDS Centre, Ministry of Health of Poland, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Kelly Safreed-Harmon
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Carrer Rosselló, 132, 4th floor, ES-08036, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jeffrey V Lazarus
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Carrer Rosselló, 132, 4th floor, ES-08036, Barcelona, Spain. .,CHIP, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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