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Doyle JS, Heath K, Elsum I, Douglass C, Wade A, Kasza J, Allardice K, Von Bibra S, Chan K, Camesella B, Guzman R, Bryant M, Thompson AJ, Stoové MA, Snelling TL, Scott N, Spelman T, Anderson D, Richmond J, Howell J, Andric N, Dietze PM, Higgs P, Sacks-Davis R, Forbes AB, Hellard ME, Pedrana AE. Same-visit hepatitis C testing and treatment to accelerate cure among people who inject drugs (the QuickStart Study): a cluster randomised cross-over trial protocol. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e083502. [PMID: 38960465 PMCID: PMC11227801 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-083502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite universal access to government-funded direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) in 2016, the rate of hepatitis C treatment uptake in Australia has declined substantially. Most hepatitis C is related to injecting drug use; reducing the hepatitis C burden among people who inject drugs (PWID) is, therefore, paramount to reach hepatitis C elimination targets. Increasing DAA uptake by PWID is important for interrupting transmission and reducing incidence, as well as reducing morbidity and mortality and improving quality of life of PWID and meeting Australia's hepatitis C elimination targets. METHODS AND ANALYSIS A cluster randomised cross-over trial will be conducted with three intervention arms and a control arm. Arm A will receive rapid hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibody testing; arm B will receive rapid HCV antibody and rapid RNA testing; arm C will receive rapid HCV antibody testing and same-day treatment initiation for HCV antibody-positive participants; the control arm will receive standard of care. The primary outcomes will be (a) the proportion of participants with HCV commencing treatment and (b) the proportion of participants with HCV achieving cure. Analyses will be conducted on an intention-to-treat basis with mixed-effects logistic regression models. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study has been approved by the Alfred Ethics Committee (number HREC/64731/Alfred-2020-217547). Each participant will provide written informed consent. Reportable adverse events will be reported to the reviewing ethics committee. The findings will be presented at scientific conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT05016609. TRIAL PROGRESSION The study commenced recruitment on 9 March 2022 and is expected to complete recruitment in December 2024.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph S Doyle
- Infectious Diseases, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Imogen Elsum
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Amanda Wade
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jessica Kasza
- Population Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | - Kico Chan
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Alexander J Thompson
- Gastroenterology, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medicine at St Vincent's Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Thomas L Snelling
- Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Nick Scott
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Jessica Howell
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Gastroenterology, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nada Andric
- HepatitisWA, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Paul M Dietze
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Population Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter Higgs
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Andrew B Forbes
- Population Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Margaret E Hellard
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Population Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alisa E Pedrana
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Population Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Samartsidis P, Harris RJ, Dillon J, Desai M, Foster GR, Gunson R, Ijaz S, Mandal S, McAuley A, Palmateer N, Presanis AM, Simmons R, Smith S, Thorne B, Yeung A, Zaouche M, Hutchinson S, Hickman M, Angelis DD. Evaluating the effect of direct-acting antiviral agent treatment scale-up on Hepatitis C virus prevalence among people who inject drugs in UK. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2024:104429. [PMID: 38942687 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2024.104429] [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: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is limited empirical work assessing the effectiveness of treatment as prevention (TasP) in reducing HCV prevalence among people who inject drugs (PWID). Here, we used survey data from the UK during 2010-2020, to evaluate the impact of direct-acting antiviral agent (DAA) treatment scale-up, which started in 2015, on HCV prevalence among PWID. METHODS We fitted a logistic regression to time/location specific data on prevalence from the Needle Exchange Surveillance Initiative in Scotland and Unlinked Anonymous Monitoring programme in England. For each post-intervention year and location, we quantified the effect of TasP as the difference between estimated prevalence and its counterfactual (prevalence in the absence of scale-up). Progress to elimination was assessed by comparing most recent prevalence against one in 2015. RESULTS In 2015, prevalence ranged from 0.44 to 0.71 across the 23 locations (3 Scottish, 20 English). Compared to counterfactuals, there was an absolute reduction of 46% (95% credible interval [32%,59%]) in Tayside in 2020, 35% ([24%,44%]) in Glasgow in 2019, and 25% ([10%,39%]) in the Rest of Scotland in 2020. The English sites with highest estimated absolute reductions in 2021 were South Yorkshire (45%, [29%,58%]), Thames Valley (49%, [34%,59%]) and West London (41%, [14%,59%]). Compared to 2015, there was 80% probability that prevalence had fallen by 65% in Tayside, 53% in Glasgow and 36% in the Rest of Scotland. The English sites with highest % prevalence decrease compared to 2015, achieved with probability 80%, were Chesire & Merseyside (70%), South Yorkshire (65%) and Thames Valley (71%). Higher treatment intensity was associated with higher reductions in prevalence. CONCLUSION Conclusion. Real-world evidence showing substantial reductions in chronic HCV associated with increase of HCV treatment scale-up in the community thus supporting the effectiveness of HCV treatmen as prevention in people who inject drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Rory Gunson
- West of Scotland Specialist Virology Centre, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Andrew McAuley
- Public Health Scotland, United Kingdom; Glasgow Caledonian University, United Kingdom
| | - Norah Palmateer
- Public Health Scotland, United Kingdom; Glasgow Caledonian University, United Kingdom
| | - Anne M Presanis
- MRC Biostatistics Unit, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | | | - Shanley Smith
- Public Health Scotland, United Kingdom; Glasgow Caledonian University, United Kingdom
| | | | - Alan Yeung
- Public Health Scotland, United Kingdom; Glasgow Caledonian University, United Kingdom
| | - Mounia Zaouche
- MRC Biostatistics Unit, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Sharon Hutchinson
- Public Health Scotland, United Kingdom; Glasgow Caledonian University, United Kingdom
| | | | - Daniela De Angelis
- MRC Biostatistics Unit, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom; UK Health Security Agency, United Kingdom
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Foppiano Palacios C, Dubose B, Schmalzle S. Risk Factors Associated With Unsuccessful Linkage to Outpatient Hepatitis C Care. Cureus 2024; 16:e58313. [PMID: 38752075 PMCID: PMC11095415 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.58313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Modern direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) can treat and cure hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Treatment of HCV at a population level has the potential to decrease the prevalence of chronic HCV infection and sequela. Unfortunately, many patients fall off the HCV treatment cascade and do not complete HCV treatment. As social determinants of health (SDHs) affect HCV acquisition, we sought to evaluate factors that may limit successful linkage to outpatient HCV care. Methods We conducted a case-control study by matching patients who missed and those who attended their outpatient HCV visits in 2018. We matched cases in a 1:1 ratio using propensity scores. Results Of 1,539 patients, 161 (10.5%) did not attend their HCV clinic appointment. Factors associated with a missed HCV visit on bivariate testing included identifying as Black (p=0.03), housing instability (p<0.001), transportation difficulty (p<0.001), history of medication non-adherence (p<0.001), and undergoing screening during an inpatient admission (p<0.001). Multivariate testing found transportation difficulty (p<0.001) and inpatient admission (p=0.002) to be associated with missing their HCV appointment. Patients who attended their HCV visit were more likely to be alive by the end of 2018 (p=0.07). Conclusion Patients who missed an initial scheduled infectious disease (ID) clinic appointment for HCV treatment had higher rates of housing instability, transportation difficulties, and medication non-adherence. Patients diagnosed with HCV infection should be provided additional support as appropriate to address the social determinants of health that may limit linkage to outpatient HCV care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Foppiano Palacios
- Department of Medicine, Cooper University Hospital, Camden, USA
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, USA
| | - Brianna Dubose
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | - Sarah Schmalzle
- Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
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Cheng Q, Cunningham EB, Shih S, Amin J, Bruneau J, Artenie AA, Powis J, Litwin AH, Cooper C, Dalgard O, Hellard M, Bruggmann P, Marks P, Lacombe K, Stedman C, Read P, Hajarizadeh B, Dunlop AJ, Conway B, Feld JJ, Dore GJ, Grebely J. Patient-Reported Outcomes During and After Hepatitis C Virus Direct-Acting Antiviral Treatment Among People Who Inject Drugs. VALUE IN HEALTH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR PHARMACOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2023; 26:883-892. [PMID: 36646278 DOI: 10.1016/j.jval.2022.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES People who inject drugs (PWID) are at a high risk of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. HCV cure is associated with improved patient-reported outcomes (PROs), but there are little data among PWID. This study aimed to assess the change in PROs during and after HCV direct-acting antiviral (DAA) treatment. METHODS This analysis used data from 2 clinical trials of DAA treatment in PWID. PROs assessed included health-related quality of life, social functioning, psychological distress, housing, and employment. Generalized estimating equations and group-based trajectory modeling were used to assess changes in PROs over time. RESULTS No significant changes in the 3-level version of EQ-5D scores, EQ visual analogue scale scores, social functioning, psychological distress, and housing were observed over the 108-week study period. There was a significant increase in the proportion of participants employed (18% [95% confidence interval (CI) 12%-23%] at baseline to 28% [95% CI 19%-36%] at the end of the study). Participants were more likely to be employed at 24 weeks and 108 weeks after commencing treatment. Having stable housing increased the odds of being employed (odds ratio 1.70; 95% CI 1.00-2.90). The group-based trajectory modeling demonstrated that most outcomes remained stable during and after DAA treatment. CONCLUSIONS Although no significant improvement was identified in health-related quality of life after HCV DAA treatment, there was a modest but significant increase in employment during study follow-up. The study findings support the need for multifaceted models of HCV care for PWID addressing a range of issues beyond HCV treatment to improve quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinglu Cheng
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Evan B Cunningham
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Sophy Shih
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Janaki Amin
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Julie Bruneau
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada; Département de médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Adelina A Artenie
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, England, UK
| | - Jeff Powis
- Infection Prevention and Control, Michael Garron Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Alain H Litwin
- Prisma Health Addiction Medicine Centre, Greenville, SC, USA; School of Medicine - Greenville, University of South Carolina, Greenville, SC, USA; School of Health Research, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
| | - Curtis Cooper
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Olav Dalgard
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Akershus University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Margaret Hellard
- The Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Infectious Disease, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Philippa Marks
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Karine Lacombe
- Faculté de médecine, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France; Infectious Diseases Department, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Catherine Stedman
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand; Gastroenterology Department, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | | | - Behzad Hajarizadeh
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Adrian J Dunlop
- Drug & Alcohol Clinical Services, Hunter New England Local Health District, Newcastle, NSW, Australia; Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Brian Conway
- Vancouver Infectious Diseases Centre, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jordan J Feld
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Gregory J Dore
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jason Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Lier AJ, Vander Wyk B, Di Paola A, Springer SA. Evaluation of the Impact of HIV Serostatus on the Hepatitis C Virus Care Cascade and Injection Drug Use Among Persons Initiating Medication Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder. Open Forum Infect Dis 2022; 9:ofac624. [PMID: 36467300 PMCID: PMC9709708 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofac624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Persons who inject drugs are at increased risk for acquiring hepatitis C virus (HCV). Medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) are associated with reduced injection drug use (IDU) frequency among persons with opioid use disorder (OUD). However, whether HCV treatment uptake or changes in IDU frequency differ by HIV serostatus among persons receiving MOUD is incompletely understood. Methods A secondary analysis was performed of data collected from 2 prospective cohort studies of participants with (PWH) or without HIV with Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition-diagnosed OUD who were initiated on methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone. Results Of 129 participants, 78 (60.5%) were HCV antibody positive. PWH underwent increased HCV viral load testing (76.7% vs 43.3%; P = .028), but HCV treatment rates did not differ (17.6% vs 10.0%; P = .45) by HIV status. Participants without HIV reported a greater reduction in mean opioid IDU at 90 days (10.7 vs 2.0 fewer days out of 30; P < .001), but there were no group differences at 90 days. Stimulant use did not differ between groups. Urine opioid positivity declined from baseline to 90 days among the entire cohort (61.4% to 38.0%; P < .001) but did not differ by HIV serostatus. Conclusions PWH who received MOUD underwent higher rates of follow-up HCV testing, but HCV treatment rates did not significantly differ by HIV serostatus. Participants without HIV on MOUD reported a greater reduction in opioid IDU. Improved integration of concomitant OUD with HCV and HIV screening, linkage to care, and treatment are needed for persons without HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audun J Lier
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Northport VA Medical Center, Northport, New York, USA
| | - Brent Vander Wyk
- Section of Geriatrics, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Angela Di Paola
- AIDS Program, Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Sandra A Springer
- AIDS Program, Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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Yeung A, Palmateer NE, Dillon JF, McDonald SA, Smith S, Barclay S, Hayes PC, Gunson RN, Templeton K, Goldberg DJ, Hickman M, Hutchinson SJ. Population-level estimates of hepatitis C reinfection post scale-up of direct-acting antivirals among people who inject drugs. J Hepatol 2022; 76:549-557. [PMID: 34634387 PMCID: PMC8852744 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2021.09.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Scale-up of highly effective direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) for HCV among people who inject drugs (PWID) in Scotland has led to a reduction in the prevalence of viraemia in this population. However, the extent of reinfection among those treated with DAAs remains uncertain. We estimated HCV reinfection rates among PWID in Scotland by treatment setting, pre- and post-introduction of DAAs, and the potential number of undiagnosed reinfections resulting from incomplete follow-up testing. METHODS Through linkage of national clinical and laboratory HCV data, a retrospective cohort of PWID who commenced treatment between 2000-2018 and achieved a sustained virological response (SVR) were followed up for reinfection to December 2019. Reinfection was defined as a positive HCV antigen or RNA test. RESULTS Of 5,686 SVRs among 5,592 PWID, 4,126 (73%) had an HCV RNA or antigen test post-SVR. Of those retested, we identified 361 reinfections (3.9/100 person-years [PY]). The reinfection rate increased from 1.5/100 PY among PWID treated in 2000-2009 to 8.8/100 PY in 2017-2018. The highest reinfection rates were observed among those treated in prison (14.3/100 PY) and community settings (9.5/100 PY). Among those treated in the DAA era (2015-2018), 68% were tested within the first year post-SVR but only 30% in the second year; while 169 reinfections were diagnosed in follow-up, an estimated 200 reinfections (54% of the estimated total) had gone undetected. CONCLUSIONS HCV reinfection rates among PWID in Scotland have risen alongside the scale-up of DAAs and broadened access to treatment for those at highest risk, through delivery in community drug services. Promotion of HCV testing post-SVR among PWID is essential to ensure those reinfected are identified and retreated promptly. LAY SUMMARY Increased rates of hepatitis C reinfection in Scotland were observed following the rapid scale-up of highly effective direct-acting antiviral (DAA) treatments among people who inject drugs. This demonstrates that community-based treatment pathways are reaching high-risk groups, regarded vital in efforts to eliminate the virus. However, we estimate that less than half of reinfections have been detected in the DAA era because of inadequate levels of retesting beyond the first year following successful treatment. Sustained efforts that involve high coverage of harm reduction measures and high uptake of annual testing are required to ensure prompt diagnosis and treatment of those reinfected if the goals of elimination are to be met.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Yeung
- Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, United Kingdom; Public Health Scotland, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
| | - Norah E Palmateer
- Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, United Kingdom; Public Health Scotland, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | | | - Scott A McDonald
- Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, United Kingdom; Public Health Scotland, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Shanley Smith
- Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, United Kingdom; Public Health Scotland, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | | | - Peter C Hayes
- Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Rory N Gunson
- West of Scotland Specialist Virology Centre, Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Kate Templeton
- Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Specialist Virology Centre, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - David J Goldberg
- Public Health Scotland, Edinburgh, United Kingdom; Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew Hickman
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom; NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Sharon J Hutchinson
- Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, United Kingdom; Public Health Scotland, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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Primary Care Associated With Follow Up Viral Load Testing in Patients Cured of Hepatitis C Infection With Direct Acting Antivirals at a Multidisciplinary Addiction Treatment Program: Insights From a Real-World Setting. J Addict Med 2022; 16:333-339. [PMID: 34483278 PMCID: PMC9033626 DOI: 10.1097/adm.0000000000000910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Treatment of hepatitis C virus infection (HCV) with direct acting antiviral therapy is encouraged regardless of substance use status. Patients with substance use disorder are at risk of HCV reinfection after cure. Follow up viral load testing (FUVL) with HCV RNA is recommended. We investigated factors associated with adoption of FUVL in real-world clinical settings. METHODS Medical records of all patients with SUD who achieved HCV cure with direct acting antivirals at a multidisciplinary addiction treatment program between 2014 and 2019 were reviewed as part of a quality improvement initiative. Demographic and clinical characteristics including SUD treatment, urine toxicology results, and medical service use were collected. Factors associated with FUVL were analyzed and the rate of HCV reinfection was determined. RESULTS Among 149 patients, 58.4% received FUVL. Receipt of FUVL was associated with engagement in ongoing primary medical care after cure (AOR 4.39, 95% CI [1.67, 11.49]). The HCV reinfection rate among those who received FUVL was 1.95 per 100 person-years of follow up (95% CI [0.64, 5.98]). There was no significant difference in the percentage of negative urine toxicology results before and after cure. CONCLUSIONS Over half of a cohort of patients with substance use disorder cured of HCV received FUVL. The relationship between FUVL and engagement in primary medical and substance use treatment highlights the importance of integrated systems in providing longitudinal care for patients cured of HCV. Standardized interventions that facilitate FUVL testing and management of infectious complications of SUD in addiction treatment settings are needed.
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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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Han R, Liang S, François C, Aballea S, Clay E, Toumi M. Allocating treatment resources for hepatitis C in the UK: a constrained optimization modelling approach. JOURNAL OF MARKET ACCESS & HEALTH POLICY 2021; 9:1887664. [PMID: 33828822 PMCID: PMC8008927 DOI: 10.1080/20016689.2021.1887664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Background and objective: Although the treatment of chronic hepatitis C (CHC) has significantly evolved with the introduction of direct-acting antivirals, the treatment uptake rates have been low especially among marginalized groups in the UK, such as people who inject drug (PWID) and men who have sex with men (MSM). Cutting health inequality is a major focus of healthcare agencies. This study aims to identify the optimal allocation of treatment budget for chronic hepatitis CHC among populations and treatments in the UK so that liver-related mortality in patients with CHC is minimized, given the constraint of treatment budget and equity issue. Methods: A constrained optimization modelling of resource allocation for the treatment of CHC was developed in Excel from the perspective of the UK National Health System over a lifetime horizon. The model was designated with the objective function of minimizing liver-related deaths by varying the decision variables, representing the number of patients receiving each treatment (elbasvir-grazoprevir, ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir-dasabuvir, sofosbuvir-ledipasvir, and pegylated interferon-ribavirin) in each population (the general population, PWID, and MSM). Two main constraints were formulated including treatment budget and the issue of equity. The model was populated with UK local data applying linear programming and underwent internal and external validation. Scenario analyses were performed to assess the robustness of model results. Results: Within the constraints of no additional funding over original spending in status quo and the consideration of the issue of equity among populations, the optimal allocation from the constrained optimization modelling (treating 13,122 PWID, 160 MSM, and 904 general patients with ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir-dasabuvir) was found to treat 2,430 more patients (relative change: 20.7%) and avert 78 liver-related deaths (relative change: 0.3%) compared with the current allocation. The number of patients receiving treatment increased 4,928 (relative change: 60.1%) among PWID and 42 (relative change: 35.8%) among MSM. Conclusion: The current allocation of treatment budget for CHC is not optimal in the UK. More patients would be treated, and more liver-related deaths would be avoided using a new allocation from a constrained optimization modelling without incurring additional spending and considering the issue of equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ru Han
- Public Health Department - Research Unit, University of Aix-Marseille, Marseille, France
- HEOR, Creativ-Ceutical, Paris, France
- CONTACT Ru Han HEOR, University of Aix-Marseille, 215, Rue De Faubourg St-Honoré, 75008, Paris
| | - Shuyao Liang
- Public Health Department - Research Unit, University of Aix-Marseille, Marseille, France
- HEOR, Creativ-Ceutical, Paris, France
| | - Clément François
- Public Health Department - Research Unit, University of Aix-Marseille, Marseille, France
- HEOR, Creativ-Ceutical, Paris, France
| | - Samuel Aballea
- Public Health Department - Research Unit, University of Aix-Marseille, Marseille, France
- Creativ-Ceutical, HEOR, Rotterdam, Netherland
| | - Emilie Clay
- Public Health Department - Research Unit, University of Aix-Marseille, Marseille, France
- HEOR, Creativ-Ceutical, Paris, France
| | - Mondher Toumi
- Public Health Department - Research Unit, University of Aix-Marseille, Marseille, France
- HEOR, Creativ-Ceutical, Paris, France
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10
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Sanvisens A, Rivas I, Faure E, Espinach N, Hernandez-Rubio A, Majó X, Colom J, Muga R. Monitoring hepatitis C virus treatment rates in an Opioid Treatment Program: A longitudinal study. World J Gastroenterol 2020; 26:5874-5883. [PMID: 33132641 PMCID: PMC7579757 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v26.i38.5874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) are recommended for the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in patients treated with methadone or buprenorphine.
AIM To assess HCV treatment rates in an Opioid Treatment Program (OTP).
METHODS This longitudinal study included 501 patients (81.4% men, median age: 45 years; interquartile range: 39-50 years) enrolled in an OTP between October 2015 and September 2017. Patients were followed until September 2019. Data on socio-demographics, substance use, HCV infection, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and laboratory parameters were collected at entry. We analyzed medical records to evaluate HCV treatment. Kaplan-Meier methods and Cox regression models were used to analyze the DAA treatment uptake and to identify treatment predictors.
RESULTS Prevalence of HCV and HIV infection was 70% and 34%, respectively. Among anti-HCV-positive (n = 336) patients, 47.2%, 41.3%, and 31.9% used alcohol, cannabis, and cocaine, respectively. HCV-RNA tests were positive in 233 (69.3%) patients. Twentyeight patients (8.3%) cleared the infection, and 59/308 (19.1%) had received interferon-based treatment regimens before 2015. Among 249 patients eligible, 111 (44.6%) received DAAs. Treatment rates significantly increased over time from 7.8/100 person-years (p-y) (95%CI: 5.0-12.3) in 2015 to 18.9/100 p-y (95%CI: 11.7-30.3) in 2019. In a multivariate analysis, patients with HIV co-infection were twice as likely to receive DAAs (HR = 1.94, 95%CI: 1.21-3.12) than patients with HCV mono-infection. Current drug use was an independent risk factor for not receiving treatment against infection (HR = 0.48, 95%CI: 0.29-0.80).
CONCLUSION HCV treatment is evolving in patients with HCV-HIV co-infection. Ongoing drug use while in an OTP might negatively impact the readiness to treat infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arantza Sanvisens
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona 08916, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Rivas
- Mental Health and Addiction Service, Badalona Serveis Assistencials-BSA, Badalona 08911, Spain
| | - Eva Faure
- Mental Health and Addiction Service, Badalona Serveis Assistencials-BSA, Badalona 08911, Spain
| | - Néstor Espinach
- Mental Health and Addiction Service, Badalona Serveis Assistencials-BSA, Badalona 08911, Spain
| | - Anna Hernandez-Rubio
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Badalona 08916, Spain
| | - Xavier Majó
- Program on HIV, STIs and Viral Hepatitis - PCAVIHV Public Health Agency of Catalonia, Generalitat de Catalunya, Barcelona 08005, Spain
| | - Joan Colom
- Program on HIV, STIs and Viral Hepatitis - PCAVIHV Public Health Agency of Catalonia, Generalitat de Catalunya, Barcelona 08005, Spain
| | - Robert Muga
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Badalona 08916, Spain
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11
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Skaathun B, Borquez A, Rivero-Juarez A, Mehta SR, Tellez F, Castaño-Carracedo M, Merino D, Palacios R, Macías J, Rivero A, Martin NK. What is needed to achieve HCV microelimination among HIV-infected populations in Andalusia, Spain: a modeling analysis. BMC Infect Dis 2020; 20:588. [PMID: 32770955 PMCID: PMC7414743 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-020-05285-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Scale-up of hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment for HIV/HCV coinfected individuals is occurring in Spain, the vast majority (> 85%) with a reported history of injecting drug use and a smaller population of co-infected men who have sex with men (MSM). We assess impact of recent treatment scale-up to people living with HIV (PLWH) and implications for achieving the WHO HCV incidence elimination target (80% reduction 2015-2030) among PLWH and overall in Andalusia, Spain, using dynamic modeling. METHODS A dynamic transmission model of HCV/HIV coinfection was developed. The model was stratified by people who inject drugs (PWID) and MSM. The PWID component included dynamic HCV transmission from the HCV-monoinfected population. The model was calibrated to Andalusia based on published data and the HERACLES cohort (prospective cohort of HIV/HCV coinfected individuals representing > 99% coinfected individuals in care in Andalusia). From HERACLES, we incorporated HCV treatment among diagnosed PLWH of 10.5%/year from 2004 to 2014, and DAAs at 33%/year from 2015 with 94.8% SVR. We project the impact of current and scaled-up HCV treatment for PLWH on HCV prevalence and incidence among PLWH and overall. RESULTS Current treatment rates among PLWH (scaled-up since 2015) could substantially reduce the number of diagnosed coinfected individuals (mean 76% relative reduction from 2015 to 2030), but have little impact on new diagnosed coinfections (12% relative reduction). However, DAA scale-up to PWLH in 2015 would have minimal future impact on new diagnosed coinfections (mean 9% relative decrease from 2015 to 2030). Similarly, new cases of HCV would only reduce by a mean relative 29% among all PWID and MSM due to ongoing infection/reinfection. Diagnosing/treating all PLWH annually from 2020 would increase the number of new HCV infections among PWLH by 28% and reduce the number of new HCV infections by 39% among the broader population by 2030. CONCLUSION Targeted scale-up of HCV treatment to PLWH can dramatically reduce prevalence among this group but will likely have little impact on the annual number of newly diagnosed HIV/HCV coinfections. HCV microelimination efforts among PWLH in Andalusia and settings where a large proportion of PLWH have a history of injecting drug use will require scaled-up HCV diagnosis and treatment among PLWH and the broader population at risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Britt Skaathun
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive MC 0507, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
| | - Annick Borquez
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive MC 0507, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Antonio Rivero-Juarez
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Instituto Maimonides de Investigaciones Biomedicas de Cordoba (IMIBIC), Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia de Cordoba, Universidad de Cordoba, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Sanjay R Mehta
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive MC 0507, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Francisco Tellez
- Infectious Diseases Unit Hospital Universitario de Puerto Real, Instituto de Investigación e Innovación en Ciencias Biomédicas de la Provincia de Cádiz. Universidad de Cádiz, Cádiz, Spain
| | | | - Dolores Merino
- Infectious Diseases Unit. Hospitales Juan Ramón Jiménez e Infanta Elena de Huelva, Huelva, Spain
| | - Rosario Palacios
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria. Complejo Hospitalario Provincial de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Juan Macías
- Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Hospital Universitario de Valme. Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla (iBiS), Sevilla, Spain
| | - Antonio Rivero
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Instituto Maimonides de Investigaciones Biomedicas de Cordoba (IMIBIC), Hospital Universitario Reina Sofia de Cordoba, Universidad de Cordoba, Cordoba, Spain
| | - Natasha K Martin
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive MC 0507, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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12
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Nápoles TM, Batchelder AW, Lin A, Moran L, Johnson MO, Shumway M, Luetkemeyer AF, Peters MG, Eagen KV, Riley ED. HCV treatment barriers among HIV/HCV co-infected patients in the US: a qualitative study to understand low uptake among marginalized populations in the DAA era. J Public Health (Oxf) 2020; 41:e283-e289. [PMID: 31044248 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdz045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2018] [Revised: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Well-tolerated, highly effective HCV treatment, known as direct-acting antivirals (DAAs), is now recommended for all people living with HCV, providing the tools for HCV elimination. We sought to understand treatment barriers among low-income HIV/HCV coinfected patients and providers with the goal of increasing uptake. METHODS In 2014, we conducted 26 interviews with HIV/HCV co-infected patients and providers from a San Francisco clinic serving underinsured and publically-insured persons to explore barriers impacting treatment engagement and completion. Interview transcripts were coded, and a thematic analysis was conducted to identify emerging patterns. RESULTS Conditions of poverty-specifically, meeting basic needs for food, shelter, and safety-undermined patient perceptions of self-efficacy to successfully complete HCV treatment programs. While patient participants expressed interest in HCV treatment, the perceived burden of taking daily medications without strong social support was an added challenge. This need for support contradicted provider assumptions that, due to the shorter-course regimens, support is unnecessary in the DAA era. CONCLUSIONS Interferon-free treatments alone are not sufficient to overcome social-structural barriers to HCV treatment and care among low-income HIV/HCV co-infected patients. Support for patients with unmet social needs may facilitate treatment initiation and completion, particularly among those in challenging socioeconomic situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa M Nápoles
- Department of Medicine, Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases and Global Medicine, Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA.,Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Abigail W Batchelder
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ada Lin
- Department of Medicine, Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases and Global Medicine, Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Lissa Moran
- Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Mallory O Johnson
- Department of Medicine, Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Martha Shumway
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Anne F Luetkemeyer
- Department of Medicine, Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases and Global Medicine, Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Marion G Peters
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kellene V Eagen
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Elise D Riley
- Department of Medicine, Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases and Global Medicine, Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco, CA, USA
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13
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Stevens ER, Nucifora KA, Hagan H, Jordan AE, Uyei J, Khan B, Dombrowski K, des Jarlais D, Braithwaite RS. Cost-effectiveness of Direct Antiviral Agents for Hepatitis C Virus Infection and a Combined Intervention of Syringe Access and Medication-assisted Therapy for Opioid Use Disorders in an Injection Drug Use Population. Clin Infect Dis 2020; 70:2652-2662. [PMID: 31400755 PMCID: PMC7286369 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciz726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are too many plausible permutations and scale-up scenarios of combination hepatitis C virus (HCV) interventions for exhaustive testing in experimental trials. Therefore, we used a computer simulation to project the health and economic impacts of alternative combination intervention scenarios for people who inject drugs (PWID), focusing on direct antiviral agents (DAA) and medication-assisted treatment combined with syringe access programs (MAT+). METHODS We performed an allocative efficiency study, using a mathematical model to simulate the progression of HCV in PWID and its related consequences. We combined 2 previously validated simulations to estimate the cost-effectiveness of intervention strategies that included a range of coverage levels. Analyses were performed from a health-sector and societal perspective, with a 15-year time horizon and a discount rate of 3%. RESULTS From a health-sector perspective (excluding criminal justice system-related costs), 4 potential strategies fell on the cost-efficiency frontier. At 20% coverage, DAAs had an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of $27 251/quality-adjusted life-year (QALY). Combinations of DAA at 20% with MAT+ at 20%, 40%, and 80% coverage had ICERs of $165 985/QALY, $325 860/QALY, and $399 189/QALY, respectively. When analyzed from a societal perspective (including criminal justice system-related costs), DAA at 20% with MAT+ at 80% was the most effective intervention and was cost saving. While DAA at 20% with MAT+ at 80% was more expensive (eg, less cost saving) than MAT+ at 80% alone without DAA, it offered a favorable value compared to MAT+ at 80% alone ($23 932/QALY). CONCLUSIONS When considering health-sector costs alone, DAA alone was the most cost-effective intervention. However, with criminal justice system-related costs, DAA and MAT+ implemented together became the most cost-effective intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth R Stevens
- Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- New York University College of Global Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Kimberly A Nucifora
- Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Holly Hagan
- New York University College of Global Public Health, New York, New York, USA
- Center for Drug Use and Human Immunodeficiency Virus Research, New York University College of Global Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Ashly E Jordan
- Center for Drug Use and Human Immunodeficiency Virus Research, New York University College of Global Public Health, New York, New York, USA
- School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jennifer Uyei
- Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Bilal Khan
- Department of Sociology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
| | - Kirk Dombrowski
- Department of Sociology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska, USA
| | - Don des Jarlais
- New York University College of Global Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - R Scott Braithwaite
- Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Center for Drug Use and Human Immunodeficiency Virus Research, New York University College of Global Public Health, New York, New York, USA
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14
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O'Sullivan M, Jones AM, Gage H, Jordan J, MacPepple E, Williams H, Verma S. ITTREAT (Integrated Community Test - Stage - TREAT) Hepatitis C service for people who use drugs: Real-world outcomes. Liver Int 2020; 40:1021-1031. [PMID: 32048798 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2019] [Revised: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) provide an unprecedented opportunity for a "find-and-treat strategy." We aimed to report real-world clinical, patient reported and health economic outcomes of community-based hepatitis C virus (HCV) screening/treatment in people who use drugs (PWUDs). METHODS Project ITTREAT (2013-2021), established at a drug and alcohol treatment centre, offered a comprehensive service. Generic (SF-12v2 and EQ-5D-5L) and liver-specific (SFLDQoL) health-related quality of life (HRQoL) were assessed before and after HCV treatment. Costs/case detected and cured were calculated. Primary outcome measure was sustained virological response (SVR) (intention to treat). RESULTS Till March 2018, 573 individuals recruited, 462 (81%) males, mean age 40.5 ± 10.0 years. Of the 125 treated, 115 (92%) had past/current history of injecting drug use, 88 (70%) were receiving opioid agonist treatment and 50 (40%) were homeless. Twenty-six per cent received interferon-based and 74% DAA-only regimens. SVR (ITT) was 87% (90% with DAAs). Service uptake/HCV treatment completion rates were >95%, HCV reinfection being 2.63/100 person years (95% CI 0.67-10.33). HRQoL improved significantly at end of treatment (EOT) in those with SVR: SFLDQoL (symptoms, memory, distress, loneliness, hopelessness, sleep and stigma) (P</ = .011); SF-12 v2 physical and mental health domains (P < .001); and EQ-5D-5L composite profile score (P = .009) and visual analogue scale, P < .001. Cost (British pounds 2018) per case detected was £171; mean cost per cure (excluding medication) was £702 ± 188. CONCLUSIONS Excellent real-world SVRs in PWUDs with significant improvement in HRQoL can be achieved at modest costs. Project ITTREAT endorses community-based integrated services to help achieve HCV elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret O'Sullivan
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Brighton and Sussex University Hospital NHS Trust, Brighton, UK
| | | | - Heather Gage
- Surrey Health Economics Centre, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Surrey, Surrey, UK
| | - Jake Jordan
- Surrey Health Economics Centre, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Surrey, Surrey, UK
| | - Ekelechi MacPepple
- Surrey Health Economics Centre, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Surrey, Surrey, UK
| | | | - Sumita Verma
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Brighton and Sussex University Hospital NHS Trust, Brighton, UK.,Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Brighton & Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
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15
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Hancock E, Ward Z, Ayres R, Neale J, Hussey D, Kesten JM, Hickman M, Vickerman P. Detachable low dead space syringes for the prevention of hepatitis C among people who inject drugs in Bristol, UK: an economic evaluation. Addiction 2020; 115:702-713. [PMID: 31633849 PMCID: PMC7725423 DOI: 10.1111/add.14849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Revised: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Traditional detachable syringes used by people who inject drugs (PWID) retain larger volumes of blood when the plunger is depressed than syringes with fixed needles-referred to as high (HDSS) and low dead space syringes (LDSS), respectively. Evidence suggests that using HDSS may result in greater hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission risk than LDSS. We evaluated the cost-effectiveness of an intervention to introduce detachable LDSS in a needle and syringe programme (NSP). DESIGN HCV transmission and disease progression model with cost-effectiveness analysis using a health-care perspective. Detachable LDSS are associated with increased costs (£0.008) per syringe, yearly staff training costs (£536) and an estimated decreased risk (by 47.5%) of HCV transmission compared with HDSS. The intervention was modelled for 10 years, with costs and health benefits (quality-adjusted life-years: QALYs) tracked over 50 years. SETTING Bristol, UK. PARTICIPANTS AND CASES PWID attending NSP. INTERVENTION AND COMPARATOR Gradual replacement of HDSS at NSP, with 8, 58 and 95% of HDSS being replaced by detachable LDSS in 2016, 2017 and 2018, respectively. Comparator was continuing use of HDSS. MEASUREMENTS Net monetary benefit. Benefits were measured in QALYs. FINDINGS Introducing detachable LDSS was associated with a small increase in intervention costs (£21 717) compared with not introducing detachable LDSS, but considerable savings in HCV-related treatment and care costs (£4 138 118). Overall cost savings were £4 116 401 over 50 years and QALY gains were 1000, with an estimated 30% reduction in new infections over the 10-year intervention period. In all sensitivity analyses, detachable LDSS resulted in cost savings and additional QALYs. Threshold analyses suggested that detachable LDSS would need to reduce HCV transmission risk of HDSS by 0.26% to be cost-saving and 0.04% to be cost-effective. CONCLUSIONS Replacing high dead space syringes with detachable low dead space syringes in needle and syringe programmes in the United Kingdom is likely to be a cost-saving approach for reducing hepatitis C virus transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zoe Ward
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, UK
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16
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Pitcher AB, Borquez A, Skaathun B, Martin NK. Mathematical modeling of hepatitis c virus (HCV) prevention among people who inject drugs: A review of the literature and insights for elimination strategies. J Theor Biol 2019; 481:194-201. [PMID: 30452959 PMCID: PMC6522340 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtbi.2018.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In 2016, the World Health Organization issued global elimination targets for hepatitis C virus (HCV), including an 80% reduction in HCV incidence by 2030. The vast majority of new HCV infections occur among people who inject drugs (PWID), and as such elimination strategies require particular focus on this population. As governments urgently require guidance on how to achieve elimination among PWID, mathematical modeling can provide critical information on the level and targeting of intervention are required. In this paper we review the epidemic modeling literature on HCV transmission and prevention among PWID, highlight main differences in mathematical formulation, and discuss key insights provided by these models in terms of achieving WHO elimination targets among PWID. Overall, the vast majority of modeling studies utilized a deterministic compartmental susceptible-infected-susceptible structure, with select studies utilizing individual-based network transmission models. In general, these studies found that harm reduction alone is unlikely to achieve elimination targets among PWID. However, modeling indicates elimination is achievable in a wide variety of epidemic settings with harm reduction scale-up combined with modest levels of HCV treatment for PWID. Unfortunately, current levels of testing and treatment are generally insufficient to achieve elimination in most settings, and require further scale-up. Additionally, network-based treatment strategies as well as prison-based treatment and harm reduction provision could provide important additional population benefits. Overall, epidemic modeling has and continues to play a critical role in informing HCV elimination strategies worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Annick Borquez
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Britt Skaathun
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Natasha K Martin
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, CA, USA.
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17
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Hickman M, Dillon JF, Elliott L, De Angelis D, Vickerman P, Foster G, Donnan P, Eriksen A, Flowers P, Goldberg D, Hollingworth W, Ijaz S, Liddell D, Mandal S, Martin N, Beer LJZ, Drysdale K, Fraser H, Glass R, Graham L, Gunson RN, Hamilton E, Harris H, Harris M, Harris R, Heinsbroek E, Hope V, Horwood J, Inglis SK, Innes H, Lane A, Meadows J, McAuley A, Metcalfe C, Migchelsen S, Murray A, Myring G, Palmateer NE, Presanis A, Radley A, Ramsay M, Samartsidis P, Simmons R, Sinka K, Vojt G, Ward Z, Whiteley D, Yeung A, Hutchinson SJ. Evaluating the population impact of hepatitis C direct acting antiviral treatment as prevention for people who inject drugs (EPIToPe) - a natural experiment (protocol). BMJ Open 2019; 9:e029538. [PMID: 31551376 PMCID: PMC6773339 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-029538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2019] [Revised: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the second largest contributor to liver disease in the UK, with injecting drug use as the main risk factor among the estimated 200 000 people currently infected. Despite effective prevention interventions, chronic HCV prevalence remains around 40% among people who inject drugs (PWID). New direct-acting antiviral (DAA) HCV therapies combine high cure rates (>90%) and short treatment duration (8 to 12 weeks). Theoretical mathematical modelling evidence suggests HCV treatment scale-up can prevent transmission and substantially reduce HCV prevalence/incidence among PWID. Our primary aim is to generate empirical evidence on the effectiveness of HCV 'Treatment as Prevention' (TasP) in PWID. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We plan to establish a natural experiment with Tayside, Scotland, as a single intervention site where HCV care pathways are being expanded (including specialist drug treatment clinics, needle and syringe programmes (NSPs), pharmacies and prison) and HCV treatment for PWID is being rapidly scaled-up. Other sites in Scotland and England will act as potential controls. Over 2 years from 2017/2018, at least 500 PWID will be treated in Tayside, which simulation studies project will reduce chronic HCV prevalence among PWID by 62% (from 26% to 10%) and HCV incidence will fall by approximately 2/3 (from 4.2 per 100 person-years (p100py) to 1.4 p100py). Treatment response and re-infection rates will be monitored. We will conduct focus groups and interviews with service providers and patients that accept and decline treatment to identify barriers and facilitators in implementing TasP. We will conduct longitudinal interviews with up to 40 PWID to assess whether successful HCV treatment alters their perspectives on and engagement with drug treatment and recovery. Trained peer researchers will be involved in data collection and dissemination. The primary outcome - chronic HCV prevalence in PWID - is measured using information from the Needle Exchange Surveillance Initiative survey in Scotland and the Unlinked Anonymous Monitoring Programme in England, conducted at least four times before and three times during and after the intervention. We will adapt Bayesian synthetic control methods (specifically the Causal Impact Method) to generate the cumulative impact of the intervention on chronic HCV prevalence and incidence. We will use a dynamic HCV transmission and economic model to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of the HCV TasP intervention, and to estimate the contribution of the scale-up in HCV treatment to observe changes in HCV prevalence. Through the qualitative data we will systematically explore key mechanisms of TasP real world implementation from provider and patient perspectives to develop a manual for scaling up HCV treatment in other settings. We will compare qualitative accounts of drug treatment and recovery with a 'virtual cohort' of PWID linking information on HCV treatment with Scottish Drug treatment databases to test whether DAA treatment improves drug treatment outcomes. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Extending HCV community care pathways is covered by ethics (ERADICATE C, ISRCTN27564683, Super DOT C Trial clinicaltrials.gov: NCT02706223). Ethical approval for extra data collection from patients including health utilities and qualitative interviews has been granted (REC ref: 18/ES/0128) and ISCRCTN registration has been completed (ISRCTN72038467). Our findings will have direct National Health Service and patient relevance; informing prioritisation given to early HCV treatment for PWID. We will present findings to practitioners and policymakers, and support design of an evaluation of HCV TasP in England.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Hickman
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - John F Dillon
- Hepatology & Gastroenterology, Clinical & Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | | | - Daniela De Angelis
- MRC Biostatistics Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Peter Vickerman
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Graham Foster
- Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
- Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Peter Donnan
- Dundee Epidemiology and Biostatistics Unit, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | | | | | - David Goldberg
- Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
- Health Protection Scotland, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Samreen Ijaz
- National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, UK
| | | | - Sema Mandal
- National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, UK
| | - Natasha Martin
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, San Diego, UK
| | - Lewis J Z Beer
- Tayside Clinical Trials Unit, Tayside Medical Science Centre, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Kate Drysdale
- Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
- Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Hannah Fraser
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Rachel Glass
- National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, UK
| | | | - Rory N Gunson
- West Of Scotland Specialist Virology Centre, NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde Board, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Helen Harris
- National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, UK
| | | | - Ross Harris
- National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, UK
| | | | - Vivian Hope
- Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Jeremy Horwood
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Sarah Karen Inglis
- Tayside Clinical Trials Unit, Tayside Medical Science Centre, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Hamish Innes
- Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
- Health Protection Scotland, Glasgow, UK
| | - Athene Lane
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Jade Meadows
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Andrew McAuley
- Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
- Health Protection Scotland, Glasgow, UK
| | - Chris Metcalfe
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | | | - Gareth Myring
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Norah E Palmateer
- Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
- Health Protection Scotland, Glasgow, UK
| | - Anne Presanis
- MRC Biostatistics Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Andrew Radley
- Hepatology & Gastroenterology, Clinical & Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
- Directorate of Public Health, NHS Tayside, Dundee, UK
| | - Mary Ramsay
- National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, UK
| | - Pantelis Samartsidis
- MRC Biostatistics Unit, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ruth Simmons
- National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, UK
| | - Katy Sinka
- National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, UK
| | | | - Zoe Ward
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Alan Yeung
- Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
- Health Protection Scotland, Glasgow, UK
| | - Sharon J Hutchinson
- Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
- Health Protection Scotland, Glasgow, UK
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Jena AB, Snider JT, Diaz Espinosa O, Ingram A, Sanchez Gonzalez Y, Lakdawalla D. How Does Treating Chronic Hepatitis C Affect Individuals in Need of Organ Transplants in the United Kingdom? VALUE IN HEALTH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR PHARMACOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2019; 22:669-676. [PMID: 31198184 DOI: 10.1016/j.jval.2018.09.2923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2018] [Revised: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To estimate the impact of cures for chronic hepatitis C (CHC) infection on organ donation in the United Kingdom. Curing CHC infection reduces the need for liver transplants and enables cured individuals to donate organs of all types. METHODS We adapted a double-queuing model of organ allocation to estimate the effects of CHC infection cures on liver, lung, heart, and kidney transplants in the United Kingdom. We assumed that cured individuals would donate organs at similar rates as the general population and no longer require liver transplants because of CHC infection. We estimated how curing CHC infection influences waitlist lengths for each organ and the annual net present value to society on the basis of quality-adjusted life-years gained through additional transplants under opt-in and opt-out organ donation policies. RESULTS Curing CHC generates the most value for patients on the liver waitlist, because it increases the number of transplantable livers and reduces the need for transplants. Under the current opt-in policy, liver waitlist length falls by 24%, generating £34.3 million of annual net present value. Growth in the number of uninfected lungs, hearts, and kidneys generates an additional £19.2 million annually, with £18.7 million from kidneys. Implementing the opt-out policy, liver waitlist length would decrease by 75%, implying that treating CHC eliminates one-third of the excess liver waitlist due to an opt-in policy. CONCLUSIONS Treating CHC has large positive spillovers to uninfected individuals by reducing the need for liver transplants and allowing cured individuals to donate organs. These spillovers have not been included in traditional value assessments of CHC treatment.
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Marco A, Guerrero RA, Vergara M, Gallego C, Solé C, Planella R, Vaz ME, Teixidó N, Sastre A, Touzón C, da Silva A, Almada G, Ruíz A, Caylà JA, Turu E. Reinfection in a large cohort of prison inmates with sustained virological response after treatment of chronic hepatitis C in Catalonia (Spain), 2002-2016. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2019; 72:189-194. [PMID: 31160156 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2019.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2018] [Revised: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prisoners and other high-risk patients who show a sustained virological response (SVR) after treatment for hepatitis C virus (HCV) can become reinfected. We aimed to calculate the rate of HCV reinfection in a large cohort of inmates with SVR and to determine factors that predict reinfection. METHODS We included all inmates treated for hepatitis C in Catalonia (Spain) from January 2002 to December 2016 who achieved SVR and in whom viral load was subsequently determined. The incidence rate was calculated per 100 person-years (100 py) of follow up. Risk factors associated with reinfection were evaluated by bivariate log-rank test and multivariate Cox regression. Hazard ratio (HR) and their 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. RESULTS 602 patients were included, with a mean age of 37.9 years: 95% were men, 74.1% had a history of intravenous drug use (IDU) and 28.7% were HIV-infected. Patients were followed for a total of 2154.9 years (average 3.58 ± 3.1 years). 63 (10.5%) had HCV reinfection. 41 (65.1%) presented different genotype/subgenotype, 8 the initial genotype/subgenotype, and in 14 (22.2%) the genotype could not be determined. Of the 21 reinfected patients who were interviewed, 20 (95.2%) reported IDU after antiviral treatment, and 7 (33.3%) during treatment. The overall incidence of reinfection was 2.9 cases per 100 py. All reinfections occurred in patients with IDU history. At multivariate level, HIV infection was associated with reinfection (HR = 3.03; CI:1.82-5.04). CONCLUSION In HIV-infected inmates with IDU history, the rate of reinfection of HCV post-SVR is very high. Prisons play a key role in the detection and treatment of infection and reinfection by HCV and in the post-treatment monitoring in these patients, which should be combined with counseling and the optimization of the harm reduction programs. Effective control of these vulnerable groups favours the elimination of the HCV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Marco
- Prison Health Program, Catalan Institute of Health, Spain; CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Spain.
| | | | - Mercedes Vergara
- Hepatology Unit, Digestive Disease Department, Parc Taulí Hospital Universitari, Institut d'Investigació i Innovació Parc Taulí I3PT, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Sabadell, Spain; CIBERehd, Instituto Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Carlos Gallego
- Health Services of Quatre Camins Penitentiary Centre, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Concepció Solé
- Health Services of Puig de les Basses Penitentiary Centre, Girona, Spain.
| | - Ramón Planella
- Health Services of Ponent Penitentiary Centre, Lleida, Spain.
| | - M Elisa Vaz
- Health Services of Mas d'Enric Penitentiary Centre, Tarragona, Spain.
| | - Núria Teixidó
- Health Services of Brians-1 Penitentiary Centre, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Ana Sastre
- Health Services of Brians-2 Penitentiary Centre, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Carlos Touzón
- Health Services of Lledoners Penitentiary Centre, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Antonio da Silva
- Health Services of Quatre Camins Penitentiary Centre, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Guido Almada
- Health Services of Brians-1 Penitentiary Centre, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Ruíz
- Health Services of Brians-2 Penitentiary Centre, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Joan A Caylà
- Foundation of Tuberculosis Research Unit of Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Elisabet Turu
- Prison Health Program, Catalan Institute of Health, Spain.
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20
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Bach TA, Zaiken K. Outcomes of treatment with direct-acting antivirals for infection with hepatitis C virus genotypes 1-4 in an ambulatory care setting. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2019; 74:S1-S9. [PMID: 28213381 DOI: 10.2146/ajhp160567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Outcomes with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) for the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotypes 1-4 were determined. METHODS A total of 360 patients at 36 clinical sites in Massachusetts with HCV genotypes 1-4 and a prescription for at least one DAA medication between May 2011 and October 2015 were included. The primary investigator completed a retrospective and concurrent chart review, and data were collected through April 2016. RESULTS A total of 446 patients were assessed for eligibility into the study, with 86 patients excluded. The majority of patients were white males with genotype 1 infection. About half of the patients were treatment naive (TN), and 40% of patients had documented cirrhosis. TN patients without cirrhosis had the highest overall sustained virologic response (SVR) rate at 107 of 109 (98.2%), followed by treatment-experienced (TE) patients without cirrhosis at 59 of 63 (93.7%), TN patients with cirrhosis at 40 of 46 (87.0%), and TE patients with cirrhosis at 64 of 79 (81.0%) when boceprevir- and telaprevir-containing regimens were excluded. A total of 7 of 360 (1.9%) patients reported missing at least one dose of medication. Adverse drug reactions reported in the electronic medical record (EMR) were collected for analysis and included patients who received at least one dose of medication and had adequate EMR documentation. CONCLUSION In patients treated with DAAs for infection with HCV genotypes 1-4, variables favoring achievement of SVR included an age of <45 years, a body mass index of <25 kg/m2, absence of cirrhosis, a fibrosis score of 0-2, and being TN.
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21
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Maticic M, Zorman JV, Gregorcic S, Schatz E, Lazarus JV. Changes to the national strategies, plans and guidelines for the treatment of hepatitis C in people who inject drugs between 2013 and 2016: a cross-sectional survey of 34 European countries. Harm Reduct J 2019; 16:32. [PMID: 31072401 PMCID: PMC6509821 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-019-0303-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2019] [Accepted: 04/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is the leading cause of cirrhosis, end-stage liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) worldwide. In Europe, people who inject drugs (PWID) represent the majority of HCV infections, but are often excluded from treatment. The aim of this study was to report on national HCV strategies, action plans and guidelines in European countries that include HCV treatment for the general population as well as for PWID. Data on access to direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) were also collected. METHODS In 2016, 38 non-governmental organisations, universities and public health institutions that work with PWID in 34 European countries were invited to complete a 16-item online survey about current national HCV treatment policies and guidelines. Data from 2016 were compared to those from 2013 for 33 European countries, and time trends are presented. Differences in the data were analysed. Data from 2016 on general access to DAAs in PWID are presented separately. RESULTS The response rate was 100%. Fourteen countries (42%) reported having a national HCV strategy covering HCV treatment; 12 of these addressed HCV treatment for PWID. Respondents from ten countries (29%) reported having a national HCV action plan. PWID were specifically included in seven of them. Twenty-nine countries (85%) reported having national HCV treatment guidelines. PWID were specifically included in 23 (79%) of them. Compared to 2013, respondents reported that an additional seven countries (25%) had national strategies, an additional eight countries (29%) had action plans and an additional six countries (19%) had HCV treatment guidelines. However, PWID were not included in two, four and six of those countries, respectively. DAAs were reported to be available in 91% of the study countries, with restrictions reported in 71% of them. CONCLUSION Respondents reported that fewer than half of the European countries in this study had a national HCV strategy and/or action plan, with even fewer including PWID. However, when compared to 2013, the number of such countries had slightly increased. Although PWID are often addressed in clinical guidelines, strategic action is needed to increase access to HCV treatment for this group and the situation should be regularly monitored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mojca Maticic
- Clinic for Infectious Diseases and Febrile Illnesses, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Japljeva Str 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Jerneja Videcnik Zorman
- Clinic for Infectious Diseases and Febrile Illnesses, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Japljeva Str 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Sergeja Gregorcic
- Clinic for Infectious Diseases and Febrile Illnesses, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Japljeva Str 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Eberhard Schatz
- Correlation Network, Foundation De RegenboogGroep, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jeffrey V. Lazarus
- Barcelona Institute forGlobal Health (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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22
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Doyle JS, Scott N, Sacks-Davis R, Pedrana AE, Thompson AJ, Hellard ME. Treatment access is only the first step to hepatitis C elimination: experience of universal anti-viral treatment access in Australia. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2019; 49:1223-1229. [PMID: 30908706 DOI: 10.1111/apt.15210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2018] [Revised: 06/13/2018] [Accepted: 02/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Global targets to eliminate hepatitis C (HCV) might be met by sustained treatment uptake. AIM To describe factors facilitating HCV treatment uptake and potential challenges to sustaining treatment levels after universal access to direct-acting anti-virals (DAA) across Australia. METHODS We analysed national Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme data to determine the number of DAA prescriptions commenced before and after universal access from March 2016 to June 2017. We inferred facilitators and barriers to treatment uptake, and challenges that will prevent local and global jurisdictions reaching elimination targets. RESULTS In 2016, 32 877 individuals (14% of people living with HCV in Australia) commenced HCV DAA treatment, and 34 952 (15%) individuals commenced treatment in the first year of universal access. Treatment uptake peaked at 13 109 DAA commencements per quarter immediately after universal access, but more than halved (to 5320 in 2017 Q2) within 12 months. General practitioners have written 24% of all prescriptions but with a significantly increased proportion over time (9% in 2016 Q1 to 37% in 2017 Q2). In contrast, hepatology or infectious diseases specialists have written a declining share from 74% to 38% during the same period. General practitioners provided a greater proportion (47%) of care in regional/remote areas than major cities. CONCLUSIONS Broad treatment access led to rapid initial increases in treatment uptake, but this uptake has not been sustained. Our results suggest achieving global elimination targets requires more than treatment availability: people with HCV need easy access to testing and linkage to care in community settings employing a diverse prescriber base.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph S Doyle
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred and Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Nick Scott
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,School of Population Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Rachel Sacks-Davis
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Alisa E Pedrana
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,School of Population Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Alexander J Thompson
- Department of Gastroenterology, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Margaret E Hellard
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred and Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,School of Population Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
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23
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Sweeney S, Ward Z, Platt L, Guinness L, Hickman M, Hope V, Maher L, Iversen J, Hutchinson SJ, Smith J, Ayres R, Hainey I, Vickerman P. Evaluating the cost-effectiveness of existing needle and syringe programmes in preventing hepatitis C transmission in people who inject drugs. Addiction 2019; 114:560-570. [PMID: 30674091 DOI: 10.1111/add.14519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2018] [Revised: 07/06/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
AIM To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of needle and syringe programmes (NSPs) compared with no NSPs on hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission in the United Kingdom. DESIGN Cost-effectiveness analysis from a National Health Service (NHS)/health-provider perspective, utilizing a dynamic transmission model of HCV infection and disease progression, calibrated using city-specific surveillance and survey data, and primary data collection on NSP costs. The effectiveness of NSPs preventing HCV acquisition was based on empirical evidence. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS UK settings with different chronic HCV prevalence among people who inject drugs (PWID): Dundee (26%), Walsall (18%) and Bristol (45%) INTERVENTIONS: Current NSP provision is compared with a counterfactual scenario where NSPs are removed for 10 years and then returned to existing levels with effects collected for 40 years. MEASUREMENTS HCV infections and cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained through NSPs over 50 years. FINDINGS Compared with a willingness-to-pay threshold of £20 000 per QALY gained, NSPs were highly cost-effective over a time-horizon of 50 years and decreased the number of HCV incident infections. The mean incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was cost-saving in Dundee and Bristol, and £596 per QALY gained in Walsall, with 78, 46 and 40% of simulations being cost-saving in each city, respectively, with differences driven by coverage of NSP and HCV prevalence (lowest in Walsall). More than 90% of simulations were cost-effective at the willingness-to-pay threshold. Results were robust to sensitivity analyses, including varying the time-horizon, HCV treatment cost and numbers of HCV treatments per year. CONCLUSIONS Needle and syringe programmes are a highly effective low-cost intervention to reduce hepatitis C virus transmission, and in some settings they are cost-saving. Needle and syringe programmes are likely to remain cost-effective irrespective of changes in hepatitis C virus treatment cost and scale-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sedona Sweeney
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Zoe Ward
- Bristol Medical School, Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Lucy Platt
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Lorna Guinness
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Matthew Hickman
- Bristol Medical School, Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Vivian Hope
- Public Health Institute, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Lisa Maher
- Kirby Institute for Infection and Immunity, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jenny Iversen
- Kirby Institute for Infection and Immunity, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Josie Smith
- Public Health Wales, Cardiff, Wales, UK, CF10 4BZ
| | | | | | - Peter Vickerman
- Bristol Medical School, Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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Lombardi A, Mondelli MU. Hepatitis C: Is eradication possible? Liver Int 2019; 39:416-426. [PMID: 30472772 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2018] [Revised: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C has a relevant global impact in terms of morbidity, mortality and economic costs, with more than 70 million people infected worldwide. In the resolution, "Transforming our world: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development" was included as a focus area in the health-related goal with world leaders pledging to "combat" it by 2030. In response, WHO drafted the Global Viral Hepatitis Strategy carrying the ambitious targets to reduce the number of deaths by two-thirds and to increase treatment rates up to 80%. Despite the availability of highly effective therapeutic regimens based on direct-acting antivirals many barriers to HCV eradication still remain. They are related to awareness of the infection, linkage to care, availability of the therapeutic drug regimens and reinfection. Overall, if an effective prophylactic vaccine will not be available, HCV eradication appears difficult to achieve in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Lombardi
- Division of Infectious Diseases II and Immunology, Department of Medical Sciences and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Mario U Mondelli
- Division of Infectious Diseases II and Immunology, Department of Medical Sciences and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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25
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Gicquelais RE, Foxman B, Coyle J, Eisenberg MC. Hepatitis C transmission in young people who inject drugs: Insights using a dynamic model informed by state public health surveillance. Epidemics 2019; 27:86-95. [PMID: 30930214 DOI: 10.1016/j.epidem.2019.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2018] [Revised: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 02/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing injection of heroin and prescription opioids have led to increases in the incidence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections in US young adults since the early 2000s. How best to interrupt transmission and decrease HCV prevalence in young people who inject drugs (PWID) is uncertain. We developed an age-stratified ordinary differential equation HCV transmission model of PWID aged 15-64, which we fit to Michigan HCV surveillance data among young PWID aged 15-29. We used Latin hypercube sampling to fit to data under 10,000 plausible model parameterizations. We used the best-fitting 10% of simulations to predict the potential impact of primary (reducing injection initiation), secondary (increasing cessation, reducing injection partners, or reducing injection drug use relapse), and tertiary (HCV treatment) interventions (over the period 2017-2030) on acute and chronic HCV cases by the year 2030. Treating 3 per 100 current and former PWID per year could reduce chronic HCV by 27.3% (range: 18.7-30.3%) and acute HCV by 23.6% (range: 6.7-29.5%) by 2030 among PWID aged 15-29 if 90% are cured (i.e. achieved sustained virologic response [SVR] to treatment). Reducing the number of syringe sharing partners per year by 10% was predicted to reduce chronic HCV by 15.7% (range: 9.4-23.8%) and acute cases by 21.4% (range: 14.2-32.3%) among PWID aged 15-29 by 2030. In simulations of combinations of interventions, reducing injection initiation, syringe sharing, and relapse rates each by 10% while increasing cessation rates by 10% predicted a 27.7% (range: 18.0-39.7%) reduction in chronic HCV and a 38.4% (range: 28.3-53.3%) reduction in acute HCV. Our results highlight the need for HCV treatment among both current and former PWID and the scale up of both primary and secondary interventions to concurrently reduce HCV prevalence and incidence in Michigan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel E Gicquelais
- University of Michigan School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States; Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, 615 N. Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States.
| | - Betsy Foxman
- University of Michigan School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States.
| | - Joseph Coyle
- Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, 320 S Walnut St, Lansing, MI 48933, United States.
| | - Marisa C Eisenberg
- University of Michigan School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States.
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Martinello M, Dore GJ, Matthews GV, Grebely J. Strategies to Reduce Hepatitis C Virus Reinfection in People Who Inject Drugs. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2019; 32:371-393. [PMID: 29778261 DOI: 10.1016/j.idc.2018.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Reinfection after direct-acting antiviral therapy may pose a challenge to hepatitis C virus elimination efforts. Reinfection risk is cited as a reason for not offering treatment to people who inject drugs. As treatment scale-up expands among populations with risks for reacquisition, acknowledgment that reinfection can and will occur is essential. Efforts to prevent and manage reinfection should be incorporated into individual- and population-level strategies. The risk of reinfection after successful treatment emphasises the need for education, harm reduction, and posttreatment surveillance. Reinfection must not be considered an impediment to treatment, if hepatitis C virus elimination is to be achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Martinello
- Viral Hepatitis Clinical Research Program, Kirby Institute, Level 5, Wallace Wurth Building, High Street, UNSW Sydney, Kensington NSW 2052, Australia.
| | - Gregory J Dore
- Viral Hepatitis Clinical Research Program, Kirby Institute, Level 5, Wallace Wurth Building, High Street, UNSW Sydney, Kensington NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Gail V Matthews
- Viral Hepatitis Clinical Research Program, Kirby Institute, Level 5, Wallace Wurth Building, High Street, UNSW Sydney, Kensington NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Jason Grebely
- Viral Hepatitis Clinical Research Program, Kirby Institute, Level 5, Wallace Wurth Building, High Street, UNSW Sydney, Kensington NSW 2052, Australia
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Boucher LM, Bayoumi AM, Mark AE, Cooper C, Martin A, Marshall Z, Boyd R, Oickle P, Diliso N, Pineau D, Renaud B, LeBlanc S, Tyndall M, Lee OM, Kendall CE. Hepatitis C Testing, Status and Treatment among Marginalized People Who Use Drugs in an Inner City Setting: An Observational Cohort Study. Subst Use Misuse 2019; 54:18-30. [PMID: 29932800 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2018.1485699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is common among people who inject drugs (PWID) and is associated with morbidity and premature death. Although HCV can be cured, treatment may be inaccessible. We studied HCV testing, status and treatment among marginalized people who use drugs in Ottawa, Canada, a setting with universal insurance coverage for physician services. METHODS We analyzed data from the Participatory Research in Ottawa: Understanding Drugs study, a cross-sectional, peer-administered survey of people who use drugs from 2012 to 2013. We linked responses to population-based health administrative databases and used multivariable Poisson regression to identify factors independently associated with self-reported HCV testing, self-reported positive HCV status, and database-determined engagement in HCV treatment. RESULTS Among 663 participants, 562 (84.8%) reported testing for HCV and 258 (45.9%) reported HCV-positive status. In multivariable analysis, HCV-positive status was associated with female gender (RR 1.27; 95%CI 1.04 to 1.55), advancing age (RR 1.03/year; 95%CI 1.02 to 1.04), receiving disability payments (RR 1.42; 95%CI 1.06 to 1.91), injecting drugs (RR 5.11; 95%CI 2.64 to 9.91), ever injecting with a used needle (RR 1.30; 95%CI 1.12 to 1.52), and ever having taken methadone (RR 1.26; 95%CI 1.05 to 1.52). Of HCV positive participants, 196 (76%) were engaged in primary care but only 23 (8.9%) had received HCV therapy. Conclusions/Importance: Although HCV testing and positive status rates are high among PWID in our study, few have received HCV treatment. Innovative initiatives to increase access to HCV treatment for PWID are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Boucher
- a Bruyere Research Institute , Ottawa , Ontario , Canada.,b Department of Epidemiology and Public Health , University of Ottawa , Ottawa , Ontario , Canada
| | - Ahmed M Bayoumi
- c Division of General Internal Medicine , St. Michael's Hospital , Ontario , Canada.,d Department of Medicine and Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation , University of Toronto , Toronto , Ontario , Canada
| | - Amy E Mark
- e Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences , Toronto , Canada
| | - Curtis Cooper
- f Clinical Epidemiology Program , Ottawa Hospital Research Institute , Ottawa , Ontario , Canada
| | - Alana Martin
- f Clinical Epidemiology Program , Ottawa Hospital Research Institute , Ottawa , Ontario , Canada
| | - Zack Marshall
- g School of Social Work , McGill University , Montreal , Quebec , Canada
| | - Rob Boyd
- h Sandy Hill Community Health Centre , Ottawa , Ontario , Canada
| | - Pam Oickle
- i Ottawa Public Health , Ottawa , Ontario , Canada
| | - Nicola Diliso
- j PROUD Community Advisory Committee , Ottawa , Ontario , Canada
| | - Dave Pineau
- j PROUD Community Advisory Committee , Ottawa , Ontario , Canada
| | - Brad Renaud
- j PROUD Community Advisory Committee , Ottawa , Ontario , Canada
| | - Sean LeBlanc
- k Drug Users Advocacy League , Ottawa , Ontario , Canada
| | - Mark Tyndall
- l BC Centre for Disease Control , Vancouver , British Columbia , Canada
| | - Olivia M Lee
- b Department of Epidemiology and Public Health , University of Ottawa , Ottawa , Ontario , Canada
| | - Claire E Kendall
- a Bruyere Research Institute , Ottawa , Ontario , Canada.,b Department of Epidemiology and Public Health , University of Ottawa , Ottawa , Ontario , Canada.,m Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute of St. Michael's Hospital , Ontario , Canada
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Radley A, de Bruin M, Inglis SK, Donnan PT, Dillon JF. Clinical effectiveness of pharmacy-led versus conventionally delivered antiviral treatment for hepatitis C in patients receiving opioid substitution therapy: a study protocol for a pragmatic cluster randomised trial. BMJ Open 2018; 8:e021443. [PMID: 30552244 PMCID: PMC6303565 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-021443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2017] [Revised: 05/08/2018] [Accepted: 10/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection affects 0.7% of the general population, and up to 40% of people prescribed opioid substitution therapy (OST) in Scotland. In conventional care, less than 10% of OST users are tested for HCV and less than 25% of these initiate treatment. Community pharmacists see this group frequently to provide OST supervision. This study examines whether a pharmacist-led 'test & treat' pathway increases cure rates for HCV. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This protocol describes a cluster-randomised trial where 60 community pharmacies provide either conventional or pharmacy-led care. All pharmacies offer dried blood spot testing (DBST) for HCV. Participants have attended the pharmacy for OST for 3 months; are positive for HCV genotype 1 or 3; are not co-infected with HIV and/or hepatitis B; have no decompensated liver disease; are not pregnant. For conventional care, pharmacists refer HCV-positive participants to a local centre for assessment. In the pharmacy-led arm, pharmacists assess participants themselves in the pharmacy. Drug prescribing is by nurse prescribers (conventional arm) or pharmacist prescribers (pharmacy-led arm). Treatment in both arms is delivered as daily modified directly observed therapy in a pharmacy. Primary trial outcome is number of sustained virological responses at 12 weeks after treatment completion. Secondary trial outcomes are number of tests taken; treatment uptake; completion; adherence; re-infection. An economic evaluation will assess potential cost-effectiveness. Qualitative research interviews with clients and health professionals assess acceptability of a pharmacist-led pathway. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This protocol has been ethically approved by the East of Scotland Research Ethics Committee 2 (15/ES/0086) and complies with the Declaration of Helsinki and principles of Good Clinical Practice. Caldicott guardian approval was given on 16 December 2016 to allow NHS Tayside to pass information to the cluster community pharmacies about the HCV test status of patients that they are seeing to provide OST supervision. NHS R&D approvals have been obtained from each health board taking part in the study. Informed consent is obtained before study enrolment and only anonymised data are stored in a secured database, enabling an audit trail. Results will be submitted to international peer-reviewed journals and presented at international conferences. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT02706223; Pre-results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Radley
- Directorate of Public Health, NHS Tayside, Kings Cross Hospital, Dundee, UK
| | - Marijn de Bruin
- Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Sarah K Inglis
- Tayside Clinical Trials Unit, University of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee, UK
| | - Peter T Donnan
- Tayside Clinical Trials Unit, University of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee, UK
| | - John F Dillon
- Division of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, Dundee, UK
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Khan B, Duncan I, Saad M, Schaefer D, Jordan A, Smith D, Neaigus A, Des Jarlais D, Hagan H, Dombrowski K. Combination interventions for Hepatitis C and Cirrhosis reduction among people who inject drugs: An agent-based, networked population simulation experiment. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0206356. [PMID: 30496209 PMCID: PMC6264850 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0206356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is endemic in people who inject drugs (PWID), with prevalence estimates above 60% for PWID in the United States. Previous modeling studies suggest that direct acting antiviral (DAA) treatment can lower overall prevalence in this population, but treatment is often delayed until the onset of advanced liver disease (fibrosis stage 3 or later) due to cost. Lower cost interventions featuring syringe access (SA) and medically assisted treatment (MAT) have shown mixed results in lowering HCV rates below current levels. However. little is known about the potential cumulative effects of combining DAA and MAT treatment. While simulation experiments can reveal likely long-term effects, most prior simulations have been performed on closed populations of model agents—a scenario quite different from the open, mobile populations known to most health agencies. This paper uses data from the Centers for Disease Control’s National HIV Behavioral Surveillance project, IDU round 3, collected in New York City in 2012 to parameterize simulations of open populations. To test the effect of combining DAA treatment with SA/MAT participation, multiple, scaled implementations of the two intervention strategies were simulated. Our results show that, in an open population, SA/MAT by itself has only small effects on HCV prevalence, while DAA treatment by itself can lower both HCV and HCV-related advanced liver disease prevalence. More importantly, the simulation experiments suggest that combinations of the two strategies can, when implemented together and at sufficient levels, dramatically reduce HCV incidence. We conclude that adopting SA/MAT implementations alongside DAA interventions can play a critical role in reducing the long-term consequences of ongoing HCV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bilal Khan
- Department of Sociology, University of Nebraska, Lincoln NE, United States of America
| | - Ian Duncan
- Department of Sociology, University of Nebraska, Lincoln NE, United States of America
| | - Mohamad Saad
- Department of Sociology, University of Nebraska, Lincoln NE, United States of America
| | - Daniel Schaefer
- Department of Sociology, University of Nebraska, Lincoln NE, United States of America
| | - Ashly Jordan
- Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York University, New York, NY, United States of America
- Center for Drug Use and HIV Research, New York University, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Daniel Smith
- Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York University, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Alan Neaigus
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Don Des Jarlais
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Holly Hagan
- Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York University, New York, NY, United States of America
- Center for Drug Use and HIV Research, New York University, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Kirk Dombrowski
- Department of Sociology, University of Nebraska, Lincoln NE, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Darke J, Cresswell T, McPherson S, Hamoodi A. Hepatitis C in a prison in the North East of England: what is the economic impact of the universal offer of testing and emergent medications? J Public Health (Oxf) 2018; 38:e554-e562. [PMID: 28158850 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdv178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Joanne Darke
- Health Protection Team, North East Public Health England Centre, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4WH, UK
| | - Tricia Cresswell
- Health Protection Team, North East Public Health England Centre, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4WH, UK
| | - Stuart McPherson
- Liver Unit, Freeman Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear NE7 7DN, UK
| | - Abi Hamoodi
- Health Improvement Team, North East Public Health England Centre, Newcastle upon Tyne NE15 8NY, UK
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Martinello M, Hajarizadeh B, Grebely J, Dore GJ, Matthews GV. Management of acute HCV infection in the era of direct-acting antiviral therapy. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2018; 15:412-424. [PMID: 29773899 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-018-0026-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The management of acute HCV infection has not been standardized following the availability of direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) for chronic HCV infection, and substantial uncertainty exists regarding the optimal treatment regimen and duration. Despite the lack of direct evidence, the 2016 American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD)-Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) guidelines supported "the same regimens for acute HCV as recommended for chronic HCV infection … owing to high efficacy and safety", whereas the 2016 European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) guidelines recommended sofosbuvir-ledipasvir, sofosbuvir-velpatasvir or sofosbuvir plus daclatasvir for 8 weeks in acute HCV infection, with a longer duration of 12 weeks recommended for those infected with HIV and/or baseline HCV RNA levels >1,000,000 IU/ml. This Review outlines the epidemiology, natural history and diagnosis of acute HCV infection and provides contemporary information on DAAs for acute and recent HCV infection. The Review also discusses the 2016 AASLD-IDSA and EASL recommendations for acute HCV infection management in light of available evidence and highlights key differences in study populations and design that influence interpretation. We focus on populations at high risk of HCV transmission and acquisition, including people who inject drugs and HIV-positive men who have sex with men, and highlight the potential effects of diagnosis and treatment of acute HCV infection in contributing to HCV elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Martinello
- Viral Hepatitis Clinical Research Program, Kirby Institute, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Behzad Hajarizadeh
- Viral Hepatitis Clinical Research Program, Kirby Institute, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jason Grebely
- Viral Hepatitis Clinical Research Program, Kirby Institute, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Gregory J Dore
- Viral Hepatitis Clinical Research Program, Kirby Institute, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Gail V Matthews
- Viral Hepatitis Clinical Research Program, Kirby Institute, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Delile JM, de Ledinghen V, Jauffret-Roustide M, Roux P, Reiller B, Foucher J, Dhumeaux D. Hepatitis C virus prevention and care for drug injectors: the French approach. HEPATOLOGY, MEDICINE AND POLICY 2018; 3:7. [PMID: 30288330 PMCID: PMC5987624 DOI: 10.1186/s41124-018-0033-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2017] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
After France removed hepatitis C treatment reimbursement restrictions on 25 May 2016, an expert report presented recommendations, which focused on vulnerable groups including people who inject drugs (PWID). This commentary presents the key points of the chapter with a particular focus on policy. Thanks to the official lifting of restrictions based on disease stage and to the excellent efficacy and tolerance of the new DAA (Direct-Acting Antivirals) among PWID, the main issue is to improve the HCV care cascade. In France, many HCV-infected PWID, especially active/current PWID, remain undiagnosed and unlinked to care. Our challenge is to improve HCV screening by point of care testing (POCT), outreach methods with mobile teams, rapid tests, FibroScan, etc. and to provide PWID with appropriate services in all the settings they attend, such as drug treatment or harm reduction services, social services, prisons, etc. Another important issue is the prevention of reinfection through comprehensive and long-term follow-up. The report recommends a new national policy: testing and treating PWID as a priority, since this is the best way to eliminate HCV infection. It requires a global strategy consisting of combined and long-term interventions: prevention, outreach, screening, DAA, drug treatment programs including opiate substitution treatment (OST) and various harm reduction programs, including needle exchange programs (NEP). Ideally, these services should be delivered in the same place with an integrated approach. This should lead to meeting the national objective set by the government of eliminating hepatitis C by 2025.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Michel Delile
- Comité d’étude et d’information sur la drogue et les addictions (CEID), 20, place Pey-Berland, 33000 Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Marie Jauffret-Roustide
- Cermes 3 (Inserm U988/CNRS UMR 8211/EHESS/Paris Descartes University) and French National Public Health Agency, Paris, France
| | - Perrine Roux
- Inserm UMR1252/IRD/SESSTIM/Aix-Marseille University/ORS PACA, Marseille, France
| | - Brigitte Reiller
- Comité d’étude et d’information sur la drogue et les addictions (CEID), 20, place Pey-Berland, 33000 Bordeaux, France
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Ward Z, Platt L, Sweeney S, Hope VD, Maher L, Hutchinson S, Palmateer N, Smith J, Craine N, Taylor A, Martin N, Ayres R, Dillon J, Hickman M, Vickerman P. Impact of current and scaled-up levels of hepatitis C prevention and treatment interventions for people who inject drugs in three UK settings-what is required to achieve the WHO's HCV elimination targets? Addiction 2018; 113:1727-1738. [PMID: 29774607 PMCID: PMC6175066 DOI: 10.1111/add.14217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2017] [Revised: 11/15/2017] [Accepted: 03/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To estimate the impact of existing high-coverage needle and syringe provision (HCNSP, defined as obtaining more than one sterile needle and syringe per injection reported) and opioid substitution therapy (OST) on hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission among people who inject drugs (PWID) in three UK settings and to determine required scale-up of interventions, including HCV treatment, needed to reach the World Health Organization (WHO) target of reducing HCV incidence by 90% by 2030. DESIGN HCV transmission modelling using UK empirical estimates for effect of OST and/or HCNSP on individual risk of HCV acquisition. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Three UK cities with varying chronic HCV prevalence (Bristol 45%, Dundee 26%, Walsall 19%), OST (72-81%) and HCNSP coverage (28-56%). MEASUREMENTS Relative change in new HCV infections throughout 2016-30 if current interventions were stopped. Scale-up of HCNSP, OST and HCV treatment required to achieve the WHO elimination target. FINDINGS Removing HCNSP or OST would increase the number of new HCV infections throughout 2016 to 2030 by 23-64 and 92-483%, respectively. Conversely, scaling-up these interventions to 80% coverage could achieve a 29 or 49% reduction in Bristol and Walsall, respectively, whereas Dundee may achieve a 90% decrease in incidence with current levels of intervention because of existing high levels of HCV treatment (47-58 treatments per 1000 PWID). If OST and HCNSP are scaled-up, Walsall and Bristol can achieve the same impact by treating 14 or 40 per 1000 PWID annually, respectively (currently two and nine treatments per 1000 PWID), while 18 and 43 treatments per 1000 PWID would be required if OST and HCNSP are not scaled-up. CONCLUSIONS Current opioid substitution therapy and high-coverage needle and syringe provision coverage is averting substantial hepatitis C transmission in the United Kingdom. Maintaining this coverage while getting current drug injectors onto treatment can reduce incidence by 90% by 2030.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe Ward
- Bristol Medical School, Population Health SciencesUniversity of BristolBristolUK
| | - Lucy Platt
- Faculty of Public Health and PolicyLondon School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | - Sedona Sweeney
- Faculty of Public Health and PolicyLondon School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | - Vivian D. Hope
- Public Health EnglandUK
- Public Health Institute, Liverpool John Moores UniversityLiverpoolUK
| | - Lisa Maher
- Kirby Institute for Infection and Immunity, UNSWAustralia
| | - Sharon Hutchinson
- Health and Life SciencesGlasgow Caledonian UniversityUK
- Blood‐borne Viruses and Sexually Transmitted Infections SectionHealth Protection ScotlandUK
| | - Norah Palmateer
- Health and Life SciencesGlasgow Caledonian UniversityUK
- Blood‐borne Viruses and Sexually Transmitted Infections SectionHealth Protection ScotlandUK
| | - Josie Smith
- Substance Misuse ‐ Drugs and AlcoholPublic Health WalesUK
| | - Noel Craine
- Substance Misuse ‐ Drugs and AlcoholPublic Health WalesUK
| | - Avril Taylor
- School of Media, Society and CultureUniversity of West of ScotlandUK
| | - Natasha Martin
- Department of MedicineUniversity of California, San DiegoUSA
| | | | | | - Matthew Hickman
- Bristol Medical School, Population Health SciencesUniversity of BristolBristolUK
| | - Peter Vickerman
- Bristol Medical School, Population Health SciencesUniversity of BristolBristolUK
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Simmons R, Ireland G, Irving W, Hickman M, Sabin C, Ijaz S, Ramsay M, Lattimore S, Mandal S. Establishing the cascade of care for hepatitis C in England-benchmarking to monitor impact of direct acting antivirals. J Viral Hepat 2018; 25:482-490. [PMID: 29239130 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.12844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Little is known about engagement and retention in care of people diagnosed with chronic hepatitis C (HCV) in England. Establishing a cascade of care informs targeted interventions for improving case finding, referral, treatment uptake and retention in care. Using data from the sentinel surveillance of blood-borne virus (SSBBV) testing between 2005 and 2014, we investigate the continuum of care of those tested for HCV in England. Persons ≥1 year old with an anti-HCV test and subsequent RNA tests between 2005 and 2014 reported to SSBBV were collated. We describe the cascade of care, as the patient pathway from a diagnostic test, referral into care, treatment and patient outcomes. Between 2005 and 2014, 2 390 507 samples were tested for anti-HCV, corresponding to 1 766 515 persons. A total of 53 038 persons (35 190 men and 17 165 women) with anti-HCV positive were newly reported to SSBBV. An RNA test was conducted on 77.0% persons who were anti-HCV positive, 72.3% of whom were viraemic (RNA positive) during this time period, 21.4% had evidence of treatment and 3130 49.5% had evidence of a sustained virological response (SVR). In multivariable models, confirmation of viraemia by RNA test varied by age and region/test setting; evidence of treatment varied by age, year of test and region/test setting; and SVR varied by age, year of test and region/setting of test. In conclusion, our findings provide HCV cascade of care estimates prior to the introduction of direct acting antivirals. These findings provide important baseline cascade estimates to benchmark progress towards elimination of HCV as a major public health threat.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Simmons
- Immunisation, Hepatitis, and Blood Safety Department, Public Health England, London, UK.,The National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit (NIHR HPRU) in Blood Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections, University College London, London, UK
| | - G Ireland
- Immunisation, Hepatitis, and Blood Safety Department, Public Health England, London, UK.,The National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit (NIHR HPRU) in Blood Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections, University College London, London, UK
| | - W Irving
- Gastrointestinal and Liver Disorders Theme, NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre at the Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - M Hickman
- School of Social and Community Medicine, NIHR HPRU in Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - C Sabin
- The National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit (NIHR HPRU) in Blood Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections, University College London, London, UK.,Infection & Population Health, Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - S Ijaz
- The National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit (NIHR HPRU) in Blood Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections, University College London, London, UK.,Blood Borne Virus Unit, Public Health England, London, UK
| | - M Ramsay
- Immunisation, Hepatitis, and Blood Safety Department, Public Health England, London, UK
| | - S Lattimore
- Immunisation, Hepatitis, and Blood Safety Department, Public Health England, London, UK.,The National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit (NIHR HPRU) in Blood Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections, University College London, London, UK
| | - S Mandal
- Immunisation, Hepatitis, and Blood Safety Department, Public Health England, London, UK.,The National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit (NIHR HPRU) in Blood Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections, University College London, London, UK
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Salmon D, Mondelli MU, Maticic M, Arends JE. The benefits of hepatitis C virus cure: Every rose has thorns. J Viral Hepat 2018; 25:320-328. [PMID: 29112304 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.12823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
To examine mid-term benefits on hepatic complications, extrahepatic clinical syndromes and quality of life associated with HCV cure; to review the few safety issues linked to oral direct-acting antivirals (DAAs); and to discuss the potential population benefits of reducing the burden of HCV infection. DAAs cure HCV infection in more than 95% of patients. The halting of liver inflammation and fibrosis progression translates into both hepatic and extrahepatic benefits and reduces the need for liver transplantation. A reduction in the frequency of extrahepatic manifestations such as mixed cryoglobulinaemia and vasculitis and improvements in quality of life and fatigue have also been described. A few safety issues linked to DAAs such as the potential recurrence of aggressive HCC, the flares of hepatitis B virus in patients with overt or occult HBV infection are been discussed. Curing HCV infection also has a high potential to reduce the burden of HCV infection at the population level. With widespread scaling up of HCV treatment, several modeling studies suggest that major reductions in HCV prevalence and incidence are possible, and that elimination of viral hepatitis is an achievable target by 2030.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Salmon
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Center for Diagnosis, Paris Centre University Hospitals, APHP, Paris Descartes University, Paris, France
| | - M U Mondelli
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - M Maticic
- Faculty of Medicine, Clinic for Infectious Diseases and Febrile Illnesses, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - J E Arends
- Department of Internal Medicine, Infectious diseases section, University Medical Center Utrecht (UMCU), Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Béguelin C, Suter A, Bernasconi E, Fehr J, Kovari H, Bucher HC, Stoeckle M, Cavassini M, Rougemont M, Schmid P, Wandeler G, Rauch A. Trends in HCV treatment uptake, efficacy and impact on liver fibrosis in the Swiss HIV Cohort Study. Liver Int 2018; 38:424-431. [PMID: 28741901 DOI: 10.1111/liv.13528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2017] [Accepted: 07/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Hepatitis C virus (HCV) therapies with interferon-free second-generation direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) are highly effective and well tolerated. They have the potential to increase treatment eligibility and efficacy in HIV-infected patients. We assessed the impact of DAAs on treatment uptake and efficacy, as well as its impact on the burden of liver disease in the Swiss HIV Cohort Study (SHCS). METHODS We describe clinical and virological characteristics of patients treated with second-generation DAAs. We compared treatment incidence, sustained virological response (SVR)12 and liver fibrosis stages between three time periods: period 1, 01/2009-08/2011 (prior to the availability of DAAs); period 2, 09/2011-03/2014 (first generation DAAs); period 3, 04/2014-12/2015 (second generation DAAs). RESULTS At the beginning of the third period, 876 SHCS participants had a chronic HCV infection of whom 180 (20%) started treatment with a second-generation DAA. Three-quarters of them had advanced liver fibrosis (Metavir ≥ F3) of whom 80% were cirrhotics. SVR12 was achieved in 173/180 (96%) patients, three patients died and four experienced a virological failure. Over the three time periods, treatment uptake (4.5/100 py, 5.7/100 py, 22.4/100 py) and efficacy (54%, 70%, 96% SVR12) continuously increased. The proportion of cirrhotic patients with replicating HCV infection in the SHCS declined from 25% at the beginning to 12% at the end of the last period. CONCLUSIONS After the introduction of second-generation DAAs, we observed an increase in treatment uptake and efficacy which resulted in a significant reduction in the number of cirrhotic patients with a replicating HCV infection in the SHCS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Béguelin
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Bern University Hospital and University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Annatina Suter
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Bern University Hospital and University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Enos Bernasconi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Regional Hospital Lugano, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Jan Fehr
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Helen Kovari
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Heiner C Bucher
- Basel Institute for Clinical Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,Department of Infectious Diseases & Hospital Hygiene, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Marcel Stoeckle
- Department of Infectious Diseases & Hospital Hygiene, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Mathias Cavassini
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Lausanne, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Mathieu Rougemont
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Geneva, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Patrick Schmid
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, Cantonal Hospital St.Gallen, St.Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Gilles Wandeler
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Bern University Hospital and University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.,Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Andri Rauch
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Bern University Hospital and University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Fraser H, Martin NK, Brummer-Korvenkontio H, Carrieri P, Dalgard O, Dillon J, Goldberg D, Hutchinson S, Jauffret-Roustide M, Kåberg M, Matser AA, Matičič M, Midgard H, Mravcik V, Øvrehus A, Prins M, Reimer J, Robaeys G, Schulte B, van Santen DK, Zimmermann R, Vickerman P, Hickman M. Model projections on the impact of HCV treatment in the prevention of HCV transmission among people who inject drugs in Europe. J Hepatol 2018; 68:402-411. [PMID: 29080808 PMCID: PMC5841161 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2017.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2016] [Revised: 10/02/2017] [Accepted: 10/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Prevention of hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission among people who inject drugs (PWID) is critical for eliminating HCV in Europe. We estimated the impact of current and scaled-up HCV treatment with and without scaling up opioid substitution therapy (OST) and needle and syringe programmes (NSPs) across Europe over the next 10 years. METHODS We collected data on PWID HCV treatment rates, PWID prevalence, HCV prevalence, OST, and NSP coverage from 11 European settings. We parameterised an HCV transmission model to setting-specific data that project chronic HCV prevalence and incidence among PWID. RESULTS At baseline, chronic HCV prevalence varied from <25% (Slovenia/Czech Republic) to >55% (Finland/Sweden), and <2% (Amsterdam/Hamburg/Norway/Denmark/Sweden) to 5% (Slovenia/Czech Republic) of chronically infected PWID were treated annually. The current treatment rates using new direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) may achieve observable reductions in chronic prevalence (38-63%) in 10 years in Czech Republic, Slovenia, and Amsterdam. Doubling the HCV treatment rates will reduce prevalence in other sites (12-24%; Belgium/Denmark/Hamburg/Norway/Scotland), but is unlikely to reduce prevalence in Sweden and Finland. Scaling-up OST and NSP to 80% coverage with current treatment rates using DAAs could achieve observable reductions in HCV prevalence (18-79%) in all sites. Using DAAs, Slovenia and Amsterdam are projected to reduce incidence to 2 per 100 person years or less in 10 years. Moderate to substantial increases in the current treatment rates are required to achieve the same impact elsewhere, from 1.4 to 3 times (Czech Republic and France), 5-17 times (France, Scotland, Hamburg, Norway, Denmark, Belgium, and Sweden), to 200 times (Finland). Scaling-up OST and NSP coverage to 80% in all sites reduces treatment scale-up needed by 20-80%. CONCLUSIONS The scale-up of HCV treatment and other interventions is needed in most settings to minimise HCV transmission among PWID in Europe. LAY SUMMARY Measuring the amount of HCV in the population of PWID is uncertain. To reduce HCV infection to minimal levels in Europe will require scale-up of both HCV treatment and other interventions that reduce injecting risk (especially OST and provision of sterile injecting equipment).
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Fraser
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
| | - Natasha K Martin
- Division of Global Public Health, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA; Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Patrizia Carrieri
- Aix Marseille Univ, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, Marseille, France; ORS PACA, Observatoire Régional de la Santé Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Marseille, France
| | - Olav Dalgard
- University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
| | | | | | - Sharon Hutchinson
- Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, Scotland, UK; Health Protection Scotland, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Marie Jauffret-Roustide
- French Institute for Public Health Surveillance, St. Maurice, France; CERMES3 (Inserm U988/UMR CNRS 8211/EHESS/Paris Descartes University), Paris, France
| | - Martin Kåberg
- Department of Medicine, Huddinge, Division of Infectious Diseases, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Amy A Matser
- Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Mojca Matičič
- University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia; University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | | | - Viktor Mravcik
- National Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, Prague, Czech Republic; Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic; National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic
| | | | - Maria Prins
- Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jens Reimer
- HealthNorth, Bremen, Germany; University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Geert Robaeys
- Ziekenhuis Oost-Limburg, Genk, Belgium; Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium; University Hospital Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | | | | | - Peter Vickerman
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Matthew Hickman
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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Balasubramanian K, Patil VM. Quantum molecular modeling of hepatitis C virus inhibition through non-structural protein 5B polymerase receptor binding of C 5-arylidene rhodanines. Comput Biol Chem 2018; 73:147-158. [PMID: 29486389 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiolchem.2018.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2016] [Revised: 01/09/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
We have carried out high-level quantum chemical computations followed by molecular docking studies on a set of 17C5-arylidene rhodanine isomers to provide insights into the binding modes with different reported binding pockets of the nonstructural protein 5B (NS5B) polymerase that contribute to the hepatitis C virus (HCV) inhibition. We optimized the multi-target profile of the selected rhodanine analogs to investigate potential non-nucleotide inhibitors (NNIs) by quantum chemical optimization of the 18 isomers followed by docking with quantum chemically optimized structures of each isomer with NS5B polymerase at multiple binding pockets. The binding affinities of the PP-I, PP-II and TP-II pockets of NS5B polymerase were analyzed for all the 17 isomers of 2-[(5Z)-5-(2,4-dichlorobenzylidene)-4-oxo-2-thioxo-1,3-thiazolidin-3-yl]-3-phenylpropanoic acid. On the basis of binding propensity at the different pockets and inhibitor constants, we ranked these isomers as potential candidates for the HCV inhibition. We have identified four isomers as promising NNIs of NS5B polymerase with comparable binding and inhibition to the standard (1,3) dichloro substituted isomer that exhibits in vitro activity and several other isomers as candidates in a "multi-targeted drug" approach.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vaishali M Patil
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, KIET School of Pharmacy, KIET Group of Institutions, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India.
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40
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Stepanova M, Thompson A, Doyle J, Younossi I, de Avila L, Younossi ZM. Hepatitis C Virus–Infected Patients Receiving Opioid Substitution Therapy Experience Improvement in Patient-Reported Outcomes Following Treatment With Interferon-Free Regimens. J Infect Dis 2017; 217:1033-1043. [DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jix681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2017] [Accepted: 12/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Stepanova
- Center for Outcomes Research in Liver Diseases, Washington, D. C
| | | | - Joseph Doyle
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Alfred Hospital, Monash University
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Issah Younossi
- Center for Outcomes Research in Liver Diseases, Washington, D. C
| | - Leyla de Avila
- Betty and Guy Beatty Center for Integrated Research, Inova Health System, Falls Church, Virginia
| | - Zobair M Younossi
- Center for Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Inova Fairfax Hospital
- Betty and Guy Beatty Center for Integrated Research, Inova Health System, Falls Church, Virginia
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Brouard C, Boussac-Zarebska M, Silvain C, Durand J, de Lédinghen V, Pillonel J, Delarocque-Astagneau E. Rapid and large-scale implementation of HCV treatment advances in France, 2007-2015. BMC Infect Dis 2017; 17:784. [PMID: 29262788 PMCID: PMC5738822 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-017-2889-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Accepted: 12/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The last decade was marked by major advances in HCV treatment with the introduction of first wave protease inhibitors (1st-wave PIs, telaprevir or boceprevir) in 2011 and second direct-acting antivirals (2nd-wave DAAs) in 2014, that followed low effective pegylated interferon α / ribavirin bitherapy. We estimated the number of patients initiating HCV treatment in France between 2007 and 2015 according to the type of therapy, described their demographical characteristics, and estimated how many were cured with 2nd-wave DAAs in 2014-2015. METHODS Individual data from the national health insurance information system were analysed. HCV treatment initiation was defined as a drug reimbursement in the absence of any reimbursement for the same drug in the previous six weeks. RESULTS Between 2007 and 2015, 72,277 patients initiated at least one HCV treatment. The annual number of patients initiating treatment decreased from 2007 (~13,300) to 2010 (~10,000). It then increased with the introduction of 1st-wave PIs (~12,500 in 2012), before decreasing again in 2013 (~8400). A marked increase followed upon the approval of 2nd-wave DAAs in 2014 (~11,600). Approximately, 8700 and 14,700 patients initiated 2nd-wave DAAs in 2014 and 2015, respectively, corresponding to an estimated 20,300 cured patients in 2014-2015. Patients initiating HCV treatment were mostly male (~65% throughout the 9-year period). Women were older than men (mean age: 55.0 vs. 48.9). Increasing age was associated with more advanced treatment. Among patients initiating 2nd-wave DAAs, the proportions of those under 40 and over 79 years old increased between 2014 and 2015, whereas the proportion of those previously treated for HCV 2007 onwards declined. CONCLUSIONS Successive advances in HCV treatment have been rapidly and widely implemented in France. With the announcement of universal access to DAAs in mid-2016 and price reductions, access to 2nd-wave DAAs is expected to expand even more.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cécile Brouard
- Santé publique France, the national public health agency, Saint-Maurice, France
| | | | | | - Julien Durand
- Santé publique France, the national public health agency, Saint-Maurice, France
| | - Victor de Lédinghen
- Investigation Centre of Liver Fibrosis, Haut-Lévêque Hospital, Bordeaux University Hospital, Pessac, France
| | - Josiane Pillonel
- Santé publique France, the national public health agency, Saint-Maurice, France
| | - Elisabeth Delarocque-Astagneau
- INSERM 1181, Biostatistics, Biomathematics, Pharmacoepidemiology, and Infectious Diseases (B2PHI), Paris, France
- Institut Pasteur, B2PHI, Paris, France
- Versailles Saint-Quentin University, UMR 1181, B2PHI, Montigny-le-Bretonneux, France
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Gordon J, Bocking N, Pouteau K, Farrell T, Ryan G, Kelly L. First Nations hepatitis C virus infections: Six-year retrospective study of on-reserve rates of newly reported infections in northwestern Ontario. CANADIAN FAMILY PHYSICIAN MEDECIN DE FAMILLE CANADIEN 2017; 63:e488-e494. [PMID: 29138174 PMCID: PMC5685465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To document rates of newly reported hepatitis C virus (HCV) cases from 2010 to 2015 in remote First Nations communities. DESIGN Retrospective analysis of aggregate data of newly reported HCV antibody-positive (Ab+) cases. SETTING Northwestern Ontario. PARTICIPANTS A total of 31 First Nations communities (an on-reserve population of 20 901) supported in health care by the Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The aggregate characteristic data included year of notification, age range, and sex for a 6-year period (2010 to 2015). RESULTS There were 267 HCV Ab+ cases in the 6-year study period. The incidence in 2015 was 324.2 per 100 000 population. This is 11 times the rate for all of Ontario. The most common associated risk factor was sharing of intravenous drug use equipment. Women made up 52% of patients with newly reported HCV Ab+ cases. More than 45% of cases were in patients between 20 and 29 years of age. CONCLUSION This high burden of newly reported HCV Ab+ cases in geographically remote First Nations communities is concerning, and prevention and treatment resources are needed. This burden of disease might pose more urgent health and social challenges than can be generalized from the experience of the rest of Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet Gordon
- Chief Operating Officer for the Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority in Ontario
| | - Natalie Bocking
- Public health physician in the Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority
| | | | - Terri Farrell
- Medical Director for the Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority
| | - Gareth Ryan
- Research intern in the Anishinaabe Bimaadiziwin Research Program in Sioux Lookout
| | - Len Kelly
- Research consultant for the Anishinaabe Bimaadiziwin Research Program.
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Bennett H, Gordon J, Jones B, Ward T, Webster S, Kalsekar A, Yuan Y, Brenner M, McEwan P. Hepatitis C disease transmission and treatment uptake: impact on the cost-effectiveness of new direct-acting antiviral therapies. THE EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF HEALTH ECONOMICS : HEPAC : HEALTH ECONOMICS IN PREVENTION AND CARE 2017; 18:1001-1011. [PMID: 27803989 DOI: 10.1007/s10198-016-0844-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2016] [Accepted: 10/18/2016] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment can reduce the incidence of future infections through removing opportunities for onward transmission. This benefit is not captured in conventional cost-effectiveness evaluations of treatment and is particularly relevant in patient groups with a high risk of transmission, such as those people who inject drugs (PWID), where the treatment rates have been historically low. This study aimed to quantify how reduced HCV transmission changes the cost-effectiveness of new direct-acting antiviral (DAA) regimens as a function of treatment uptake rates. METHODS An established model of HCV disease transmission and progression was used to quantify the impact of treatment uptake (10-100%), within the PWID population, on the cost-effectiveness of a DAA regimen versus pre-DAA standard of care, conducted using daclatasvir plus sofosbuvir in the UK setting as an illustrative example. RESULTS The consequences of reduced disease transmission due to treatment were associated with additional net monetary benefit of £24,304-£90,559 per patient treated at £20,000/QALY, when 10-100% of eligible patients receive treatment with 100% efficacy. Dependent on patient genotype, the cost-effectiveness of HCV treatment using daclatasvir plus sofosbuvir improved by 36-79% versus conventional analysis, at 10-100% treatment uptake in the PWID population. CONCLUSIONS The estimated cost-effectiveness of HCV treatment was shown to improve as more patients are treated, suggesting that the value of DAA regimens to the NHS could be enhanced by improved treatment uptake rates among PWID. However, the challenge for the future will lie in achieving increased rates of treatment uptake, particularly in the PWID population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley Bennett
- HEOR, Health Economics and Outcomes Research Ltd, 9 Oak Tree Court, Mulberry Drive, Cardiff Gate Business Park, Cardiff, CF23 8RS, UK.
| | - Jason Gordon
- HEOR, Health Economics and Outcomes Research Ltd, 9 Oak Tree Court, Mulberry Drive, Cardiff Gate Business Park, Cardiff, CF23 8RS, UK
- Department of Public Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Beverley Jones
- HEOR, Health Economics and Outcomes Research Ltd, 9 Oak Tree Court, Mulberry Drive, Cardiff Gate Business Park, Cardiff, CF23 8RS, UK
| | - Thomas Ward
- HEOR, Health Economics and Outcomes Research Ltd, 9 Oak Tree Court, Mulberry Drive, Cardiff Gate Business Park, Cardiff, CF23 8RS, UK
| | - Samantha Webster
- HEOR, Health Economics and Outcomes Research Ltd, 9 Oak Tree Court, Mulberry Drive, Cardiff Gate Business Park, Cardiff, CF23 8RS, UK
| | - Anupama Kalsekar
- World Wide Health Economics and Outcomes Research, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Princeton, USA
| | - Yong Yuan
- World Wide Health Economics and Outcomes Research, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Princeton, USA
| | - Michael Brenner
- UK HEOR, Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Uxbridge, UK
| | - Phil McEwan
- HEOR, Health Economics and Outcomes Research Ltd, 9 Oak Tree Court, Mulberry Drive, Cardiff Gate Business Park, Cardiff, CF23 8RS, UK
- School of Human and Health Sciences, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
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Martinello M, Hajarizadeh B, Grebely J, Dore GJ, Matthews GV. HCV Cure and Reinfection Among People With HIV/HCV Coinfection and People Who Inject Drugs. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2017; 14:110-121. [PMID: 28432579 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-017-0358-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Highly effective, well-tolerated interferon-free direct-acting antivirals (DAA) have revolutionised hepatitis C virus (HCV) therapeutics, with the opportunity for broad treatment scale-up among marginalised or "high-risk" populations, including people who inject drugs (PWID) and people with HIV/HCV coinfection. RECENT FINDINGS Concern that HCV reinfection may compromise HCV treatment outcomes is sometimes cited as a reason for not offering treatment to current and former PWID. However, the incidence of reinfection following interferon-based treatment for chronic HCV is low among PWID. Reinfection rates in HIV-positive men-who-have-sex-with-men (MSM) are varied, with high incidence reported in some cohorts. Mathematical modelling suggests that substantial reductions in HCV incidence and prevalence could be achieved with targeted DAA therapy among those at the highest risk of ongoing transmission. This review will summarise the recent literature on DAA efficacy in PWID and people with HIV/HCV coinfection, discuss the individual- and population-level impact of DAA treatment scale-up and reinfection, and highlight ongoing and future research questions in expanding HCV care and treatment to those populations at high risk of ongoing HCV transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Martinello
- Viral Hepatitis Clinical Research Program, Kirby Institute, UNSW Australia, Wallace Wurth Building, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.
| | - Behzad Hajarizadeh
- Viral Hepatitis Clinical Research Program, Kirby Institute, UNSW Australia, Wallace Wurth Building, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Jason Grebely
- Viral Hepatitis Clinical Research Program, Kirby Institute, UNSW Australia, Wallace Wurth Building, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Gregory J Dore
- Viral Hepatitis Clinical Research Program, Kirby Institute, UNSW Australia, Wallace Wurth Building, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.,St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Gail V Matthews
- Viral Hepatitis Clinical Research Program, Kirby Institute, UNSW Australia, Wallace Wurth Building, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.,St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Panagiotoglou D, Krebs E, Min JE, Olding M, Ahamad K, Ti L, Montaner JSG, Nosyk B. Initiating HCV treatment with direct acting agents in opioid agonist treatment: When to start for people co-infected with HIV? THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2017; 47:169-176. [PMID: 28578865 PMCID: PMC5798603 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2017.05.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2017] [Revised: 04/04/2017] [Accepted: 05/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Direct acting antivirals (DAA) raise the possibility of eliminating Hepatitis C virus (HCV) among people who inject drugs (PWID). However, concerns regarding treatment retention and reinfection challenge implementation efforts. Opioid agonist treatment (OAT) provides an opportunity to engage HCV-positive PWID into DAA-based treatment. Our objective was to identify when OAT adherence sufficiently improved to inform DAA initiation in OAT settings, assuming continuous OAT retention for at least twelve weeks is necessary to complete the DAA treatment course. METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study of HCV/HIV co-infected PWID from a population-level linked administrative database of people diagnosed and living with HIV in British Columbia, Canada between 01/1996 and 12/2013. We used monthly follow-up data after initial OAT entry and considered the effects of demographics, disease severity, and HIV and OAT treatment characteristics over time on the probability of subsequent OAT retention of ≥12 weeks, and ≥8 weeks for sensitivity analysis. We fit a generalized linear mixed model to the overall study population, and on stratified samples of those continuously engaged on combination antiretroviral therapy (≥95% ART adherence). A set of monthly indicator variables (months 1, …, 7, >7) were included to fulfil the study objective. RESULTS Our study included 1427 HCV/HIV co-infected PWID (39.0% female, 68.8% OAT-naïve). The odds of subsequent twelve-week retention in OAT were statistically significantly greater in month 3 versus month 1 (adjusted odds ratio: 1.18; 95% confidence interval: 1.02, 1.37); and the odds of subsequent 8-week retention in OAT were statistically significantly greater in month 2 versus month 1 (1.15, 95% CI: 1.02, 1.31). Among continuously ART-adherent individuals, the odds of subsequent twelve-week retention were not statistically significantly greater than in month 1 (month 2: 1.12 (0.82, 1.51); month 3: 1.08 (0.79, 1.47); month 4: 1.24 (0.91, 1.71)). CONCLUSION We provide evidence that among HCV/HIV co-infected PWID, those retained in OAT for three or more months had higher odds of completing an additional twelve weeks of OAT, compared to no difference in those already receiving ART. These data may have implications for adherence to DAA therapy and further studies are needed to understand the optimal timing of DAA therapy in PWID receiving and not receiving OAT.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emanuel Krebs
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Jeong Eun Min
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | - Keith Ahamad
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada; Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Lianping Ti
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada; Division of AIDS, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Julio S G Montaner
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada; Division of AIDS, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Bohdan Nosyk
- BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada; Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, Canada
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Platt L, Sweeney S, Ward Z, Guinness L, Hickman M, Hope V, Hutchinson S, Maher L, Iversen J, Craine N, Taylor A, Munro A, Parry J, Smith J, Vickerman P. Assessing the impact and cost-effectiveness of needle and syringe provision and opioid substitution therapy on hepatitis C transmission among people who inject drugs in the UK: an analysis of pooled data sets and economic modelling. PUBLIC HEALTH RESEARCH 2017. [DOI: 10.3310/phr05050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
There is limited evidence of the impact of needle and syringe programmes (NSPs) and opioid substitution therapy (OST) on hepatitis C virus (HCV) incidence among people who inject drugs (PWID), nor have there been any economic evaluations.
Objective(s)
To measure (1) the impact of NSP and OST, (2) changes in the extent of provision of both interventions, and (3) costs and cost-effectiveness of NSPs on HCV infection transmission.
Design
We conducted (1) a systematic review; (2) an analysis of existing data sets, including collating costs of NSPs; and (3) a dynamic deterministic model to estimate the impact of differing OST/NSP intervention coverage levels for reducing HCV infection prevalence, incidence and disease burden, and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios to measure the cost-effectiveness of current NSP provision versus no provision.
Setting
Cost-effectiveness analysis and impact modelling in three UK sites. The pooled analysis drew on data from the UK and Australia. The review was international.
Participants
PWID.
Interventions
NSP coverage (proportion of injections covered by clean needles) and OST.
Outcome
New cases of HCV infection.
Results
The review suggested that OST reduced the risk of HCV infection acquisition by 50% [rate ratio (RR) 0.50, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.40 to 0.63]. Weaker evidence was found in areas of high (≥ 100%) NSP coverage (RR 0.77, 95% CI 0.38 to 1.54) internationally. There was moderate evidence for combined high coverage of NSPs and OST (RR 0.29, 95% CI 0.13 to 0.65). The pooled analysis showed that combined high coverage of NSPs and OST reduced the risk of HCV infection acquisition by 29–71% compared with those on minimal harm reduction (no OST, ≤ 100% NSP coverage). NSPs are likely to be cost-effective and are cost-saving in some settings. The impact modelling suggest that removing OST (current coverage 81%) and NSPs (coverage 54%) in one site would increase HCV infection incidence by 329% [95% credible interval (CrI) 110% to 953%] in 2031 and at least double (132% increase; 95% CrI 51% to 306%) the number of new infections over 15 years. Increasing NSP coverage to 80% has the largest impact in the site with the lowest current NSP coverage (35%), resulting in a 27% (95% CrI 7% to 43%) decrease in new infections and 41% (95% CrI 11% to 72%) decrease in incidence by 2031 compared with 2016. Addressing homelessness and reducing the harm associated with the injection of crack cocaine could avert approximately 60% of HCV infections over the next 15 years.
Limitations
Findings are limited by the misclassification of NSP coverage and the simplified intervention definition that fails to capture the integrated services that address other social and health needs as part of this.
Conclusions
There is moderate evidence of the effectiveness of OST and NSPs, especially in combination, on HCV infection acquisition risk. Policies to ensure that NSPs can be accessed alongside OST are needed. NSPs are cost-saving in some sites and cost-effective in others. NSPs and OST are likely to prevent considerable rates of HCV infection in the UK. Increasing NSP coverage will have most impact in settings with low coverage. Scaling up other interventions such as HCV infection treatment are needed to decrease epidemics to low levels in higher prevalence settings.
Future work
To understand the mechanisms through which NSPs and OST achieve their effect and the optimum contexts to support implementation.
Funding
The National Institute for Health Research Public Health Research programme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy Platt
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Sedona Sweeney
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Zoe Ward
- School of Social and Community Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Lorna Guinness
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Matthew Hickman
- School of Social and Community Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Vivian Hope
- Centre for Infectious Disease Surveillance and Control, Public Health England, London, UK
| | - Sharon Hutchinson
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
| | - Lisa Maher
- Viral Hepatitis Epidemiology and Prevention Program, Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jenny Iversen
- Viral Hepatitis Epidemiology and Prevention Program, Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Noel Craine
- Health Protection Division, Public Health Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | - Avril Taylor
- School of Media Society and Culture, University of the West of Scotland, Paisley, UK
| | - Alison Munro
- School of Social Science, University of the West of Scotland, Paisley, UK
| | - John Parry
- Centre for Infectious Disease Surveillance and Control, Public Health England, London, UK
| | - Josie Smith
- Health Protection Division, Public Health Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | - Peter Vickerman
- School of Social and Community Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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Effect of coinfection with hepatitis C virus on survival of individuals with HIV-1 infection. Curr Opin HIV AIDS 2017; 11:521-526. [PMID: 27716732 DOI: 10.1097/coh.0000000000000292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Hepatitis C virus (HCV) coinfection is a common and an important comorbidity in HIV infection. We review current trends in mortality and the potential for early combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) and HCV therapy to improve survival in coinfected patients. RECENT FINDINGS HIV/HCV coinfection increases risk of death from all causes, and from liver disease and harmful drug use in particular. There is growing evidence for a direct role of HIV in liver fibrogenesis and for cART to decrease the risk of dying from liver disease in coinfected persons. Sustained virologic responses after HCV treatment greatly impact mortality by reducing rates of hepatic decompensation, hepatocellular carcinoma and death from liver-related and nonliver-related causes by at least 50%, but treatment uptake has been low so far. Recent epidemiologic studies do suggest that liver-related mortality is declining in recent calendar periods; however, methodological limitations of currently available studies are important. SUMMARY Early cART and wider HCV treatment have the potential to markedly reduce HCV-related mortality and thus increase survival overall for HIV-infected populations. However, HCV treatment will need to be greatly scaled up. Given the complex nature of the populations affected, future studies will need to be carefully designed and controlled to rigorously evaluate the impact of these revolutionary therapies on survival.
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Gountas, Sypsa, Anagnostou O, Martin N, Vickerman P, Kafetzopoulos E, Hatzakis A. Treatment and primary prevention in people who inject drugs for chronic hepatitis C infection: is elimination possible in a high-prevalence setting? Addiction 2017; 112:1290-1299. [PMID: 28107585 PMCID: PMC5553636 DOI: 10.1111/add.13764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2016] [Revised: 09/09/2016] [Accepted: 01/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To project the impact of scaling-up oral anti-viral therapy and harm reduction on chronic hepatitis C (CHC) prevalence and incidence among people who inject drugs (PWID) in Greece, to estimate the relationship between required treatment levels and expansion of harm reduction programmes to achieve specific targets and to examine whether hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination among PWID is possible in this high-prevalence setting. DESIGN A dynamic discrete time, stochastic individual-based model was developed to simulate HCV transmission among PWID incorporating the effect of HCV treatment and harm reduction strategies, and allowing for re-infection following treatment. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS The population of 8300 PWID in Athens Metropolitan area. MEASUREMENTS Reduction in HCV prevalence and incidence in 2030 compared with 2016. FINDINGS Moderate expansion of HCV treatment (treating 4-8% of PWID/year), with a simultaneous increase of 2%/year in harm reduction coverage (from 44 to 72% coverage over 15 years), was projected to reduce CHC prevalence among PWID in Athens by 46.2-94.8% in 2030, compared with 2016. CHC prevalence would reduce to below 10% within the next 4-5 years if annual HCV treatment numbers were increased up to 16-20% PWID/year. The effect of harm reduction on incidence was more pronounced under lower treatment rates. CONCLUSIONS Based on theoretical model projections, scaled-up hepatitis C virus treatment and harm reduction interventions could achieve major reductions in hepatitis C virus incidence and prevalence among people who inject drugs in Athens, Greece by 2030. Chronic hepatitis C could be eliminated in the next 4-5 years by increasing treatment to more than 16% of people who inject drugs per year combined with moderate increases in harm reduction coverage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gountas
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology & Medical Statistics, Athens University Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | - Sypsa
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology & Medical Statistics, Athens University Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | | | - N.K Martin
- Division of Global Public Health, University of California, San Diego, USA,School of Social and Community Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol
| | - P. Vickerman
- School of Social and Community Medicine, University of Bristol, Bristol
| | | | - A. Hatzakis
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology & Medical Statistics, Athens University Medical School, Athens, Greece
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Mukherjee TI, Pillai V, Ali SH, Altice FL, Kamarulzaman A, Wickersham JA. Evaluation of a hepatitis C education intervention with clients enrolled in methadone maintenance and needle/syringe programs in Malaysia. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2017; 47:144-152. [PMID: 28652072 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2017.05.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2016] [Revised: 05/11/2017] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Approximately 40%-90% of people who inject drugs (PWID) in Malaysia have hepatitis C (HCV). PWID continue to be disproportionately affected by HCV due to their lack of knowledge, perceived risk and interest in HCV treatment. Education interventions may be an effective strategy for increasing HCV knowledge in PWID, and harm reduction services are uniquely positioned to implement and deploy such interventions. METHODS We recruited 176 clients from methadone maintenance treatment (MMT: N=110) and needle/syringe programs (NSP: N=66) between November 2015 and August 2016. After baseline knowledge assessments, clients participated in a standardized, 45-min HCV education program and completed post-intervention knowledge assessments to measure change in knowledge and treatment interest. RESULTS Participants were mostly male (96.3%), Malay (94.9%), and in their early 40s (mean=42.6years). Following the intervention, overall knowledge scores and treatment interest in MMT clients increased by 68% and 16%, respectively (p<0.001). In contrast, NSP clients showed no significant improvement in overall knowledge or treatment interest, and perceived greater treatment barriers. Multivariate linear regression to assess correlates of HCV knowledge post-intervention revealed that optimal dosage of MMT and having had an HIV test in the past year significantly increased HCV knowledge. Having received a hepatitis B vaccine, however, was not associated with increased HCV knowledge after participating in an education session. CONCLUSION Generally, HCV knowledge and screening is low among clients engaged in MMT and NSP services in Malaysia. Integrating a brief, but comprehensive HCV education session within harm reduction services may be a low-cost and effective strategy in improving overall HCV knowledge and risk behaviors in resource-limited settings. In order to be an effective public health approach, however, education interventions must be paired with strategies that improve social, economic and political outcomes for PWID. Doing so may reduce HCV disparities by increasing screening and treatment interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trena I Mukherjee
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, AIDS Program, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Veena Pillai
- Centre of Excellence for Research in AIDS (CERiA), Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Siti Hafizah Ali
- Centre of Excellence for Research in AIDS (CERiA), Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Frederick L Altice
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, AIDS Program, New Haven, CT, USA; Centre of Excellence for Research in AIDS (CERiA), Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Yale University School of Public Health, Division of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, CT, USA
| | - Adeeba Kamarulzaman
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, AIDS Program, New Haven, CT, USA; Centre of Excellence for Research in AIDS (CERiA), Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Jeffrey A Wickersham
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, AIDS Program, New Haven, CT, USA; Centre of Excellence for Research in AIDS (CERiA), Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Elsherif O, Bannan C, Keating S, McKiernan S, Bergin C, Norris S. Outcomes from a large 10 year hepatitis C treatment programme in people who inject drugs: No effect of recent or former injecting drug use on treatment adherence or therapeutic response. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0178398. [PMID: 28636638 PMCID: PMC5479520 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0178398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2016] [Accepted: 05/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS People who inject drugs (PWID) are historically viewed as having "difficult to treat" hepatitis C disease, with perceived inferior treatment adherence and outcomes, and concerns regarding reinfection risk. We evaluated for differences in treatment adherence and response to Peginterferon-alfa-2a/Ribavirin (Peg-IFNα/RBV) in a large urban cohort with and without a history of remote or recent injection drug use. METHODS Patient data was retrospectively reviewed for 1000 consecutive patients-608 former (no injecting drug use for 6 months of therapy), 85 recent (injecting drug use within 6 months) PWID, and 307 non-drug users who were treated for chronic hepatitis C with Peg-IFNα/RBV. The groups were compared for baseline characteristics, treatment adherence, and outcome. RESULTS There was no significant difference in treatment non-adherence between the groups (8.4% in PWID vs 6.8% in non-PWIDs; RR = 1.23, CI 0.76-1.99). The overall SVR rate in PWID (64.2%) was not different from non-PWIDs (60.9%) [RR = 1.05, 95% CI 0.95-1.17]. There was no significant difference in SVR rates between the groups controlling for genotype (48.4% vs 48.4% for genotype 1; 74.9 vs 73.3% for genotype 3). Former and recent PWID had similar adherence rates. CONCLUSIONS PWID have comparable treatment adherence and SVR rates when compared to non-drug users treated with Peg-IFNα/RBV. These data support a public health strategy of HCV treatment and eradication in PWID in the DAA era.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Elsherif
- Department of Hepatology, St. James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ciaran Bannan
- Department of Genito Urinary Medicine and Infectious Diseases, St. James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Susan McKiernan
- Department of Hepatology, St. James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Colm Bergin
- Department of Genito Urinary Medicine and Infectious Diseases, St. James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Suzanne Norris
- Department of Hepatology, St. James’s Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
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