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Valerio H, Marshall AD, Conway A, Treloar C, Carter L, Martinello M, Henderson C, Amin J, Read P, Silk D, Degenhardt L, Prain B, Alavi M, Dore GJ, Grebely J. Factors associated with hepatitis C testing, treatment, and current hepatitis C infection among men and women who inject drugs: The ETHOS engage study. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2024; 127:104394. [PMID: 38608357 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2024.104394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evaluating gender-specific trends in hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment uptake among men and women who inject drugs is crucial for ensuring equitable progress towards HCV elimination. This study aimed to quantify differences in testing, treatment, and current HCV infection between men and women who inject drugs. METHOD ETHOS Engage is an observational cohort study of people who inject drugs attending drug treatment clinics and needle and syringe programs in Australia recruited from May 2018-September 2019 (wave 1) and November 2019-April 2021 (wave 2). Participants completed a questionnaire including self-reported HCV testing and treatment history and underwent point-of-care HCV RNA testing (Xpert® HCV Viral Load Fingerstick). Logistic regression was used to compare the factors associated with self-reported HCV testing and treatment and current HCV infection for men and women who inject drugs. RESULTS Among 2,395 participants enrolled in ETHOS Engage, 66% (n = 1,591) were men, 33% (n = 786) women, and <1% (n = 18) did not identify as a man or woman. HCV testing history and current infection were similar among men and women. Among men or women ever eligible for HCV treatment (ever chronic HCV) (n = 1,242), women were less likely to report a history of HCV treatment compared to men (227/352, 64% vs. 631/890, 71%; p = 0.03). Among women, those aged <45 were less likely to report HCV testing (aOR: 0.57, 95%CI: 0.36, 0.90), treatment (aOR: 0.47, 95%CI: 0.29, 0.77), and more likely to have HCV infection (aOR: 1.48, 95%CI: 1.00, 2.20) CONCLUSION: Among women, those of childbearing age (<45) were less likely to report testing and treatment and were more likely to have current HCV infection. Women <45 years old should be a priority population for HCV care. Services that interface with these women should be optimised to enhance HCV testing and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather Valerio
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Alison D Marshall
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Anna Conway
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Carla Treloar
- Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Lisa Carter
- Hepatitis SA, Hackney, South Australia, Australia
| | - Marianne Martinello
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Janaki Amin
- Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Phillip Read
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; Kirketon Road Centre, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David Silk
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Louisa Degenhardt
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Bianca Prain
- Population Health Strategy & Performance, NSW Health, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Maryam Alavi
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Gregory J Dore
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jason Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Jones AA, Schneider KE, Falade-Nwulia O, Sterner G, Tobin K, Latkin CA. Social Networks, Stigma, and Hepatitis C Care Among Women Who Inject Drugs: Findings from A Community Recruited Sample. J Psychoactive Drugs 2023; 55:464-470. [PMID: 36453686 PMCID: PMC10232671 DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2022.2129886] [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: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
This study explores the role of perceived HCV stigma and social networks on HCV care among people who inject drugs (PWID) of both sexes, and solely among women who inject drugs (WWID). Data were from 269 HCV positive PWID, community-recruited through street-based outreach in Baltimore, MD. We defined HCV stigma based on participants' perceptions of treatment by others and their need to conceal their HCV status. Among WWID, HCV stigma was linked with decreased odds of undergoing liver disease staging (aOR = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.13,0.85) or to have attempted to get the HCV cure (aOR = 0.39, CI: 0.16,0.97), these associations were not evident in the overall sample with both sexes. Social network characteristics were significant correlates of HCV care in the overall sample, and these associations were stronger among WWID. WWID with more HCV positive social network members had higher odds of an HCV-related healthcare visit in the prior 12 months (aOR = 4.28, CI: 1.29,14.17) and to have undergone liver disease staging (aOR = 2.85, CI: 1.01,8.05). WWID with more social network members aware of the HCV cure were more likely to report an attempt at obtaining the HCV cure (aOR = 5.25, CI: 1.85,14.89). Our results suggest complexity in the role of social networks and stigma on HCV care.
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Affiliation(s)
- A A Jones
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Pennsylvania State University, PA, USA
- Consortium on Substance Use and Addiction, the Pennsylvania State University, PA, USA
| | - K E Schneider
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, John Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - O Falade-Nwulia
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, John Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - G Sterner
- Consortium on Substance Use and Addiction, the Pennsylvania State University, PA, USA
- Department of Criminal Justice, Pennsylvania State University, PA, USA
| | - K Tobin
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, John Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - C A Latkin
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, John Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Gonzalez-Nieto P, Salimian A, Arredondo J, Angulo L, García de Loera A, Slim S, Shoptaw S, Cambou MC, Pitpitan EV, Goodman-Meza D. Intersections between syndemic conditions and stages along the continuum of overdose risk among women who inject drugs in Mexicali, Mexico. Harm Reduct J 2023; 20:79. [PMID: 37355611 PMCID: PMC10290314 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-023-00815-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research on women who inject drugs is scarce in low- and middle-income countries. Women experience unique harms such as sexism and sexual violence which translate into negative health outcomes. The present work aims to provide insight into the experiences of women who inject drugs at the US-Mexico border to identify social and health-related risk factors for overdose to guide harm reduction interventions across the Global South. METHODS We recruited 25 women ≥ 18 years of age accessing harm reduction and sexual health services at a non-governmental harm reduction organization, "Verter", in Mexicali, Mexico. We employed purposeful sampling to recruit women who inject drugs who met eligibility criteria. We collected quantitative survey data and in-depth interview data. Analyses of both data sources involved the examination of descriptive statistics and thematic analysis, respectively, and were guided by the syndemic and continuum of overdose risk frameworks. RESULTS Survey data demonstrated reports of initiating injection drug use at a young age, experiencing homelessness, engaging in sex work, being rejected by family members, experiencing physical violence, injecting in public spaces, and experiencing repeated overdose events. Interview data provided evidence of stigma and discrimination toward women, a lack of safe spaces and support systems, risk of overdose-related harms, sexual violence, and the overall need for harm reduction services. CONCLUSION Women who inject drugs in Mexicali describe experiences of violence, overdose, and public injecting. Women are particularly vulnerable in the Mexicali context, as this area faces a noticeable lack of health and social services. Evidenced-based harm reduction strategies such as safe consumption sites and overdose prevention strategies (e.g., naloxone distribution and training) may benefit this population. Evidence from local organizations could help close the gap in service provision in low-resource settings like Mexico, where government action is almost nonexistent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Gonzalez-Nieto
- Integración Social Verter, A.C., Calle José Azueta 230, Primera, 21100, Mexicali, BC, Mexico
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research (CISUR), 2300, McKenzie Ave, Victoria, BC, V8N 5M8, Canada
| | - Anabel Salimian
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 10833, Le Conte Ave, CHS 52-215, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Jaime Arredondo
- Integración Social Verter, A.C., Calle José Azueta 230, Primera, 21100, Mexicali, BC, Mexico
- Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research (CISUR), 2300, McKenzie Ave, Victoria, BC, V8N 5M8, Canada
| | - Lourdes Angulo
- Integración Social Verter, A.C., Calle José Azueta 230, Primera, 21100, Mexicali, BC, Mexico
| | - Alejandra García de Loera
- Universidad Autónoma de Aguascalientes (UAA), Avenida Universidad #940, 20100, Aguascalientes, AGS, Mexico
| | - Said Slim
- Integración Social Verter, A.C., Calle José Azueta 230, Primera, 21100, Mexicali, BC, Mexico
| | - Steve Shoptaw
- Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 10833 Le Conte Ave, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Mary C Cambou
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 10833, Le Conte Ave, CHS 52-215, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Eileen V Pitpitan
- School of Social Work, San Diego State University, Hepner Hall Room 119, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, CA, 92182-4119, USA
| | - David Goodman-Meza
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 10833, Le Conte Ave, CHS 52-215, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
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Lettner B, Mason K, Greenwald ZR, Broad J, Mandel E, Feld JJ, Powis J. Rapid hepatitis C virus point-of-care RNA testing and treatment at an integrated supervised consumption service in Toronto, Canada: a prospective, observational cohort study. LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. AMERICAS 2023; 22:100490. [PMID: 37388709 PMCID: PMC10300568 DOI: 10.1016/j.lana.2023.100490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Background Despite high burden of Hepatitis C (HCV) among people who inject drugs, significant barriers to care persist. The aim of this study was to evaluate the provision of rapid, low-barrier point-of-care (POC) HCV RNA testing and linkage to care among clients of a supervised consumption service (SCS) located within a community health centre in Toronto, Canada. Secondary aims included measuring HCV RNA prevalence at baseline, HCV incidence during follow-up and exploring factors associated with HCV RNA positivity and treatment uptake. Methods Participants were enrolled in a prospective, observational cohort from August 13, 2018 to September 30, 2021. Those with positive HCV RNA tests were offered immediate referral to onsite treatment. Those with negative results were offered repeat testing every three months for up to four visits. HCV incidence was estimated as the number of incident HCV infections per 100 person-years at risk, among those HCV RNA negative at baseline who returned for ≥1 follow-up visit. Missing data were reported when present. Findings 128 participants were enrolled with four later removed due to ineligibility. At baseline, 54 of 124 eligible participants (43.5%) tested HCV RNA positive. HCV incidence was 35.1 cases per 100 person-years (95% CI: 18.9-65.3) with a cumulative incidence of 38.3% at 15 months of follow-up. Among participants HCV RNA positive at baseline or follow-up (n = 64), 67.2% (n = 43) were linked to HCV care and treatment was initiated among 67.4% (n = 29/43). Interpretation High HCV RNA prevalence and incidence demonstrate that the SCS serves a high-risk population for HCV. Testing acceptance was high, as was treatment engagement. POC HCV RNA testing positions SCSs as an important point of HCV care access. Funding HCV Micro-Elimination Grant, Gilead Sciences Canada; in-kind support from Cepheid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernadette Lettner
- South Riverdale Community Health Centre, 955 Queen St E, Toronto, ON, M4M 3P3, Canada
| | - Kate Mason
- South Riverdale Community Health Centre, 955 Queen St E, Toronto, ON, M4M 3P3, Canada
| | - Zoë R. Greenwald
- Division of Epidemiology, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College St, Toronto, ON M5T 3M7, Canada
- Centre on Drug Policy Evaluation, MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, St. Michael's Hospital, 30 Bond Street, Toronto, ON M5B 1X1, Canada
| | - Jennifer Broad
- South Riverdale Community Health Centre, 955 Queen St E, Toronto, ON, M4M 3P3, Canada
| | - Erin Mandel
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto General Hospital, 200 Elizabeth St, Toronto, ON, M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Jordan J. Feld
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto General Hospital, 200 Elizabeth St, Toronto, ON, M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Jeff Powis
- Michael Garron Hospital, 825 Coxwell Ave, Toronto, ON, M4C 3E7, Canada
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Artenie A, Stone J, Fraser H, Stewart D, Arum C, Lim AG, McNaughton AL, Trickey A, Ward Z, Abramovitz D, Alary M, Astemborski J, Bruneau J, Clipman SJ, Coffin CS, Croxford S, DeBeck K, Emanuel E, Hayashi K, Hermez JG, Low-Beer D, Luhmann N, Macphail G, Maher L, Palmateer NE, Patel EU, Sacks-Davis R, Van Den Boom W, van Santen DK, Walker JG, Hickman M, Vickerman P. Incidence of HIV and hepatitis C virus among people who inject drugs, and associations with age and sex or gender: a global systematic review and meta-analysis. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 8:533-552. [PMID: 36996853 PMCID: PMC10817215 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(23)00018-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Measuring the incidence of HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection among people who inject drugs (PWID) is key to track progress towards elimination. We aimed to summarise global data on HIV and primary HCV incidence among PWID and associations with age and sex or gender. METHODS In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we updated an existing database of HIV and HCV incidence studies among PWID by searching MEDLINE, Embase, and PsycINFO, capturing studies published between Jan 1, 2000, and Dec 12, 2022, with no language or study design restrictions. We contacted authors of identified studies for unpublished or updated data. We included studies that estimated incidence by longitudinally re-testing people at risk of infection or by using assays for recent infection. We pooled incidence and relative risk (RR; young [generally defined as ≤25 years] vs older PWID; women vs men) estimates using random-effects meta-analysis and assessed risk of bias with a modified Newcastle-Ottawa scale. This study is registered with PROSPERO, CRD42020220884. FINDINGS Our updated search identified 9493 publications, of which 211 were eligible for full-text review. An additional 377 full-text records from our existing database and five records identified through cross-referencing were assessed. Including 28 unpublished records, 125 records met the inclusion criteria. We identified 64 estimates of HIV incidence (30 from high-income countries [HICs] and 34 from low-income or middle-income countries [LMICs]) and 66 estimates of HCV incidence (52 from HICs and 14 from LMICs). 41 (64%) of 64 HIV and 42 (64%) of 66 HCV estimates were from single cities rather than being multi-city or nationwide. Estimates were measured over 1987-2021 for HIV and 1992-2021 for HCV. Pooled HIV incidence was 1·7 per 100 person-years (95% CI 1·3-2·3; I2=98·4%) and pooled HCV incidence was 12·1 per 100 person-years (10·0-14·6; I2=97·2%). Young PWID had a greater risk of HIV (RR 1·5, 95% CI 1·2-1·8; I2=66·9%) and HCV (1·5, 1·3-1·8; I2=70·6%) acquisition than older PWID. Women had a greater risk of HIV (RR 1·4, 95% CI 1·1-1·6; I2=55·3%) and HCV (1·2, 1·1-1·3; I2=43·3%) acquisition than men. For both HIV and HCV, the median risk-of-bias score was 6 (IQR 6-7), indicating moderate risk. INTERPRETATION Although sparse, available HIV and HCV incidence estimates offer insights into global levels of HIV and HCV transmission among PWID. Intensified efforts are needed to keep track of the HIV and HCV epidemics among PWID and to expand access to age-appropriate and gender-appropriate prevention services that serve young PWID and women who inject drugs. FUNDING Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Fonds de recherche du Québec-Santé, Canadian Network on Hepatitis C, UK National Institute for Health and Care Research, and WHO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adelina Artenie
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
| | - Jack Stone
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Hannah Fraser
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Daniel Stewart
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; National Public Health Speciality Training Programme, South West, Bristol, UK
| | - Chiedozie Arum
- Yale School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Aaron G Lim
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Anna L McNaughton
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Adam Trickey
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Zoe Ward
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Michel Alary
- Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada; Département de médecine sociale et préventive, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, Canada; Institut national de santé publique du Québec, Québec City, QC, Canada
| | - Jacquie Astemborski
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Julie Bruneau
- Département de Médecine Familiale et Médecine d'Urgence, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada; Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal Research Center, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Steven J Clipman
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Carla S Coffin
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Sara Croxford
- Public Health and Clinical Directorate, UK Health Security Agency, London, UK
| | - Kora DeBeck
- School of Public Policy, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, BC, Canada; BC Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Eva Emanuel
- Blood Safety, Hepatitis, STI and HIV Division, UK Health Security Agency, London, UK
| | - Kanna Hayashi
- BC Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Joumana G Hermez
- Department of Communicable Diseases, World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Daniel Low-Beer
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Niklas Luhmann
- Global HIV, Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections Programmes, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Gisela Macphail
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada; Infectious Diseases, CUPS Liver Clinic, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Lisa Maher
- Kirby Institute for Infection and Immunity, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Norah E Palmateer
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK; Public Health Scotland, Glasgow, UK
| | - Eshan U Patel
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Rachel Sacks-Davis
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Daniela K van Santen
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Josephine G Walker
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Matthew Hickman
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Peter Vickerman
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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Kåberg M, Larsson S, Bergström J, Hammarberg A. Quality-adjusted life years among people who inject drugs in a needle syringe program in Sweden. Qual Life Res 2023; 32:197-207. [PMID: 35996040 PMCID: PMC9829569 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-022-03209-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Needle syringe programs (NSP) significantly reduce risk behavior and HIV and hepatitis transmission in people who inject drugs (PWID). However, PWID are underrepresented in studies on health-related quality of life (HRQoL), representing a barrier to evaluate effects of public health and preventive measures related to injecting drug use. In this study, we investigate how well the two questionnaires EQ-5D-3L and SF-6D measure health in PWID. We also estimate HRQoL in the PWID population. METHOD Data on demographics, injection drug use, HIV, hepatitis status, and self-reported HRQoL were collected from 550 PWID enrolled in the Stockholm NSP at enrollment and at 6-, 12-, and 24-month follow-up. Self-rated HRQoL was measured as QALY, using EQ-5D-3L and the SF-6D. Item response theory (IRT) was used to evaluate which of the two instruments that measure health most accurately in this population. Regression analysis was used to estimate population-specific QALYs. RESULTS The IRT analysis showed that SF-6D was better suited to measure health in PWID. More specifically, SF-6D to a larger extent discriminated between persons regardless of their health status, while EQ-5D was more suitable to detect persons with poorer health. Self-rated HRQoL showed that average QALY was lower among PWID compared to the general Swedish population. However, a general increase in self-reported health was noted over time among participants. CONCLUSION This study increase knowledge of what instruments are most suitable to measure health among PWID. This is of great importance when evaluating effects of public health and preventive measures in the PWID population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Kåberg
- grid.4714.60000 0004 1937 0626Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden ,Stockholm Centre for Dependency Disorders, Stockholm Needle Exchange, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sofie Larsson
- grid.419734.c0000 0000 9580 3113Department of Public Health Analysis and Data Management, Public Health Agency of Sweden, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jakob Bergström
- grid.419734.c0000 0000 9580 3113Department of Public Health Analysis and Data Management, Public Health Agency of Sweden, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anders Hammarberg
- grid.4714.60000 0004 1937 0626Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden ,grid.467087.a0000 0004 0442 1056Stockholm Centre for Dependency Disorders, Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
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7
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Huang G, Cheng W, Xu Y, Yang J, Jiang J, Pan X, Zhou X, Jiang J, Chai C. Development and Validation of a Risk Prediction Tool to Identify People at Greater Risk of Having Hepatitis C among Drug Users. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:15677. [PMID: 36497751 PMCID: PMC9738321 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192315677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who use drugs (PWUD) are among those with the highest risk for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Highly effective direct-acting antiviral agents offer an opportunity to eliminate HCV. A simple tool for the prediction of HCV infection risk in PWUD is urgently needed. This study aimed to develop and validate a risk prediction tool to identify people at greater risk of having hepatitis C among PWUD that is applicable in resource-limited settings. METHODS We extracted data from national HIV/AIDS sentinel surveillance in PWUD (Zhejiang Province, 2016-2021) and developed and validated a risk score to improve HCV testing in PWUD. This risk score consists of seven risk factors identified using multivariable logistic regression modeling (2016-2020, exploratory group). We validated this score using surveillance data for 2021 (validation group). The accuracy of the model was determined using C-statistics. RESULTS We identified seven risk factors, including sex, age, marital status, educational attainment, and the use of heroin, morphine, and methamphetamine. In the exploratory group, the positive rates of detecting the HCV antibody in the low-risk (0-9 points), intermediate-risk (10-16 points), and high-risk (≥17 points) groups were 6.72%, 17.24%, and 38.02%, respectively (Ptrend < 0.001). In the validation group, the positive rates in the low-, medium-, and high-risk groups were 4.46%, 12.23%, and 38.99%, respectively (Ptrend < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS We developed and validated a drug-specific risk prediction tool for identifying PWUD at increased risk of HCV infection. This tool can complement and integrate the screening strategy for the purpose of early diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Huang
- Medical School of Ningbo University, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Wei Cheng
- Department of AIDS and STDs Prevention and Control, Zhejiang Province Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou 310051, China
| | - Yun Xu
- Department of AIDS and STDs Prevention and Control, Zhejiang Province Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou 310051, China
| | - Jiezhe Yang
- Department of AIDS and STDs Prevention and Control, Zhejiang Province Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou 310051, China
| | - Jun Jiang
- Department of AIDS and STDs Prevention and Control, Zhejiang Province Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou 310051, China
| | - Xiaohong Pan
- Department of AIDS and STDs Prevention and Control, Zhejiang Province Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou 310051, China
| | - Xin Zhou
- Department of AIDS and STDs Prevention and Control, Zhejiang Province Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou 310051, China
| | - Jianmin Jiang
- Department of AIDS and STDs Prevention and Control, Zhejiang Province Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou 310051, China
- Key Lab of Vaccine, Prevention and Control of Infectious Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310051, China
| | - Chengliang Chai
- Department of AIDS and STDs Prevention and Control, Zhejiang Province Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou 310051, China
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8
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Chen Y, Shen X, Liang H, Li G, Han K, Liang C, Hao Z. Relationship between hepatitis C and kidney stone in US females: Results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey in 2007–2018. Front Public Health 2022; 10:940905. [PMID: 35991057 PMCID: PMC9389117 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.940905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The main objective of this study is to explore the effects of hepatitis C (HCV) on the prevalence rate of kidney stones in US women. Method Dates for HCV infection and kidney stones were collected from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database, a cross-sectional study. The analysis samples included adults aged ≥20 years and women from six consecutive cycles of the NHANES 2007–2018. The association between HCV infection and kidney stones was performed by using logistic regression models. Subgroup analyses were conducted to find sensitive crowds. Results A total of 13,262 participants were enrolled, including 201 infected with HCV. After adjustment for potential confounders, we revealed a positive relationship between HCV and kidney stones (OR = 1.70, 95%CI:1.13–2.56). The crowds' statistically significant difference was characterized by other races (OR = 8.17, 95%CI:1.62–41.22) and BMI within 25–29.9 kg/m2 (OR = 2.45, 95%CI:1.24–4.83). Conclusions HCV infection may affect the prevalence of urolithiasis in US women, even the causal relationship remains unclear, the relation deserves special attention. We considered such a study an ideal way to begin exploring the effects of HCV on kidney stones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Chen
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Genitourinary Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xudong Shen
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Genitourinary Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Hu Liang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Genitourinary Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Guoxiang Li
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Genitourinary Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Kexing Han
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Chaozhao Liang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Genitourinary Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- *Correspondence: Chaozhao Liang
| | - Zongyao Hao
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Genitourinary Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Zongyao Hao
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9
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Ozga JE, Syvertsen JL, Pollini RA. Hepatitis C antibody prevalence, correlates and barriers to care among people who inject drugs in Central California. J Viral Hepat 2022; 29:518-528. [PMID: 35357738 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C (HCV) infection among people who inject drugs (PWID) is a major public health concern. We examined correlates of HCV antibody (anti-HCV) seropositivity and characteristics of prior HCV testing and treatment among PWID in Fresno, California, which has among the highest prevalence of injection drug use (IDU) in the United States. We surveyed 494 peer-recruited PWID (≥18 years of age) in 2016 about their experiences with HCV testing and treatment, and conducted HCV and HIV antibody testing for all participants. Bivariate analyses and multivariable logistic regressions were used to identify correlates of anti-HCV seropositivity. A majority (65%) tested positive for anti-HCV, with 32% of those being unaware of their HCV status. Anti-HCV seroprevalence was independently and positively associated with older age (AOR = 1.11 per year, 95% CI = 1.06, 1.17), years injecting (AOR = 1.08 per year, 95% CI = 1.03, 1.13), distributive syringe sharing (AOR = 2.76, 95% CI = 1.29, 5.94), having syringes confiscated by police (AOR = 2.65, 95% CI = 1.22, 5.74), ever trading sex (AOR = 3.51, 95% CI = 1.40, 8.81) and negatively associated with being Black/African American (non-Hispanic) (AOR = 0.06, 95% CI = 0.01, 0.47). Prior HCV testing was associated with older age, ever getting syringes from a syringe services program, and having interactions with police. For those aware of their anti-HCV seropositivity, only 11% had initiated treatment; reasons for not seeing a physician regarding diagnosis included not feeling sick (23%), currently using drugs/alcohol (19%) and not knowing where to go for HCV medical care (19%). Our findings highlight the importance of expanding community-based access to sterile syringes alongside HCV testing and treatment services, particularly at syringe service programs where PWID may be more comfortable seeking testing and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny E Ozga
- Department of Behavioral Medicine & Psychiatry, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
| | - Jennifer L Syvertsen
- Department of Anthropology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, California, USA
| | - Robin A Pollini
- Department of Behavioral Medicine & Psychiatry, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA.,Department of Epidemiology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA.,Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation, Calverton, Maryland, USA
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10
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Larney S, Madden A, Marshall AD, Martin NK, Treloar C. A gender lens is needed in hepatitis C elimination research. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2022; 103:103654. [PMID: 35306279 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2022.103654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The World Health Organisation has established a goal of eliminating the hepatitis C virus (HCV) as a public health threat by 2030. Considerable effort is being directed towards research to support and enhance HCV treatment uptake among people who inject drugs, but there is a distinct lack of attention given to gender in this work. We argue that a gender lens is needed to make visible the limitations of current HCV elimination research, and support the development of innovative, inclusive approaches to HCV treatment. Partnerships between researchers and people who inject drugs are essential in this work, particularly in the development and evaluation of programs by and for women who inject drugs. Failure to acknowledge the gendered dimensions of HCV elimination risks entrenching gender disparities in access to treatment and cure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Larney
- Department of Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine, University of Montreal, Canada; Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Canada.
| | - Annie Madden
- The Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Alison D Marshall
- The Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia; The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Australia
| | - Natasha K Martin
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, University of California San Diego, USA; School of Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, UK
| | - Carla Treloar
- The Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia; Social Policy Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Australia
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11
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de Brito RJVC, da Silva LF, Santos MB, de Moura PMMF, de Souza CDF, do Carmo RF. A time series analysis of detection and mortality of hepatitis C in Brazil, 2008–2018. BMC Infect Dis 2022; 22:81. [PMID: 35073878 PMCID: PMC8785020 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-022-07063-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The 69th World Health Assembly approved the Global Health Sector Strategy to eliminate hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection by 2030. In Brazil, efforts have been undertaken to achieve this goal; there are, however, great challenges. It is important to understand the disease profile in different regions of the country in order to design strategies to fight the disease nationwide. The objective of this study was to analyse the time trend of the incidence and mortality of hepatitis C in Brazil during the period from 2008 to 2018 according to sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. Methods All newly diagnosed cases of hepatitis C reported between 2008 and 2018, in all regions of Brazil, were included. The indicators were obtained from the databases of the Brazilian Ministry of Health. For the time series analysis, a joinpoint regression model was used. Results Between 2008 and 2018, 136,759 newly diagnosed cases of hepatitis C were reported considering anti-HCV and HCV RNA positivity, and 271,624 newly diagnosed cases were reported considering one or another positive test. The majority of the records were concentrated in the Southeast (61%) and South (26.2%) Regions. The joinpoint regression model indicated an increasing trend in the detection rate of hepatitis C in Brazil, but there was a decreasing trend in the mortality rate during the period analysed. Conclusions Differences were observed in the time trend of hepatitis C and in the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics in different regions of Brazil. These data can provide support to design strategies for the elimination of hepatitis C in Brazil, according to regional particularities.
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12
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Damas J, Storm M, Pandey LR, Marrone G, Deuba K. Prevalence of HIV, Hepatitis C and its related risk behaviours among women who inject drugs in the Kathmandu Valley, Nepal: a cross-sectional study. Ther Adv Infect Dis 2021; 8:20499361211062107. [PMID: 34881024 PMCID: PMC8646840 DOI: 10.1177/20499361211062107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: People who inject drugs (PWID) are at great risk of HIV and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV). In order to properly design interventions and develop programmes for women who inject drugs, this study assessed the prevalence of HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and syphilis and its risk behaviours among women who inject drugs in the Kathmandu Valley, Nepal. Methods: Through modified network sampling in three districts in the Kathmandu Valley, Nepal, this cross-sectional study enrolled a total of 160 women who inject drugs. Participants’ serum samples were tested for HIV, HCV, Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and syphilis and risk behaviours were assessed through a structured questionnaire. Primary outcome variables were HIV, HCV, HBV and syphilis prevalence, and secondary outcome variables were sharing needles in the past month and using condom in last sexual intercourse. Stepwise logistic regression was used to determine micro- and macroenvironmental factors associated with secondary outcomes. Results: The prevalence of HIV, HCV, and HBV was 8.8%, 21.3%, and 1.9%, respectively. HIV-HCV co-infection rate was 5.6%. Fifteen percent of women who inject drugs reported transactional sex for drugs or money. One in four women who inject drugs (27.5%) reported that they were imprisoned or detained for drug related reasons. In multivariable analysis, women living with HIV who inject drugs were almost four times more likely to use a previously used needle/syringe than women who inject drugs who were HIV negative (aOR: 4.2 CI: 1.1-15.9, p = 0.03), but were almost four times more likely to use a condom during sexual intercourse (aOR: 3.5 CI: 1.1-28.9, p = 0.03). Enrolment in family planning was the main determinant for using condoms in last sexual intercourse (aOR 4.9 CI: 1.6-16.7, p = 0.006). Participants with access to HIV test and counselling (HTC) services were less likely to share needles (aOR: 0.3, 95% CI: 0.1–0.8, p = 0.01). Conclusion: Prevalence of HIV and HCV is high among women who inject drugs in Kathmandu valley of Nepal. Women who inject drugs enrolled in national programmes such as family planning and HTC were positively associated with condom use, and less likely to share needles.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Damas
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Margrethe Storm
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lok Raj Pandey
- National Centre for AIDS and STD Control, Ministry of Health and Population, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Gaetano Marrone
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Keshab Deuba
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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13
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Felsher M, Tobin KE, Sulkowski M, Latkin C, Falade-Nwulia O. HCV communication within ego-centric networks of men and women who inject drugs. Drug Alcohol Depend 2021; 229:109157. [PMID: 34740020 PMCID: PMC8665146 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.109157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Leveraging interpersonal communication among social networks of people who inject drugs (PWID) may be an innovative strategy to increase awareness and access to hepatitis C (HCV) care. However, little is known about HCV communication patterns among PWID and if these patterns vary by gender. METHODS Egocentric network data collected at baseline from HCV-infected PWID enrolled in a randomized HCV treatment intervention trial in Baltimore, Maryland were analyzed. Logistic generalized estimating models were conducted to identify predictors of HCV communication. RESULTS Among 227 PWID, the mean age was 43.8 (SD=10.3), 28.2% (n = 64) were women and 71.8% (n = 163) were men. Female participants reported 516 dyadic relationships and male participants 1139 dyadic relationships. While there were significant gender differences based on socio-demographics, risk behavior and network composition, there were few differences in HCV communication patterns. Both men and women had increased odds of HCV communication with alters who are currently enrolled in drug treatment (AOR 1.7, 95% CI: 1.3-2.4), alters with whom participants share drug preparation equipment (AOR 3.0, 95% CI: 1.9-4.6), alters who are sex partners compared to kin (AOR 3.0; 95% CI: 1.9-4.9) and alters with whom respondents have increased trust (AOR 1.1; 95% CI: 1.11.2) and daily/weekly interactions (AOR 1.7; 95% CI 1.3-2.1). CONCLUSION PWID engaged with trusted alters about HCV disclosure and information, highlighting the important role network interventions could play in this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisa Felsher
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, 5200 Eastern Avenue, MFL Center Tower, Suite 381, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA.
| | - Karin E Tobin
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Mark Sulkowski
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, 5200 Eastern Avenue, MFL Center Tower, Suite 381, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Carl Latkin
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Oluwaseun Falade-Nwulia
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, 5200 Eastern Avenue, MFL Center Tower, Suite 381, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
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14
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Fortier E, Høj SB, Sylvestre MP, Artenie AA, Minoyan N, Jutras-Aswad D, Grebely J, Bruneau J. Injecting frequency trajectories and hepatitis C virus acquisition: Findings from a cohort of people who inject drugs in Montréal, Canada. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2021; 96:103439. [PMID: 34518099 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2021.103439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Frequent injecting increases hepatitis C (HCV) acquisition risk among people who inject drugs (PWID). However, few studies have examined how temporal fluctuations in injecting frequency may effect HCV infection risk. Thus, this study examined HCV incidence according to injecting frequency trajectories followed by PWID over one year in Montréal, Canada. METHODS At three-month intervals from March 2011 to June 2016, HCV-uninfected PWID (never infected or cleared infection) enrolled in the Hepatitis Cohort (HEPCO) completed interviewer-administered questionnaires and HCV testing. At each visit, participants reported the number of injecting days (0-30 days) for each of the past three months. In previous work, using group-based trajectory modeling, we identified five injecting frequency trajectories followed by participants over one year (months 1-12 of follow-up), including sporadic, infrequent, increasing, decreasing, and frequent injecting. In this study, we estimated group-specific HCV incidence (months 1-63 of follow-up) using posterior probabilities to assign participants to their most likely trajectory group. RESULTS Of 386 participants (mean age=40, 82% male, 48% never HCV-infected), 72 acquired HCV during 893 person-years of follow-up. HCV incidence for the whole study sample was 8.1 per 100 person-years (95%CI=6.4-10.1). Trajectory group-specific HCV incidences were highest for those injecting drugs with decreasing (23.9, 14.4-37.5) or increasing frequency (16.0, 10.1-24.3), intermediate for those injecting at consistently high frequency (10.2, 5.4-17.8), and lowest for those injecting infrequently (3.9, 2.2-6.5) or sporadically (4.3, 2.2-7.6). CONCLUSION Results suggest that PWID at highest HCV risk are those injecting at high frequency, either transitorily (increasing, decreasing injecting) or consistently (frequent injecting). This study highlights changes in injecting frequency as a potentially important dimension to consider among the factors leading to HCV acquisition. Clinical and public health interventions tailored to PWID with different injecting frequency profiles may contribute to HCV prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Fortier
- CHUM Research Centre, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada; Department of Family and Emergency Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Stine Bordier Høj
- CHUM Research Centre, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Marie-Pierre Sylvestre
- CHUM Research Centre, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada; Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Andreea Adelina Artenie
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Nanor Minoyan
- CHUM Research Centre, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada; Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Didier Jutras-Aswad
- CHUM Research Centre, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada; Department of Psychiatry and Addiction, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Jason Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Julie Bruneau
- CHUM Research Centre, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada; Department of Family and Emergency Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.
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15
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Rana R, Dangal R, Singh Y, Gurung RB, Rai B, Sharma AK. Hepatitis C Virus Infection in Pregnancy and Children: Its Implications and Treatment Considerations with Directly Acting Antivirals: A Review. JNMA J Nepal Med Assoc 2021; 59:942-953. [PMID: 35199739 PMCID: PMC9107891 DOI: 10.31729/jnma.5501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus infection (HCV) is a global health problem affecting >71 million people worldwide with chronic hepatitis C, 40% reproductive age group, and 8% pregnant women. Intravenous drug abuse, multi-transfusions are major risk factors in adults, while vertical transmission in pediatric population. It commonly presents as a chronic liver disease, has higher risk of liver cirrhosis and even progression to hepatocellular carcinoma. Therefore, proper screening of high-risk populations including pregnancy is recommended. All diagnosed chronic hepatitis C cases should be treated with directly acting anti-virals (DAAs) including pre-conception which has a cure rate of >95%. This would reduce the disease burden, vertical transmission, and disability associated. However, no DAAs regimens recommendation till date due to lack of evidence on adverse fetal outcomes and are concerned about the pharmacokinetic effect regarding physiological changes during pregnancy. Therefore, in this review, we have tried to explore the possible use of DAAs regimens and their safety issues during pregnancy, and possible consideration of few pan-genotypic regimens in the late 2nd and early 3rd trimester. This would not only prevent vertical transmission and decrease disease burden but also help to meet the WHO 2030 target of HCV elimination as a major public health problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramesh Rana
- Department of Medicine, Ungoofaaru Regional Hospital, Ungoofaaru, RAA Atoll, Maldives
- Department of Medicine, Laligurash Hospital, Talchhikhel-14, Lalitpur, Nepal
| | - Rajkumar Dangal
- Dolakha Hospital, Kathmandu University-affiliated Hospital, Dolakha, Nepal
| | - Yogendra Singh
- Department of Medicine, Laligurash Hospital, Talchhikhel-14, Lalitpur, Nepal
| | - Ram Bahadur Gurung
- Department of Medicine and Gastroenterology & Endoscopy Unit Endoscopy Training Center, Dhulikhel Hospital, Kathmandu University School of Medicine, Dhulikhel, Nepal
| | - Bhim Rai
- West Mersea GP Practice, Mersea Island, Colchester, UK
| | - Amit Kumar Sharma
- Department of Medicine, Laligurash Hospital, Talchhikhel-14, Lalitpur, Nepal
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16
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Minoyan N, Høj SB, Jutras-Aswad D, Vlad D, Martel-Laferrière V, Sylvestre MP, Bruneau J. Gender-specific associations between psychological distress and injecting risk behaviours among people who inject drugs in Montreal, Canada. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2021; 96:103319. [PMID: 34154905 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2021.103319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Revised: 05/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychological distress is common among people who inject drugs (PWID) and may be associated with HCV-related risk behaviours. Previous studies have documented increased vulnerability to both psychological distress and HCV infection among female relative to male PWID. It is, however, unclear whether behavioural responses to distress differ by gender. This study estimated gender-specific associations between psychological distress and i) binge drug injection, and ii) sharing of injection materials. METHODS Data were drawn from HEPCO, a longitudinal cohort study involving three-monthly interviews with active PWID in Montreal, Canada. Past-month psychological distress was assessed with the Kessler (K10) scale, categorized for descriptive analyses as minimal (score 10-15), moderate (16-21), high (22-29), or severe (30-50). Binge was defined as injecting large quantities of drugs until participants could no longer continue (past 3 months). Sharing was defined as injection with previously-used needles or equipment (past 3 months). Generalized additive models were fit to estimate smooth, nonlinear associations between K10 scores and risk behaviours, by gender. Models were adjusted for known determinants of drug-related harms and included random intercepts to model within-subject correlation. RESULTS 805 individuals (82% male) provided 8158 observations (2011-2020). High to severe levels of distress were common and more frequent among women (55% vs 37%). Among men, the odds of binge and sharing monotonically and non-linearly increased with increasing scores of psychological distress. Associations for binge among women were attenuated relative to men but nevertheless increased with distress, albeit in a linear fashion. Sharing was not associated with distress among women. CONCLUSION Psychological distress was differentially associated with injecting risk behaviours among men and women who inject drugs. Assessment of distress may provide novel prevention opportunities for select PWID. Further investigation into gender differences is warranted to inform development and tailoring of interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanor Minoyan
- Université de Montréal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM), 900 Rue Saint Denis, Montréal (Québec), Canada H2X 0A9; Department of social and preventive medicine, École de Santé Publique, Université de Montréal. 7101 Ave Parc, Montréal (Québec), Canada H3N 1X9
| | - Stine Bordier Høj
- Université de Montréal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM), 900 Rue Saint Denis, Montréal (Québec), Canada H2X 0A9
| | - Didier Jutras-Aswad
- Université de Montréal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM), 900 Rue Saint Denis, Montréal (Québec), Canada H2X 0A9; Department of Psychiatry and Addiction, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montreal. 2900 boul. Édouard-Montpetit, Montréal (Québec), Canada H3C 3J7
| | - Dragos Vlad
- Université de Montréal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM), 900 Rue Saint Denis, Montréal (Québec), Canada H2X 0A9; Department of social and preventive medicine, École de Santé Publique, Université de Montréal. 7101 Ave Parc, Montréal (Québec), Canada H3N 1X9
| | - Valérie Martel-Laferrière
- Université de Montréal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM), 900 Rue Saint Denis, Montréal (Québec), Canada H2X 0A9; Department of microbiology, infectiology and immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal. 2900 boul. Édouard-Montpetit, Montréal (Québec), Canada H3C 3J7
| | - Marie-Pierre Sylvestre
- Université de Montréal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM), 900 Rue Saint Denis, Montréal (Québec), Canada H2X 0A9; Department of social and preventive medicine, École de Santé Publique, Université de Montréal. 7101 Ave Parc, Montréal (Québec), Canada H3N 1X9
| | - Julie Bruneau
- Université de Montréal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM), 900 Rue Saint Denis, Montréal (Québec), Canada H2X 0A9; Department of Family and Emergency Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal. 2900 boul. Édouard-Montpetit, Montréal (Québec), Canada H3C 3J7.
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17
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Watts T, Lauver D, Snedden T, Zahner S. Risks for acquiring hepatitis C virus among women in the United States. Public Health Nurs 2021; 38:309-320. [PMID: 33749074 DOI: 10.1111/phn.12892] [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: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To conduct a literature review about the breadth of risks for acquiring hepatitis C virus (HCV) among women who are living in the United States. DESIGN A mixed research synthesis of qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods studies guided by the Socioecological Model and Theory of Gender and Power. SAMPLE AND ANALYTIC STRATEGY The sample consisted of 29 studies: 10 qualitative, 18 quantitative, and one mixed-methods studies. Data were analyzed using a segregated approach and integrated into a narrative synthesis of themes by components of the Socioecological Model. RESULTS Individual risks themes were drug use as a coping strategy, transition to injection drug use, and lack of awareness about HCV. Interpersonal risks themes were social norms of drug use and drug use and sexual activities. Community risks themes were community re-entry, housing instability, and community HCV resources. Societal risks themes are policies affecting drug markets and social construct of "worthlessness." CONCLUSIONS Findings highlight the need for comprehensive gender-specific HCV prevention strategies built around harm reduction. In partnership with women with lived experience, public health nurses can apply findings to build harm reduction collaborations aimed at implementing HCV risk-reduction or risk-elimination strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Watts
- Orvis School of Nursing, University of Nevada-Reno, Reno, NE, USA
| | - Diane Lauver
- School of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Traci Snedden
- School of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Susan Zahner
- School of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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Hodder SL, Feinberg J, Strathdee SA, Shoptaw S, Altice FL, Ortenzio L, Beyrer C. The opioid crisis and HIV in the USA: deadly synergies. Lancet 2021; 397:1139-1150. [PMID: 33617769 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(21)00391-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The opioid epidemic is one of the greatest public health problems that the USA faces. Opioid overdose death rates have increased steadily for more than a decade and doubled in 2013-17, as the highly potent synthetic opioid fentanyl entered the drug supply. Demographics of new HIV diagnoses among people who inject drugs are also changing, with more new HIV diagnoses occurring among White people, young people (aged 13-34 years), and people who reside outside large central metropolitan areas. Racial differences also exist in syringe sharing, which decreased among Black people and Hispanic people but remained unchanged among White people in 2005-15. Recent HIV outbreaks have occurred in rural areas of the USA, as well as among marginalised people in urban areas with robust HIV prevention and treatment services (eg, Seattle, WA). Multiple evidence-based interventions can effectively treat opioid use disorder and prevent HIV acquisition. However, considerable barriers exist precluding delivery of these solutions to many people who inject drugs. If the USA is serious about HIV prevention among this group, stigma must be eliminated, discriminatory policies must change, and comprehensive health care must be accessible to all. Finally, root causes of the opioid epidemic such as hopelessness need to be identified and addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally L Hodder
- West Virginia Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University Health Sciences Center, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA.
| | - Judith Feinberg
- West Virginia Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University Health Sciences Center, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Chris Beyrer
- Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Schulte B, Schmidt CS, Strada L, Rosenkranz M, Schäfer I, Verthein U, Reimer J. Hepatitis C Virus Prevalence and Incidence in a Large Nationwide Sample of Patients in Opioid Substitution Treatment in Germany: A Prospective Cohort Study. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 70:2199-2205. [PMID: 31631215 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciz661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is highly prevalent among people who inject drugs (PWID). Accurate data on HCV prevalence and incidence rates among patients receiving opioid substitution treatment (OST) are needed to estimate the current and future burden of HCV infections in this high-risk population. METHODS Baseline data from routine care were collected between October 2014 and June 2016 from randomly selected OST facilities in Germany. The primary outcome measure was the HCV status (antibody and RNA prevalence). Patients who were HCV antibody-negative at baseline were followed up after 12 months to calculate the HCV incidence rate. RESULTS Sixty-three facilities from 14 German Federal States provided clinical data for a total of 2466 OST patients. HCV antibody and HCV RNA prevalence were 58.8% (95% confidence interval [CI], 56.8%-60.8%) and 27.3% (95% CI, 25.5%-29.2%), respectively. At baseline, a total of 528 patients (21.4%) had previously undergone antiviral treatment. Moreover, lower HCV RNA prevalence was associated with female gender, employment, younger age, and shorter duration of OST and opioid dependence. The HCV incidence rate was 2.5 cases per 100 person-years. CONCLUSIONS The low HCV RNA prevalence and HCV incidence rates confirm that OST in Germany is an effective setting both for treating chronic HCV infections and for preventing new infections among PWID. Scaling up the provision of OST, HCV testing, and HCV treatment among OST patients are important public health strategies for reducing HCV infections in this high-risk population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernd Schulte
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Addiction Research, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf
| | | | - Lisa Strada
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Addiction Research, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf
| | - Moritz Rosenkranz
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Addiction Research, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf
| | - Ingo Schäfer
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Addiction Research, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf
| | - Uwe Verthein
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Addiction Research, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf
| | - Jens Reimer
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Addiction Research, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf.,Gesundheit Nord, Bremen, Germany
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20
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Karlsson N, Kåberg M, Berglund T, Hammarberg A, Widman L, Ekström AM. A prospective cohort study of risk behaviours, retention and loss to follow-up over 5 years among women and men in a needle exchange program in Stockholm, Sweden. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2020; 90:103059. [PMID: 33360734 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2020.103059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Needle exchange programs (NEP) are important in reducing risk behaviours among people who inject drugs (PWID), also exposed to HIV and hepatitis C (HCV) through injecting drug use (IDU). Women (WWID) compared to men who inject drugs (MWID), are particularly vulnerable with complex needs, however less is known about their risk determinants and NEP outcomes. METHODS In an open prospective NEP cohort, 697 WWID and 2122 MWID were followed, 2013-2018. Self-reported socio/drug-related determinants for receptive injection (needle/syringe and paraphernalia) and sexual risk behaviours at enrolment, lost to follow-up (LTFU) and probability of retention, were assessed for both groups. Multivariable logistic regression (adjusted odds ratios, aOR) for enrolment and Poisson regression (adjusted incidence rate ratios, aIRR) for LTFU, were used. Cumulative NEP-retention probability was analysed using a six- and 12-month scenario. RESULTS At NEP enrolment, injection risk behaviours among WWID were associated with: younger age; homelessness; amphetamine-IDU; non-participation in opioid substitution therapy (OST); history of custody and among MWID: lower education level; cohabitation; homelessness, being a tenant; amphetamine-IDU; non-participation in OST; history of being sectioned, HIV-negative and HCV-positive. Condomless sex among WWID was associated with: younger age; lower education-level; cohabitation; having a partner; amphetamine-IDU; non-participation in OST; being HIV-negative and HCV-positive and among MWID: younger age; married; cohabitation; having a partner; amphetamine-IDU; non-participation in OST; history of custody, prison and being HIV-negative. WWID had higher NEP-retention levels compared to MWID over time. Being LTFU among WWID was associated with being HIV-negative and reporting injection risk behaviours and among MWID, younger age, non-participation in OST, being HIV-negative and having protected sex. CONCLUSIONS Despite better NEP compliance among WWID, high injection and sexual risk behaviours in both gender-subgroups, especially in intimate relationships, suggests ongoing HCV and HIV-infection risks. Subgroup-variation in the NEP continuum of care warrants more gender-disaggregated research and tailoring gender-sensitive services may improve prevention, health and retention outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niklas Karlsson
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Public Health Analysis and Development, Public Health Agency of Sweden (Folkhälsomyndigheten), Solna, Sweden.
| | - Martin Kåberg
- Department of Medicine Huddinge, Division of Infection and Dermatology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden; Stockholm Needle Exchange, Stockholm Centre for Dependency Disorders, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Torsten Berglund
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Public Health Analysis and Development, Public Health Agency of Sweden (Folkhälsomyndigheten), Solna, Sweden
| | - Anders Hammarberg
- Stockholm Needle Exchange, Stockholm Centre for Dependency Disorders, Stockholm, Sweden; Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Stockholm Centre for Dependency Disorders, Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm County Council, Sweden
| | - Linnea Widman
- Division of Biostatistics, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Mia Ekström
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Jain JP, Strathdee SA, West BS, Gonzalez-Zuniga P, Rangel G, Pitpitan EV. Sex differences in the multilevel determinants of injection risk behaviours among people who inject drugs in Tijuana, Mexico. Drug Alcohol Rev 2020; 39:898-907. [PMID: 32794626 PMCID: PMC7959186 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND AIMS HIV and hepatitis C virus transmission among people who inject drugs (PWID) is fuelled by personal and environmental factors that vary by sex. We studied PWID in Mexico to identify sex differences in multilevel determinants of injection risk. DESIGN AND METHODS From 2011 to 2013, 734 PWID (female: 277, male: 457) were enrolled into an observational cohort study in Tijuana. Participants completed interviews on injection and sexual risks. Utilising baseline data, we conducted multiple generalised linear models stratified by sex to identify factors associated with injection risk scores (e.g. frequency of injection risk behaviours). RESULTS For both sexes, difficult access to sterile syringes was associated with elevated injection risk (b = 1.24, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.16-1.33), using syringes from a safe source (e.g. needle exchange programs) was associated with lower injection risk (b = 0.87, 95% CI 0.82-0.94), and for every one-unit increase in safe injection self-efficacy we observed a 20% decrease in injection risk (b = 0.80, 95% CI 0.76-0.84). Females had a higher safe injection self-efficacy score compared to males (median 2.83, interquartile range 2.2-3 vs. median 2.83, interquartile range 2-3; P = 0.01). Among females, incarceration (b = 1.22, 95% CI 1.09-1.36) and police confiscation of syringes in the past 6 months (b = 1.16, 95% CI 1.01-1.33) were associated with elevated injection risk. Among males, sex work (b = 1.16, 95% CI 1.04-1.30) and polysubstance use in the past 6 months (b = 1.22, 95% CI 1.13-1.31) were associated with elevated injection risk. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Interventions to reduce HIV and hepatitis C virus transmission among PWID in Tijuana should be sex-specific and consider multilevel determinants of injection risk to create safer drug use environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer P Jain
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, USA
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA
| | | | - Brooke S West
- School of Social Work, Columbia University, New York, USA
| | | | - Gudelia Rangel
- United States-Mexico Border Health Commission and El Colegio de la Frontera Norte, Tijuana, Mexico
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Saing CH, Prem K, Uk P, Chhoun P, Chann N, Tuot S, Mun P, Yi S. Risk factors associated with HIV and hepatitis C virus co-infection among people who inject drugs in Cambodia. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2020; 86:102974. [PMID: 33068831 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2020.102974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, research on the co-infection of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) among people who inject drugs is growing. However, studies in resource-poor countries remain limited. Therefore, we conducted this study to explore factors associated with HIV/HCV co-infection among people who inject drugs in Cambodia. METHODS This national survey was conducted in 2017 in the capital city and 11 provinces. We used a 'peer-based social network recruitment' method to recruit 286 participants for face-to-face interviews and HIV and HCV testing. A modified Cox proportional hazard model was used to identify risk factors associated with HIV/HCV co-infection. RESULTS The prevalence of HIV and HCV was 15.4% and 30.4%, respectively. Of the total, 9.4% of the participants were HIV/HCV co-infected, and 61.4% of the HIV-infected participants were co-infected with HCV. About half (56.8%) of the participants tested HIV positive were aware of their HIV status; of whom, 83.3% were on antiretroviral therapy. Only 11.5% of the participants with HCV antibody positivity were aware of their HCV infection status; of whom, 50.0% were on HCV treatment. The adjusted prevalence ratio (APR) of HIV/HCV co-infection was significantly higher among women than among men and among participants who lived on the streets than among those living with their family or relatives. The APR of HIV/HCV co-infection was also significantly higher among participants who had received methadone maintenance therapy than those who had not received it. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of HIV/HCV co-infection among people who inject drugs in Cambodia was considerably high. Intervention programs are required to increase access to harm-reduction interventions among most marginalized people who inject drugs to prevent HIV and HCV infection. HCV screening services should be expanded in this key population, given its small population size and the availability of directly-acting antiviral agents in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chan Hang Saing
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kiesha Prem
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore; Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Ponha Uk
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Pheak Chhoun
- KHANA Center for Population Health Research, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
| | - Navy Chann
- National Center for HIV/AIDS, Dermatology and STD, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Sovannary Tuot
- KHANA Center for Population Health Research, Phnom Penh, Cambodia; Faculty of Social Science and Humanity, Royal University of Phnom Penh, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
| | - Phalkun Mun
- National Center for HIV/AIDS, Dermatology and STD, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
| | - Siyan Yi
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore and National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore; KHANA Center for Population Health Research, Phnom Penh, Cambodia; School of Public Health, National Institute of Public Health, Phnom Penh, Cambodia; Center for Global Health Research, Touro University California, Vallejo, CA, United States.
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Rich NE, Murphy CC, Yopp AC, Tiro J, Marrero JA, Singal AG. Sex disparities in presentation and prognosis of 1110 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2020; 52:701-709. [PMID: 32598091 PMCID: PMC7655123 DOI: 10.1111/apt.15917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although sex disparities in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) incidence have been well described, there are limited data examining sex disparities in HCC prognosis. AIM To characterise sex differences in HCC presentation and prognosis. METHODS We performed a retrospective study of consecutive patients (n = 1110, 23.5% women) diagnosed with HCC between 2008 and 2017 at two US health systems. We used Cox proportional hazard and multivariable logistic regression models to identify factors associated with overall survival, early tumour detection and response to HCC treatment (per the modified Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors [mRECIST] criteria). RESULTS Women were older at HCC diagnosis (mean 62.5 vs 59.2 years, P < 0.001) and had a higher proportion of early-stage tumours (53.1% vs 43.7% Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer [BCLC] stage 0/A, P = 0.04), but similar liver function compared to men (49.2% vs 47.1% Child Pugh A, P = 0.27). In univariable analysis, women had significantly better overall survival than men (median 17.1 vs 12.0 months, P = 0.02). When stratified by age, younger (<65 years) women had better overall survival than men (18.3 vs 11.2 months, P = 0.02); however, older (≥65 years) women and men had similar overall survival (15.5 vs 15.7 months, P = 0.45). In multivariable analysis, female sex was independently associated with lower mortality after adjusting for age, race/ethnicity, alpha-fetoprotein, BCLC stage, Albumin-Bilirubin grade and Child Pugh score (hazard ratio [HR] 0.82, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.68-0.98). In secondary analyses, female sex was independently associated with early tumour detection (odds ratio [OR] 1.46, 95% CI 1.05-2.02) and response to first HCC treatment (OR 1.72, 95% CI 1.18-2.53) after adjusting for the same covariates. CONCLUSION In a large cohort of patients with HCC, women had significantly better prognosis than men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole E. Rich
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas TX,Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas TX
| | - Caitlin C. Murphy
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas TX,Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas TX,Department of Population and Data Sciences, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas TX
| | - Adam C. Yopp
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas TX,Department of Surgery, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas TX
| | - Jasmin Tiro
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas TX,Department of Population and Data Sciences, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas TX
| | - Jorge A. Marrero
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas TX
| | - Amit G. Singal
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas TX,Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas TX,Department of Population and Data Sciences, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas TX
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24
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Understanding the Family Planning Needs of Female Participants in a Syringe Exchange Program: A Needs Assessment and Pilot Project. J Addict Med 2020; 13:366-371. [PMID: 31589180 DOI: 10.1097/adm.0000000000000508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe the reproductive health needs of women who inject drugs (WWID) and are participants in a syringe exchange program (SEP) in Hawaii. Our secondary objective was to develop and pilot services in response to those needs. METHODS We conducted a reproductive health needs-assessment of women participating in the SEP. We also documented the perspectives and recommendations of key informants who work closely with women in this program. This needs-assessment informed a pilot contraceptive project at the SEP. RESULTS We received surveys from 50 syringe exchange participants and hosted 1 focus group with 6 participants. We completed 8 key informant interviews. The majority of survey respondents indicated that they did not want to become pregnant in the next year, but most were not using a reliable method of contraception. Additionally, for most respondents, prevention of pregnancy was a lower priority than other health and wellness needs. Focus group participants and key informants emphasized the importance of developing a network of accessible providers to address reproductive health needs, and also the importance of using the principles of trauma-informed care when developing a service. We developed a pilot program to offer contraceptive injections at the syringe exchange program. In the first 6 months of offering the service, 1 participant elected to use the injection. CONCLUSIONS WWID participating in this SEP may not prioritize their family planning needs when other health and safety needs are unmet. A pilot program to offer contraceptive injections at SEP had almost zero uptake.
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Balaeva T, Grjibovski AM, Samodova O, Sannikov A, Klouman E. Seroprevalence of markers of hepatitis C virus exposure and associated factors in adults aged 18-39 years in the Arctic Russian city of Arkhangelsk: a cross-sectional study. Int J Circumpolar Health 2020; 78:1648970. [PMID: 31370746 PMCID: PMC6711127 DOI: 10.1080/22423982.2019.1648970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C, caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV), is a major public health issue in Russia. The aim of our study was to assess the seroprevalence of markers of HCV exposure and factors associated with HCV seropositivity among the general population aged 18–39 years in the city of Arkhangelsk, Northwest Russia. A social research agency applied a quota sampling method to recruit study participants using cell phone numbers. All participants (n = 1243) completed a self-administered questionnaire and provided a blood sample. Sixty-five participants (5.2%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 4.9–5.5) tested positive for HCV IgM+G antibodies, and of these, 55 (84.6%) did not know that they were exposed to HCV. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, HCV seropositivity was significantly associated with older age, a history of injecting drug use, and having ever received a blood transfusion. To reach the goal of the World Health Organisation’s Global Health Sector Strategy on Viral Hepatitis, regional preventive programmes should include measures to reduce injecting drug use as well as scaling up harm-reduction and treatment programs for drug addicts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Balaeva
- a Department of Community Medicine, UiT The Arctic University of Norway , Tromsø , Norway.,b Department of Public Health, Northern State Medical University , Arkhangelsk , Russia.,c Department of Epidemiiological surveillance, Center of Hygiene and Epidemiology in the Arkhangelsk Region , Arkhangelsk , Russia
| | - Andrej M Grjibovski
- d Central Scientific Research Laboratory, Northern State Medical University , Arkhangelsk , Russia.,e Department of Public health, healthcare, hygiene and bioethics, North-Eastern Federal University , Yakutsk , Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), Russia.,f West Kazakhstan Marat Ospanov Medical University , Aktobe , Kazakhstan.,g Department of Healthcare Policy, Al-Farabi Kazakh National Medical University , Almaty , Kazakhstan
| | - Olga Samodova
- h Department of Infectious Diseases, Northern State Medical University , Arkhangelsk , Russia
| | - Anatoly Sannikov
- b Department of Public Health, Northern State Medical University , Arkhangelsk , Russia
| | - Elise Klouman
- a Department of Community Medicine, UiT The Arctic University of Norway , Tromsø , Norway
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The role of prison-based interventions for hepatitis C virus (HCV) micro-elimination among people who inject drugs in Montréal, Canada. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2020; 88:102738. [PMID: 32278651 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2020.102738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Revised: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Canada, hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission primarily occurs among people who inject drugs (PWID) and people with experience in the prison system bare a disproportionate disease burden. These overlapping groups of individuals have been identified as priority populations for HCV micro-elimination in Canada, which is currently not on track to achieve its elimination targets. Considering the missed opportunities to intervene in provincial prisons, this study aims to estimate the population-level impact of prison-based interventions and post-release risk reduction strategies on HCV transmission among PWID in Montréal, a Canadian city with high HCV burden. METHODS A dynamic HCV transmission model among PWID was developed and calibrated to community and prison bio-behavioural surveys in Montréal. Then, the relative impact of prison-based testing and treatment or post-release linkage to care (both 90% testing and 75% treatment coverage), alone or in combination with strategies that reduce the heightened post-release transmission risk by 50%, was estimated from 2018 to 2030, and compared to counterfactual scenarios. RESULTS Prison-based test-and-treat strategies could lead to the greatest declines in incidence (48%; 95%CrI: 38-57%) over 2018-2030 and prevent the most new first chronic infections (22%; 95%CrI: 16-28%) among people never exposed to HCV. Prison testing and post-release linkage to care lead to a slightly lower decrease in incidence and prevented fraction of new chronic infections. Combining test-and-treat with risk reduction measures could further its epidemiological impact, preventing 35% (95%CrI: 29-40%) of new first chronic infections. When implemented concomitantly with community-based treatment scale-up, prison-based interventions had synergistic effects, averting a higher fraction of new first chronic infections. CONCLUSION Offering HCV testing and treatment in provincial prisons, where incarcerations are frequent and sentences short, could change the course of the HCV epidemic in Montréal. Prison-based interventions with potential integration of post-release risk reduction measures should be considered as an integral part of HCV micro-elimination strategies in this setting.
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Leung J, Peacock A, Colledge S, Grebely J, Cunningham EB, Hickman M, Vickerman P, Stone J, Trickey A, Dumchev K, Lynskey M, Hines L, Griffiths P, Mattick RP, Degenhardt L, Larney S. A Global Meta-analysis of the Prevalence of HIV, Hepatitis C Virus, and Hepatitis B Virus Among People Who Inject Drugs-Do Gender-Based Differences Vary by Country-Level Indicators? J Infect Dis 2020; 220:78-90. [PMID: 30726973 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiz058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women-specific factors exist that increases vulnerability to drug-related harms from injection drug use, including blood-borne viruses (BBVs), but gender-based differences in BBV prevalence have not been systematically examined. METHODS We conducted meta-analyses to estimate country, regional, and global prevalence of serologically confirmed human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis C virus (HCV; based on detection of anti-HCV antibody), and hepatitis B virus (HBV; based on detection of HBV surface antigen) in people who inject drugs (PWID), by gender. Gender-based differences in the BBV prevalence (calculated as the risk among women relative to the risk among men) were regressed on country-level prevalence and inequality measures (Gender inequality index, Human development index, Gini coefficient, and high, low or middle income of the country). RESULTS Gender-based differences varied by countries and regions. HIV prevalence was higher among women than men in sub-Saharan Africa (relative risk [RR], 2.8; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.8-4.4) and South Asia (RR, 1.7; 95% CI, 1.1-2.7); anti-HCV was lower among women in the Middle East and North Africa (RR, 0.6; 95% CI, .5-.7) and East and Southeast Asia (RR, 0.8; 95% CI, .7-.9). Gender-based differences varied with country-levels of the BBV prevalence in the general population, human development, and income distribution. CONCLUSION HIV was more prevalent in women who inject drugs as compared to their male counterparts in some countries, but there is variation between and within regions. In countries where women are at higher risks, there is a need to develop gender-sensitive harm-reduction services for the particularly marginalized population of women who inject drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janni Leung
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, Australia
| | - Amy Peacock
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, Australia
| | | | - Jason Grebely
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Matthew Hickman
- Population Health Science, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol
| | - Peter Vickerman
- Population Health Science, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol
| | - Jack Stone
- Population Health Science, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol
| | - Adam Trickey
- Population Health Science, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol
| | | | - Michael Lynskey
- National Addiction Centre, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lindsey Hines
- Population Health Science, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol
| | - Paul Griffiths
- European Monitoring Centre on Drugs and Drug Addiction, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | | | - Sarah Larney
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, Australia
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Van Baelen L, Plettinckx E, Antoine J, Gremeaux L. Prevalence of HCV among people who inject drugs in Brussels-a respondent-driven sampling survey. Harm Reduct J 2020; 17:11. [PMID: 32085742 PMCID: PMC7035658 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-020-00358-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In Belgium, people who inject drugs (PWID) are at a high risk of being infected by hepatitis C (HCV) as injecting drug use is the main mode for transmission of HCV in Europe. Estimates about the number of people living with HCV in Belgium are rare and even less is known about the prevalence of HCV among PWID. Method Between 1 February 2019 and 26 April 2019, PWID and high-risk opiate users (HROU) were recruited in Brussels through respondent-driven sampling (RDS). They were invited to a questionnaire and underwent a rapid HCV test. Results A total of 253 respondents participated in the study, of which 168 were PWID and 238 were HROU, with 153 respondents belonging to both categories. The overall unweighted sample average for HCV antibodies was 41.1%. The weighted population estimates were 43.7% (95% CI 30.6–56.8%) for RDS-II and 43.4% (95% CI 28.9–58.0%) for RDS-SS. Conclusions This prevalence is lower than the prevalence estimates reported elsewhere in Europe. However, the data still suggest that serious efforts are needed to reach the goal set by the WHO to reduce HCV by 2030 with 90%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luk Van Baelen
- Sciensano, Rue Juliette Wytsmanstraat, 14, 1050, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Els Plettinckx
- Sciensano, Rue Juliette Wytsmanstraat, 14, 1050, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jérôme Antoine
- Sciensano, Rue Juliette Wytsmanstraat, 14, 1050, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Lies Gremeaux
- Sciensano, Rue Juliette Wytsmanstraat, 14, 1050, Brussels, Belgium
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Mehrabi Y, Etemad K, Noroozi A, Higgs P, Nasirian M, Sharhani A, Khademi N, Hajebi A, Noroozi M, Shakiba E, Hamzeh B, Azizmohammad Looha M. Correlates of injecting paraphernalia sharing among male drug injectors in Kermanshah, Iran: implications for HCV prevention. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/14659891.2019.1698670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yadollah Mehrabi
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Koorosh Etemad
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Noroozi
- Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Peter Higgs
- Department of Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia
| | - Maryam Nasirian
- Faculty of Biostatistics and Epidemiology Department, Health School, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Asaad Sharhani
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Nahid Khademi
- CDC Department, Kermanshah Health Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Ahmad Hajebi
- Research Center for Addiction & Risky Behaviors (ReCARB), Psychiatric Department, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Noroozi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Shakiba
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Behrooz Hamzeh
- Research Center for Environmental Determinants of Health, School of Public Health, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Mehdi Azizmohammad Looha
- Department of Biostatistics, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Latent Classes of Sexual Risk Behavior and Engagement in Outreach, Intervention and Prevention Services Among Women Who Inject Drugs Across 20 US Cities. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr 2019; 79:305-314. [PMID: 30044301 DOI: 10.1097/qai.0000000000001816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Monitoring the effects of HIV prevention efforts among persons who inject drugs is key to informing prevention programs and policy. METHODS Data for this study came from the 2012 National HIV Behavioral Surveillance interviews with persons who inject drugs across 20 US cities. The present analyses include those who identified as female, ever had sex with a man, and were at risk of HIV infection (did not report a previous positive HIV test result) (n = 2624). We conducted latent class analysis to identify sexual risk classes, and modeled associations with engagement in HIV prevention services and HIV test results. RESULTS We identified 6 classes of sexual risk behavior: (1) low risk, (2) monogamous, (3) casual partner, (4) multiple partners, (5) exchange sex, and (6) exchange plus main partner. The class distribution was similar across the mainland regions. Bisexual orientation and homelessness were significant predictors of higher-risk class. HIV prevalence and participation in behavioral interventions did not vary significantly by risk class, while obtaining and using free condoms did. Independent of risk class, women in cities in the South were significantly less likely to use free condoms, and HIV prevalence was higher among non-Hispanic black women and women aged 40-49 years. CONCLUSIONS Bisexual orientation and homelessness were predictors of higher risk. Condom distribution programs reached fewer women in cities in the South. Race and age disparities in HIV-positive rates persisted after adjusting for sexual risk class.
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Prevalence, estimated incidence, risk behaviours, and genotypic distribution of hepatitis C virus among people who inject drugs accessing harm-reduction services in Kenya: a retrospective cohort study. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2019; 19:1255-1263. [PMID: 31540840 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(19)30264-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Revised: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sub-Saharan Africa has a large population of people with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, yet little is known about HCV among people who inject drugs this region. We assessed the prevalence of HCV mono-infection and HIV-HCV co-infection, and the estimated incidence, genotypes, and risk behaviours associated with HCV among people who inject drugs in Kenya. METHODS People aged 18 years or older who were living in Nairobi, coastal Kenya, or western Kenya, had a history of injection drug use, and had used any illicit drugs in the past 12 months were recruited at needle and syringe programme sites using respondent-driven sampling. Participants were screened for the presence of an anti-HCV antibody. Those who were anti-HCV positive underwent confirmatory HCV RNA testing, and those with detectable HCV RNA were genotyped. Participants were interviewed regarding parenteral risk behaviours and exposure to services received at the needle and syringe programme sites. We examined correlates of HCV infection and HIV-HCV co-infection using bivariate and multivariate regression, and estimated HCV incidence. FINDINGS Of 2188 enrolled participants, 291 (13%) were anti-HCV positive: 183 (22%) of 842 participants in coastal Kenya, 105 (13%) of 817 in Nairobi, and three (1%) of 529 in western Kenya. 284 anti-HCV-positive participants underwent successful HCV RNA testing, of whom 230 (81%) were viraemic. Estimated incidence rates of anti-HCV positivity per 100 person-years were 6·31 in coastal Kenya, 3·19 in Nairobi, and 0·22 in western Kenya. HCV incidence rate was greater in coastal Kenya compared with Nairobi (incidence rate ratio 1·97 [95% CI 1·35-2·93], p=0·0001) and the western region (28·17 [7·55-236·58], p<0·0001). In the coastal region, history of incarceration, more years injecting, more injections in the past month, and receptive cooker sharing were associated with increased risk of HCV, while female sex, more years injecting, more injections in the past month, and regular use of a syringe with a detachable needle were associated with HCV risk in Nairobi. HCV prevalence among HIV-positive participants was 50% (66 of 131 participants) in coastal Kenya, 35% (42 of 121) in Nairobi, and 4% (one of 23) in western Kenya. Risk factors for HIV-HCV co-infection were similar to those observed for HCV mono-infection. The prevailing genotypes were 1a (51%), 4a (47%), and mixed (2%; three 1a/4a and one 1a/2b). INTERPRETATION HCV prevalence, estimated incidence, and risk behaviours among people who inject drugs in Kenya vary with region, with the highest estimated incidence observed in coastal Kenya. These findings should be used to inform focused strategies to reduce HCV transmission, such as expansion of needle and syringe programmes, upscaling of opioid agonist therapy, and treatment as prevention in regions affected by injection drug use and HCV. FUNDING National Institute on Drug Abuse.
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Lower HCV treatment uptake in women who have received opioid agonist therapy before and during the DAA era: The ANRS FANTASIO project. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2019; 72:61-68. [PMID: 31129024 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2019.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the era of direct-acting antivirals (DAA) for the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, HCV treatment uptake remains insufficiently documented in key populations such as people with opioid dependence. Access to opioid agonist therapy (OAT) is facilitated in France through delivery in primary care, and individuals with opioid dependence can be identified as those receiving OAT. Women with opioid dependence are especially vulnerable because of associated sex-related stigma, discrimination, and marginalization, all of which negatively interfere with access to HCV prevention and care. This study, based on data collected between 2012 and 2016 in France, aimed to assess whether (i) chronically HCV-infected women with opioid dependence had lower rates of HCV treatment uptake than their male counterparts during the same period (i.e., study period), and (ii) the advent of DAA resulted in increased treatment uptake rates in these women. METHODS Individuals with opioid dependence were identified as those receiving OAT at least once during the study period. Analyses were based on exhaustive anonymous care delivery data from the French national healthcare reimbursement database. We used multinomial logistic regression to estimate sex-based disparities in HCV treatment uptake (DAA or pegylated-interferon (Peg-IFN)-based treatment versus no treatment) while accounting for potential confounders. RESULTS The study sample comprised 27,127 individuals, including 5640 (20.8%) women. Median [interquartile range] age was 45 [40-49] years. Between 2012 and 2016, 70.9 (women: 77.2; men: 69.3), 17.3 (14.2; 18.2) and 11.7% (8.6%; 12.5%) of the study sample received, respectively, no HCV treatment, DAA and Peg-IFN-based treatment only. After multiple adjustment for potential confounders, women were 41% (adjusted odds-ratio (AOR) [95% confidence interval (CI]): 0.59[0.53-0.65]) and 28% (0.72[0.66-0.78]) less likely than men to have had Peg-IFN-based and DAA treatment, respectively. CONCLUSION Despite increased HCV treatment uptake in women with opioid dependence in the DAA era, rates remain lower than for men. In the coming years, access to DAA treatment will continue to increase in France thanks to a forthcoming simplified model of HCV care which includes primary care as an entry point. Nevertheless, a greater understanding of sex-specific barriers to HCV care and the implementation of appropriate sex-specific measures remain a priority.
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Kushner T, Chappell CA, Kim AY. Testing for Hepatitis C in Pregnancy: the Time has Come for Routine Rather than Risk-based. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 18:206-215. [PMID: 31890461 DOI: 10.1007/s11901-019-00468-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of review The purpose of this review is to discuss the reasons for HCV testing during pregnancy and to review what is known about antiviral treatment during pregnancy. Recent findings Hepatitis C virus affects over 3 million persons in the United States and is one of the leading infectious causes of death. While HCV is most commonly transmitted via parenteral exposures, thus affecting people who inject drugs, it is also transmitted from mother-to-child. Due to an expanding opioid crisis, an increasing number of women of childbearing age are now infected, resulting in transmission to infants. Risk-based screening has never been proven effective and thus universal screening of pregnant women for HCV infection has been recommended. Summary Obstetricians may play a key role in the U.S. by implementing universal testing for HCV in pregnant women, thereby enhancing the health of mothers and identifying children at risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatyana Kushner
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L Levy Place, Box 1123, New York, NY, 10029
| | - Catherine A Chappell
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 300 Halket Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15206
| | - Arthur Y Kim
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, 55 Fruit Street Cox 6, Boston, MA 02114
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Cao S, Liu F, Wang T, Tan Y, Liu S, Liu Y, Gao L, Chen L. New patterns emerge after a sustained increase in the incidence of hepatitis C virus infection from 2004 to 2017: a joinpoint regression analysis. Public Health 2019; 170:49-56. [PMID: 30928613 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2019.01.014] [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: 08/20/2018] [Revised: 01/02/2019] [Accepted: 01/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection continues to be a major public health concern in China. There is little information available in the literature about age- and sex-specific HCV incidence trends. The goal of this study was to examine recent trends in HCV incidence rates in Hunan, China, according to age and gender. STUDY DESIGN A descriptive study was implemented with a joinpoint analysis. METHODS Based on the annual reported incidence data of hepatitis C in Hunan, China, from 2004 to 2017, we performed a joinpoint regression analysis to examine trends in the annual percentage change (APC) and the average annual percentage change (AAPC) in the incidence of HCV infection throughout the study period; we stratified the analysis by gender and age. The software calculates the APC, AAPC and the 95% confidence intervals for each trend segment and tests whether the slope for each segment has a significant difference from the prior segment using a Z test. RESULTS From 2004 to 2017, the overall incidence rate of HCV infection rose from 0.93 per 100,000 to 20.88 per 100,000 (AAPC, 25.2%). In particular, women aged ≥65 years had the fastest increasing rate (AAPC, 29.9%). The incidence of different demographic groups showed no significant difference in increasing trends before 2013. However, new patterns emerged after 2013: the incidence of people aged 0-14 years was no longer significantly elevated; a significant yearly decline occurred in the incidence of HCV in people aged 15-29 years; the incidence of HCV in people aged ≥30 years continued to increase, with significantly slower increasing rates than before; and women aged ≥65 years showed a significantly higher yearly increase in incidence than that in men in the same age group (APC, 11.1% in women versus 5.3% in men). CONCLUSION The overall increasing rate of HCV infection significantly slowed after 2007 and 2013. The differences in incidence trends among demographic groups have obviously increased in the last 5 years, and the reasons underlying these different trends urgently require further study. People in older age groups, especially women aged ≥65 years, still experienced increases in incidence rates in the last 5 years. This finding indicates that programmes for the prevention and control of HCV infection in older people require continued strengthening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiyu Cao
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410078, China
| | - Fuqiang Liu
- Department of Public Health Emergency Treatment, Hunan Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Changsha, Hunan Province, 410005, China
| | - Tingting Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410078, China
| | - Yaqing Tan
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410078, China
| | - Shujun Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410078, China
| | - Yuan Liu
- Department of Chronic Disease Control and Prevention, Hunan Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Changsha, Hunan Province, 410005, China
| | - Lidong Gao
- Department of Public Health Emergency Treatment, Hunan Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Changsha, Hunan Province, 410005, China.
| | - Lizhang Chen
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Xiangya School of Public Health, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410078, China.
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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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Iversen J, Dore GJ, Catlett B, Cunningham P, Grebely J, Maher L. Association between rapid utilisation of direct hepatitis C antivirals and decline in the prevalence of viremia among people who inject drugs in Australia. J Hepatol 2019; 70:33-39. [PMID: 30367897 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2018.09.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Revised: 07/04/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The World Health Organization (WHO) established targets to eliminate hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection as a public health threat by 2030. Evidence that HCV treatment can lower viraemic prevalence among people who inject drugs (PWID) is limited. Broad accessibility of direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy in Australia, since March 2016, provides an opportunity to assess the efficacy of these treatments at a population level in a real-world setting. METHODS Data from Australia's annual bio-behavioural surveillance examined treatment uptake and estimated viraemic prevalence among PWID attending needle syringe programs nationally between 2015 and 2017. Multivariate logistic regression identified variables independently associated with HCV treatment among those considered eligible (anti-HCV positive excluding HCV RNA negative with no self-reported history of HCV treatment) in 2017. RESULTS Annual samples ranged from 1,995-2,380 PWID. Anti-HCV prevalence declined from 57% (2015) to 49% (2017, χ2p trend <0.001), with 40-56% of anti-HCV positive respondents providing sufficient sample for HCV RNA testing. Between 2015 and 2017, treatment uptake among those eligible increased from 10% to 41% (χ2p trend <0.001) and viraemic prevalence among the overall sample declined from 43% to 25% (χ2p trend <0.001). In multivariable analysis, older age (≥50 years adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.82; 95% CI 1.09-3.06;p = 0.023 and 44-49 years aOR 1.75; 95% CI 1.03-3.00;p = 0.038 vs. ≤37 years) and history of opioid substitution therapy (aOR 2.06; 95% CI 1.30-3.26; p = 0.002) were independently associated with treatment. CONCLUSIONS This study confirms PWID are willing to initiate treatment when HCV DAA therapy is available and provides population-level evidence of a decline in viraemic prevalence among people most at risk of ongoing HCV transmission. Scaled up surveillance and monitoring are required to evaluate progress toward WHO HCV elimination goals. LAY SUMMARY The World Health Organization's goal to reduce hepatitis C virus incidence by 80% will be difficult to achieve without widespread scale up and a corresponding reduction in viraemic prevalence among those most at risk of onward transmission. Our results indicate that a population-level reduction in viraemic prevalence is achievable through high levels of treatment and cure among people who inject drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Iversen
- The Kirby Institute, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Australia.
| | - Gregory J Dore
- The Kirby Institute, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Australia
| | - Beth Catlett
- The Kirby Institute, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Australia; NSW State Reference Laboratory for HIV, St Vincent's Centre for Applied Medical Research, St Vincent's Hospital Sydney, Australia
| | - Philip Cunningham
- NSW State Reference Laboratory for HIV, St Vincent's Centre for Applied Medical Research, St Vincent's Hospital Sydney, Australia
| | - Jason Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Australia
| | - Lisa Maher
- The Kirby Institute, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Australia
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Jahromi M, Al-Otaibi T, Othman N, Gheith O, Mahmoud T, Nair P, Halim MA, Nampoory N. Immunogenetics of new onset diabetes after transplantation in Kuwait. Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes 2019; 12:731-742. [PMID: 31190933 PMCID: PMC6535099 DOI: 10.2147/dmso.s195859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2018] [Accepted: 03/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction and aim: New onset diabetes after transplantation (NODAT) is a serious metabolic complication following kidney transplantation. Although beta-cell dysfunction is considered the main contributing factor in the development of this complication, its exact etiology is yet to be identified. We aimed to investigate NODAT among kidney transplant cohort in Kuwait with special stress on correlation between its risk factors and interferon gamma genotyping. Materials and methods: We surveyed 309 kidney transplant recipients from Hamed Al Essa Transplantation Centre, Kuwait. The participants were categorized into cohorts according to the development of NODAT diagnosed based on the American Diabetes Association guidelines. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software. We genotyped interferon gamma as the leading immunosignature for T lymphocyte. Results: No relationship between ethnicity and the development of NODAT was identified. However, there was a significant difference in age between cohorts. Younger patients demonstrated a lower rate of NODAT while, NODAT reached its maximum in 40-60-year age group. IFNG TT genotype was significantly associated with NODAT (p=0.005), while IFNG AA was considerably higher in the non-NODAT group. Conclusion: Beside the conventional contributing factors of NODAT, our results might represent a suitable platform for a larger cytokine and chemokine spectrum genotyping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Jahromi
- Clinical Research, Medical Division, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Kuwait City, Kuwait
- Correspondence: Mohamed JahromiClinical Research, Medical Division, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Jasmin Mohamas Al Bahar Street, PO Box 118015462Kuwait City, KuwaitTel +9 652 224 2999Fax +9 652 249 2408 Email
| | - Torki Al-Otaibi
- Nephrology Department, Hamid Al-Essa Organ Transplant Center, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Nashwa Othman
- Education, Clinical Services Division, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Osama Gheith
- Nephrology Department, Hamid Al-Essa Organ Transplant Center, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Tarek Mahmoud
- Nephrology Department, Hamid Al-Essa Organ Transplant Center, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Prasad Nair
- Nephrology Department, Hamid Al-Essa Organ Transplant Center, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Medhat A Halim
- Nephrology Department, Hamid Al-Essa Organ Transplant Center, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Narayanam Nampoory
- Clinical Research, Medical Division, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Kuwait City, Kuwait
- Nephrology Department, Hamid Al-Essa Organ Transplant Center, Kuwait City, Kuwait
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Parent S, Salters K, Awendila L, Ti L. Hepatitis C and pregnancy outcomes: a systematic review protocol. BMJ Open 2018; 8:e024288. [PMID: 30580273 PMCID: PMC6318518 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-024288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Revised: 09/24/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Many women living with hepatitis C (HCV) are of childbearing age. While the risk of vertical HCV transmission has been well established, the impact of HCV on pregnancy outcomes are equivocal, with some studies reporting risks of preterm birth, low gestational weight, gestational diabetes and hypertension, while other studies report no such risks. With the shift of the HCV treatment landscape to more effective, tolerable and shorter medications, understanding pregnancy outcomes of women living with HCV are an important consideration in order to provide a baseline from which to consider the usefulness and safety of HCV treatment for this population. The objective of this systematic review will be to investigate pregnancy outcomes associated with maternal HCV infection. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This systematic review will incorporate articles relevant to pregnancy outcomes among women living with HCV (eg, gestational diabetes and caesarean delivery). Articles will be retrieved from academic databases including MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, clinicaltrial.gov and the Cochrane Library and hand searching of conference proceedings and reference lists. A database search will not be restricted by date, and conference abstract will be restricted to the past 2 years. The Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale will be used to assess the quality of the retrieved studies. Data will be extracted and scored independently by two authors. A narrative account will synthesise the findings to answer the objectives of this review. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This systematic review will synthesise the literature on the pregnancy outcomes of women living with HCV. Results from this review will be disseminated to clinical audiences, community groups and policy-makers, and may support clinicians and decision-makers in developing guidelines to promote best outcomes for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Parent
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kate Salters
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, University Drive, Burnaby, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Lindila Awendila
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Lianping Ti
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Pradat P, Virlogeux V, Trépo E. Epidemiology and Elimination of HCV-Related Liver Disease. Viruses 2018; 10:E545. [PMID: 30301201 PMCID: PMC6213504 DOI: 10.3390/v10100545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2018] [Revised: 10/01/2018] [Accepted: 10/03/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, defined by active carriage of HCV RNA, affects nearly 1.0% of the worldwide population. The main risk factors include unsafe injection drug use and iatrogenic infections. Chronic HCV infection can promote liver damage, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in affected individuals. The advent of new second-generation, direct-acting antiviral (DAA) agents allow a virological cure in more than 90% of treated patients, and therefore prevent HCV-related complications. Recently, concerns have been raised regarding the safety of DAA-regimens in cirrhotic patients with respect to the occurrence and the recurrence of HCC. Here, we review the current available data on HCV epidemiology, the beneficial effects of therapy, and discuss the recent controversy with respect to the potential link with liver cancer. We also highlight the challenges that have to be overcome to achieve the ambitious World Health Organization objective of HCV eradication by 2030.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Pradat
- Centre for Clinical Research, Groupement Hospitalier Nord, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 69004 Lyon, France.
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM 1052, CNRS 5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, 69008 Lyon, France.
- Lyon University, Lyon, France.
| | - Victor Virlogeux
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM 1052, CNRS 5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, 69008 Lyon, France.
- Lyon University, Lyon, France.
- Department of Hepatology, Croix-Rousse Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 69004 Lyon, France.
| | - Eric Trépo
- Liver Unit, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatopancreatology and Digestive Oncology, CUB Hôpital Erasme, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1070 Bruxelles, Belgium.
- Laboratory of Experimental Gastroenterology, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 1070 Bruxelles, Belgium.
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Morris MD, Montgomery ME, Briceno A, Evans JL, Andrew EVW, Page K, Hahn JA. A Study of Sexual Relationship Power among Young Women Who Inject Drugs and Their Sexual Partners. Subst Use Misuse 2018; 53:1281-1287. [PMID: 29286888 PMCID: PMC6063526 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2017.1404105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To date, research applying the Sexual Relationship Power Scale (SRPS) has been limited to sexual risk behaviors. OBJECTIVE We measured levels of sexual relationship power and examined associations between sexual relationship power and injecting and sexual behaviors that place women at increased risk for blood borne infections. METHODS Using data from a cross-sectional study of young women who inject drugs (WWID) in San Francisco, USA, logistic regression analysis identified independent associations between SRPS and subscale scores (relationship control [RC] and decision making dominance [DMD]) and injecting and sexual behaviors. RESULTS Of the 68 young WWID, 24 (34%) reported receptive syringe sharing, 38 (56%) reused/shared a cooker to prepare drugs, and 25 (37%) injected someone else's drug residue during the three-months prior to enrollment. Most (60, 88%) reported condomless sex with main sex-partner, 8 (12%) reported transactional sex, and 36 (53%) had two or more recent sex partners. The median SRPS score was 2.98 (IQR: 2.65, 3.18), 3.23 (IQR: 3.23, 3.57) for RC and 2.40 (IQR: 2.20, 2.60) for DMD. No significant associations were detected between SRPS or DMD and injecting or sexual risk behaviors. After adjusting for gender and years injecting, for every one-point increase in RC, women had a 6.70 lower odds of recent condomless sex (95%CI: 0.92, 50.00, p = 0.06), and a 3.90 lower odds of recent transactional sex (95%CI: 1.22, 12.50, p = 0.02). CONCLUSION Our study findings suggest that some components of sexual relationship power may play a role in sexual risk, but not in injecting risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan D Morris
- a Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics , University of California , San Francisco , California , USA
| | - Martha E Montgomery
- b Department of Emergency Medicine , Alameda Health System - Highland Hospital , Oakland , California , USA
| | - Alya Briceno
- a Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics , University of California , San Francisco , California , USA
| | - Jennifer L Evans
- a Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics , University of California , San Francisco , California , USA
| | - Erin V W Andrew
- c Department of Internal Medicine , University of New Mexico Health Center , Albuquerque , New Mexico , USA
| | - Kimberly Page
- c Department of Internal Medicine , University of New Mexico Health Center , Albuquerque , New Mexico , USA
| | - Judith A Hahn
- a Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics , University of California , San Francisco , California , USA.,d Department of Medicine , University of California , San Francisco , California , USA
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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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Hall EW, Rosenberg ES, Sullivan PS. Estimates of state-level chronic hepatitis C virus infection, stratified by race and sex, United States, 2010. BMC Infect Dis 2018; 18:224. [PMID: 29769036 PMCID: PMC5956841 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-018-3133-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Accepted: 05/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the most common blood-borne viral infection in the United States. Previously, we used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and mortality data from the National Vital Statistics System (NVSS) to estimate the prevalence of HCV antibodies (anti-HCV) and HCV RNA among all U.S. states. However, demographic differences in HCV burden at the state-level have not been systematically described. This analysis quantified the HCV burden stratified by sex and race (and associated disparities) for each U.S. state. Methods Building on our previous method, we used three publicly available data sources to estimate HCV RNA prevalence among noninstitutionalized adults stratified by sex and race group. We used a small-area estimation approach that included direct standardization of NHANES demographic data with logistic regression modeling of HCV-related mortality data as an adjustment factor to estimate the state-level prevalence and total persons with chronic HCV infection for sex and race groups in all U.S. states. Results Nationally, males had an estimated HCV RNA prevalence of 1.56% (95% CI: 1.37–1.84%) and females had a prevalence of 0.75% (95% CI: 0.63–0.96%). Stratified by race, national estimated prevalence of HCV RNA was highest among non-Hispanic black (2.43, 95% CI: 2.10–2.90%), followed by non-Hispanic white (1.05, 95% CI: 0.90–1.27%) and Hispanic/other (0.74, 95% CI: 0.59–1.04%). Males in most jurisdictions (41/51) have an HCV RNA prevalence that is between 1.5 and 2.5 times higher than their female counterparts. Conclusions HCV infection disparities by sex are mostly consistent across the country. However, race differences in HCV infection differ by state and tailored prevention and treatment efforts specific to the local HCV epidemic are needed to reduce race disparities. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12879-018-3133-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric W Hall
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, 1518 Clifton Road, GCR 432, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
| | - Eli S Rosenberg
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University at Albany School of Public Health, 1 University Place, rm 123, Rensselaer, NY, 12144, USA
| | - Patrick S Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, 1518 Clifton Road, GCR 432, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
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Esmaeili A, Mirzazadeh A, Morris MD, Hajarizadeh B, Sacks HS, Maher L, Grebely J, Kim AY, Lauer G, Cox AL, Hellard M, Dietze P, Bruneau J, Shoukry NH, Dore GJ, Lloyd AR, Prins M, Page K. The Effect of Female Sex on Hepatitis C Incidence Among People Who Inject Drugs: Results From the International Multicohort InC3 Collaborative. Clin Infect Dis 2018; 66:20-28. [PMID: 29020200 PMCID: PMC5850635 DOI: 10.1093/cid/cix768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The objective of this study was to assess differences in hepatitis C virus (HCV) incidence by sex in people who inject drugs (PWID), using a large international multicohort set of pooled biological and behavioral data from prospective observational studies of incident human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and HCV infections in high-risk cohorts (the InC3 Collaborative). Methods HCV infection date was estimated based on a hierarchy of successive serological (anti-HCV), virological (HCV RNA), and clinical (symptoms and/or liver function tests) data. We used a Cox proportional hazards model to calculate the crude and adjusted female to male (F:M) hazard ratio (HR) for HCV incidence using biological sex as the main exposure. Results A total of 1868 PWID were observed over 3994 person-years of observation (PYO). Unadjusted F:M HR was 1.38 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.15-1.65) and remained significant after adjusting for behavioral and demographic risk factors (1.39 [95% CI, 1.12-1.72]). Although syringe and equipment sharing were associated with the highest HCV incidence rate in women (41.62 and 36.83 PYO, respectively), we found no sex differences attributed to these risk factors. Conclusions Our findings indicate that women who inject drugs may be at greater risk of HCV acquisition than men, independent of demographic characteristics and risk behaviors. Multiple factors, including biological (hormonal), social network, and differential access to prevention services, may contribute to increased HCV susceptibility in women who inject drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aryan Esmaeili
- Thomas C. Chalmers Clinical Trials Unit, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Ali Mirzazadeh
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Meghan D Morris
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco
| | | | - Henry S Sacks
- Thomas C. Chalmers Clinical Trials Unit, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Lisa Maher
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jason Grebely
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Georg Lauer
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Andrea L Cox
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | | | - Paul Dietze
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Julie Bruneau
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Université de Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Naglaa H Shoukry
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Université de Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Gregory J Dore
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Andrew R Lloyd
- School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Maria Prins
- The Public Health Service of Amsterdam (GGD Amsterdam), The Netherlands
| | - Kimberly Page
- Division of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Preventive Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque
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Hepatitis C Virus Seroprevalence and Associated Risk Factors Among Male Drug Injectors in Kermanshah, Iran. HEPATITIS MONTHLY 2017. [DOI: 10.5812/hepatmon.58739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
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Platt L, Minozzi S, Reed J, Vickerman P, Hagan H, French C, Jordan A, Degenhardt L, Hope V, Hutchinson S, Maher L, Palmateer N, Taylor A, Bruneau J, Hickman M. Needle syringe programmes and opioid substitution therapy for preventing hepatitis C transmission in people who inject drugs. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2017; 9:CD012021. [PMID: 28922449 PMCID: PMC5621373 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd012021.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Needle syringe programmes and opioid substitution therapy for preventing hepatitis C transmission in people who inject drugsNeedle syringe programmes (NSP) and opioid substitution therapy (OST) are the primary interventions to reduce hepatitis C (HCV) transmission in people who inject drugs. There is good evidence for the effectiveness of NSP and OST in reducing injecting risk behaviour and increasing evidence for the effectiveness of OST and NSP in reducing HIV acquisition risk, but the evidence on the effectiveness of NSP and OST for preventing HCV acquisition is weak. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects of needle syringe programmes and opioid substitution therapy, alone or in combination, for preventing acquisition of HCV in people who inject drugs. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Drug and Alcohol Register, CENTRAL, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSR), the Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects (DARE), the Health Technology Assessment Database (HTA), the NHS Economic Evaluation Database (NHSEED), MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, Global Health, CINAHL, and the Web of Science up to 16 November 2015. We updated this search in March 2017, but we have not incorporated these results into the review yet. Where observational studies did not report any outcome measure, we asked authors to provide unpublished data. We searched publications of key international agencies and conference abstracts. We reviewed reference lists of all included articles and topic-related systematic reviews for eligible papers. SELECTION CRITERIA We included prospective and retrospective cohort studies, cross-sectional surveys, case-control studies and randomised controlled trials that measured exposure to NSP and/or OST against no intervention or a reduced exposure and reported HCV incidence as an outcome in people who inject drugs. We defined interventions as current OST (within previous 6 months), lifetime use of OST and high NSP coverage (regular attendance at an NSP or all injections covered by a new needle/syringe) or low NSP coverage (irregular attendance at an NSP or less than 100% of injections covered by a new needle/syringe) compared with no intervention or reduced exposure. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We followed the standard Cochrane methodological procedures incorporating new methods for classifying risk of bias for observational studies. We described study methods against the following 'Risk of bias' domains: confounding, selection bias, measurement of interventions, departures from intervention, missing data, measurement of outcomes, selection of reported results; and we assigned a judgment (low, moderate, serious, critical, unclear) for each criterion. MAIN RESULTS We identified 28 studies (21 published, 7 unpublished): 13 from North America, 5 from the UK, 4 from continental Europe, 5 from Australia and 1 from China, comprising 1817 incident HCV infections and 8806.95 person-years of follow-up. HCV incidence ranged from 0.09 cases to 42 cases per 100 person-years across the studies. We judged only two studies to be at moderate overall risk of bias, while 17 were at serious risk and 7 were at critical risk; for two unpublished datasets there was insufficient information to assess bias. As none of the intervention effects were generated from RCT evidence, we typically categorised quality as low. We found evidence that current OST reduces the risk of HCV acquisition by 50% (risk ratio (RR) 0.50, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.40 to 0.63, I2 = 0%, 12 studies across all regions, N = 6361), but the quality of the evidence was low. The intervention effect remained significant in sensitivity analyses that excluded unpublished datasets and papers judged to be at critical risk of bias. We found evidence of differential impact by proportion of female participants in the sample, but not geographical region of study, the main drug used, or history of homelessness or imprisonment among study samples.Overall, we found very low-quality evidence that high NSP coverage did not reduce risk of HCV acquisition (RR 0.79, 95% CI 0.39 to 1.61) with high heterogeneity (I2 = 77%) based on five studies from North America and Europe involving 3530 participants. After stratification by region, high NSP coverage in Europe was associated with a 76% reduction in HCV acquisition risk (RR 0.24, 95% CI 0.09 to 0.62) with less heterogeneity (I2 =0%). We found low-quality evidence of the impact of combined high coverage of NSP and OST, from three studies involving 3241 participants, resulting in a 74% reduction in the risk of HCV acquisition (RR 0.26 95% CI 0.07 to 0.89). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS OST is associated with a reduction in the risk of HCV acquisition, which is strengthened in studies that assess the combination of OST and NSP. There was greater heterogeneity between studies and weaker evidence for the impact of NSP on HCV acquisition. High NSP coverage was associated with a reduction in the risk of HCV acquisition in studies in Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy Platt
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineDepartment of Social and Environmental Health Research15 ‐ 17 Tavistock PlaceLondonUKWC1H 9SH
| | - Silvia Minozzi
- Lazio Regional Health ServiceDepartment of EpidemiologyVia Cristoforo Colombo, 112RomeItaly00154
| | | | - Peter Vickerman
- University of BristolSchool of Social and Community MedicineBristolUK
| | - Holly Hagan
- New York University College of NursingNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Clare French
- University of BristolSchool of Social and Community MedicineBristolUK
| | - Ashly Jordan
- New York University College of NursingNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Louisa Degenhardt
- UNSWNational Drug and Alcohol Research CentreBuilding R322‐32 King StreetRandwickNSWAustralia2031
| | - Vivian Hope
- Liverpool John Moores UniversityPublic Health InstituteLiverpoolUKL3 2ET
| | | | - Lisa Maher
- Kirby Institute, University of New South WalesSydneyAustralia
| | | | | | - Julie Bruneau
- University of MontrealDepartment of Family and Emergency MedicineMontrealCanada
| | - Matthew Hickman
- University of BristolSchool of Social and Community MedicineBristolUK
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