1
|
Cohen JF, Ward KM, Gittleman J, Perez E, Pia T, Shuter J, Weinberger AH, Sulkowski M. Hepatitis C and Cigarette Smoking Behavior: Themes From Focus Groups. Nicotine Tob Res 2024; 26:1029-1037. [PMID: 38422381 DOI: 10.1093/ntr/ntae032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION People with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV; PWHC) use cigarettes at a much higher prevalence than other individuals, and smoking can exacerbate the harms specifically related to HCV (eg, hepatocellular carcinoma). Little is known about factors related to cigarette use among PWHC. AIMS AND METHODS This study examined focus group data to explore beliefs and behaviors related to cigarette use among PWHC. Qualitative data from two focus groups of PWHC reporting current cigarette smoking (n = 15, 60% male) were collected using a semi-structured interview guide. Participants were asked about reasons for smoking, barriers to quitting smoking, and the relationship of HCV to smoking. Focus groups were transcribed verbatim and coded in NVivo 12. Four coders examined themes that arose in the focus groups. Common themes are described and supported with quotes. RESULTS Reasons for smoking included addiction to cigarettes, stress, substituting cigarettes for other drugs, and social norms, while reasons for quitting included health and being free from the use of all drugs. Barriers to quitting included concerns about coping with stress, weight gain, and having a lack of support for and education about quitting. Many participants believed there was a link between smoking and HCV and discussed smoking in relation to the stress of an HCV diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS Participants identified both HCV-related and non-HCV-related aspects of cigarette smoking and cessation-related behaviors that could be targeted in cessation treatment. More research is needed to identify the best treatment approaches that reduce the significant medical consequences of cigarette use among PWHC. IMPLICATIONS People with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV; PWHC) smoke cigarettes at a high prevalence, yet little is known about their smoking behaviors. Moreover, there are no cessation treatments targeting PWHC. This is the first study to collect focus group data from PWHC who smoke in order to identify reasons for cigarette use (HCV-related and non-HCV-related), and motivators and barriers to quitting cigarettes. PWHC reports using cigarettes to cope with the stress of an HCV diagnosis and to celebrate HCV cure. These findings suggest there are specific times during the HCV care continuum where providers can aid with cessation efforts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia F Cohen
- Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, Yeshiva University, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Kathleen M Ward
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Community Health and Prevention, Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jennifer Gittleman
- Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, Yeshiva University, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Esther Perez
- Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, Yeshiva University, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Tyler Pia
- Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, Yeshiva University, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Jonathan Shuter
- Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
- AIDS Center and Division of Infectious Diseases, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Andrea H Weinberger
- Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, Yeshiva University, Bronx, NY, USA
- Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Mark Sulkowski
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Round JM, Savaryn B, Plitt SS, Shafran SD, Charlton CL. Identifying gaps in the treatment of hepatitis C in patients co-infected with HIV in Edmonton, Alberta. Ann Hepatol 2022; 23:100283. [PMID: 33217588 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2020.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION With the availability of direct-acting antivirals, Hepatitis C (HCV) is now considered a treatable disease. Patients who are co-infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and HCV represent an ideal patient population to treat for HCV, as (1) patients are routinely taking medication for HIV, and therefore would be able to complete HCV drug regimens, and (2) HIV infection has been shown to increase HCV disease progression. OBJECTIVE We sought to determine the occurrence of HCV co-infection among HIV patients in our provincial cohort, determine whether they received treatment for HCV, and identify currently viremic patients who can be linked to care. MATERIALS AND METHODS HCV laboratory testing data (HCV antibody and HCV RNA) and HCV medication dispensation data was collected for all HIV positive patients. Current and previous HCV infection and treatment was assessed. Chart reviews were conducted for HCV viremic patients to assess their HIV care and social determinants. RESULTS Of the 2417 HIV positive patients, 392 (16.2%) were identified as being co-infected with HCV. 198 (50.5%) of the HIV-HCV co-infected patients received HCV treatment and 232 (59.2%) were not viremic on the most recent HCV RNA test. 99 (69.2%) had a suppressed HIV infection suggesting they are active in their HIV care and good candidates for HCV treatment. CONCLUSION Despite the availability of direct-acting antivirals, many patients who are co-infected with HIV and HCV are not being treated for HCV. Routine surveillance of HIV-HCV co-infected patients could improve HCV treatment rates in a high-risk population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica M Round
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada; Public Health Laboratory, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Bohdan Savaryn
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Sabrina S Plitt
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada; Centre for Communicable Diseases and Infection Control, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Stephen D Shafran
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Carmen L Charlton
- Public Health Laboratory, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada; Division of Diagnostic and Applied Microbiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada; Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Martel-Laferrière V, Brissette S, Wartelle-Bladou C, Juteau LC, Popa M, Goyer MÈ, Bruneau J. Impact of an Accelerated Pretreatment Evaluation on Linkage-to-Care for Hepatitis C-infected Persons Who Inject Drugs. Subst Abuse 2022; 16:11782218221119068. [PMID: 35990750 PMCID: PMC9382068 DOI: 10.1177/11782218221119068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Background: Historically, hepatitis C virus (HCV) pretreatment evaluation has required multiple visits, frequently resulting in loss to follow-up and a delayed initiation of treatment. New technologies can accelerate this process. We investigated the feasibility of a single-day evaluation program and its impact on evaluation completion, treatment eligibility awareness, and treatment initiation among people who inject drugs (PWIDs). Methods: HCV-infected PWID who were unaware if they were eligible for treatment were recruited in a prospective evaluation of an accelerated model of care between 2017 and 2019 and compared to a historical cohort. The patients underwent a medical evaluation, rapid HCV viral load testing, and transient elastography during a single visit, at the end of which they were informed whether they were eligible for treatment. A historical cohort of patients fulfilling the same inclusion criteria and evaluated with the usual standard of care spanning several visits who were examined at the addiction medicine clinic from 2014 to 2016 served as the comparison group. Results: The accelerated and historical cohorts included 99 and 76 patients, respectively. The cohorts did not differ significantly by age and gender, but more patients in the historical cohort were undergoing opioid agonist therapy, while more patients in the accelerated cohort injected drugs in the last month. An accelerated evaluation resulted in a higher rate of evaluation completion (100% vs 67.1%; P < .001). Among those eligible for treatment, the proportion of those initiating treatment was similar between the groups (51/64 (79.7%) vs. 26/37 (70.3%); P = .28). The delay in the initiation of treatment was shorter in the accelerated cohort than in the historical cohort (69 (IQR: 49-106) days vs. 219 (IQR: 141-416) days; P < .001). Conclusions: Accelerated evaluation enhanced the awareness of eligibility and reduced the time to initiation among eligible patients. Trial Registration: This study is registered on www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT02755402).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valérie Martel-Laferrière
- Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Suzanne Brissette
- Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Claire Wartelle-Bladou
- Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Louis-Christophe Juteau
- Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Maria Popa
- Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Marie-Ève Goyer
- Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- CIUSSS du Centre-Sud de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Julie Bruneau
- Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Abdel Monem MS, Farid SF, Abbassi MM, Youssry I, Andraues NG, Hassany M, Selim YMM, El-Sayed MH. The potential hepatoprotective effect of metformin in hepatitis C virus-infected adolescent patients with beta thalassemia major: Randomised clinical trial. Int J Clin Pract 2021; 75:e14104. [PMID: 33617679 DOI: 10.1111/ijcp.14104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Iron overload-induced oxidative stress and transfusion-acquired hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection are the main reasons of liver damage in beta thalassemia major (β-TM). OBJECTIVES Based on metformin's hepatic benefits in nondiabetic populations, the study aims to investigate the safety and the potential hepatoprotective effect of metformin in HCV-infected β-TM adolescent patients. METHODS This was a prospective, randomised, parallel, controlled, open-label study in which 60 HCV-infected β-TM adolescent patients aged 11 to 18 years and receiving no antiviral therapy were selected and randomly assigned to treatment or control group in 1:1 allocation. Both groups were receiving β-TM standard-of-care regimen, whereas metformin (500 mg, twice daily) was added to the treatment group's regimen only. Patients were prospectively followed up for 6 months with assessment of liver biochemical profile, oxidative stress markers, liver fibrosis, clinical symptom improvement and metformin's adverse effects. RESULTS Aspartate aminotransferase serum level decreased significantly over time in the treatment group only (P = .013). However, improvement was not clinically significant and did not attain normality. Change in total antioxidant capacity and malondialdehyde serum levels indicated significantly improved oxidative stress status in the treatment group versus significant deterioration in the control group (P < .001). Fibrosis grade improvement was observed in 14 patients in the treatment group versus one improved case in the control group. CONCLUSION The use of metformin in HCV-infected β-TM adolescent patients as an adjuvant antioxidant hepatoprotective agent is promising and can improve liver damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mona S Abdel Monem
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Samar F Farid
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Maggie M Abbassi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ilham Youssry
- Pediatric Hematology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nevine G Andraues
- Department of Pediatrics and Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Hassany
- National Hepatology and Tropical Medicine Research Institute, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Yasmeen M M Selim
- Pediatric Hematology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Manal H El-Sayed
- Department of Pediatrics and Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Pericot-Valverde I, Heo M, Akiyama MJ, Norton BL, Agyemang L, Niu J, Litwin AH. Factors and HCV treatment outcomes associated with smoking among people who inject drugs on opioid agonist treatment: secondary analysis of the PREVAIL randomized clinical trial. BMC Infect Dis 2020; 20:928. [PMID: 33276738 PMCID: PMC7718688 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-020-05667-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cigarette smoking has emerged as a leading cause of mortality among people with hepatitis C virus (HCV). People who inject drugs (PWID) represent the largest group of adults infected with HCV in the US. However, cigarette smoking remains virtually unexplored among this population. This study aimed at (1) determining prevalence and correlates of cigarette smoking among HCV-infected PWID enrolled in opiate agonist treatment programs; (2) exploring the association of smoking with HCV treatment outcomes including adherence, treatment completion and sustained virologic response (SVR); and 3) exploring whether cigarette smoking decreased after HCV treatment. Methods Participants were 150 HCV-infected PWID enrolled in a randomized clinical trial primarily designed to test three intensive models of HCV care. Assessments included sociodemographics, presence of chronic health and psychiatric comorbidities, prior and current drug use, quality of life, and HCV treatment outcomes. Results The majority of the patients (84%) were current cigarette smokers at baseline. There was a high prevalence of psychiatric and medical comorbidities in the overall sample of PWID. Alcohol and cocaine use were identified as correlates of cigarette smoking. Smoking status did not influence HCV treatment outcomes including adherence, treatment completion and SVR. HCV treatment was not associated with decreased cigarette smoking. Conclusions The present study showed high prevalence of cigarette smoking among this population as well as identified correlates of smoking, namely alcohol and cocaine use. Cigarette smoking was not associated with HCV treatment outcomes. Given the detrimental effects that cigarette smoking and other co-occurring, substance use behaviors have on HCV-infected individuals’ health, it is imperative that clinicians treating HCV also target smoking, especially among PWID. The high prevalence of cigarette smoking among PWID will contribute to growing morbidity and mortality among this population even if cured of HCV. Tailored smoking cessation interventions for PWID along with HCV treatment may need to be put into clinical practice. Trial registration NCT01857245. Registered May 20, 2013.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irene Pericot-Valverde
- School of Health Research, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA.,Department of Medicine, Prisma Health, Greenville, SC, USA
| | - Moonseong Heo
- Department of Public Health Sciences, College of Behavioral, Social, and Health Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
| | - Matthew J Akiyama
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Brianna L Norton
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Linda Agyemang
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Jiajing Niu
- School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences, College of Science, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
| | - Alain H Litwin
- School of Health Research, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA. .,Department of Medicine, Prisma Health, Greenville, SC, USA. .,Department of Medicine, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Greenville, SC, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Hepatitis C reflex testing in Spain in 2019: A story of success. Enferm Infecc Microbiol Clin 2020; 39:119-126. [PMID: 32451150 DOI: 10.1016/j.eimc.2020.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 03/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reflex testing is necessary to achieve the objectives of hepatitis C elimination. However, in 2017 only 31% of Spanish hospitals performed reflex test. As a consequence of that finding, reflex testing was recommended by scientific societies involved in the diagnosis and treatment of hepatitis C. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the degree of implementation of reflex testing in 2019 and to know the implementation of rapid diagnostic and/or dried blood spot testing (RDT and / or DBS) in Spanish hospitals. METHODS Cross-sectional study through a survey conducted in October 2019 to Spanish general hospitals with at least 200 beds, public or private with teaching accreditation. RESULTS 129 (80%) hospitals responded. Reflex testing is performed by 89% of the centers vs. 31% in 2017 (P<.001). From 2017 to 2019, centers using alerts to improve continuity of care increased from 69% to 86% (P=.002). In 2019, 11% of centers can determine anti-HCV in dried spot, 15% viremia in dried spot, 0.85% anti-HCV in saliva, and 37% of antibodies and/or viremia with point of care test. 43% of hospitals have at least one diagnostic method with RDT and/or DBS. CONCLUSION The implementation of reflex testing has increased significantly, reaching 89% of hospitals in 2019. The recommendations of scientific societies could have contributed to the implementation of reflex testing. On the other hand, access to RDT and/or DBS is insufficient and initiatives are needed to improve their implementation.
Collapse
|
7
|
Crespo J, Eiros Bouza JM, Blasco Bravo AJ, Lázaro de Mercado P, Aguilera Guirao A, García F, García-Samaniego Rey J, Calleja Panero JL. The efficiency of several one-step testing strategies for the diagnosis of hepatitis C. REVISTA ESPANOLA DE ENFERMEDADES DIGESTIVAS 2020; 111:10-16. [PMID: 30561219 DOI: 10.17235/reed.2018.5810/2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND implementing one-step strategies for hepatitis C diagnosis would help shorten the time to treatment access. Thus avoiding disease progression and complications, while facilitating hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination. OBJECTIVE to assess the validity and certainty of potential one-step strategies for the diagnosis of HCV infection and their associated cost and efficiency. METHODS the study design is an economic appraisal of efficiency (cost/efficacy) using decision trees and deterministic sensitivity analysis. The analysis was performed from the payer perspective (Spanish National Health System), which exclusively considers the direct costs. Only the differential costs (diagnostic testing costs) were taken into account and the study was set in Spain. The efficacy of a diagnostic strategy was defined as the percentage of patients with an active HCV infection who received a positive diagnosis and the efficiency was defined as the cost per patient with a correctly diagnosed and active infection. RESULTS the one-step strategies evaluated for the diagnosis of HCV had an acceptable validity and certainty due to the high sensitivity and specificity of the considered tests. The Ab-Ag strategy was the most efficient, followed by Ab-Ag-VL and Ab-VL. Ab-Ag was the most efficient due to the lower cost per patient tested, although the efficacy was lower than the Ab-VL efficacy. CONCLUSION the study findings may help to establish more appropriate one-step diagnostic approaches whilst considering the efficacy and efficiency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Javier Crespo
- Servicio de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Universitario Marqués de Valdecilla, Santander
| | | | | | | | | | - Federico García
- Servicio de Microbiología, Hospital Universitario San Cecilio. Granada
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
El diagnóstico de la infección por el virus de la hepatitis C en España: una oportunidad para mejorar. Enferm Infecc Microbiol Clin 2019; 37:231-238. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eimc.2018.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2018] [Revised: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
|
9
|
Sølund C, Hallager S, Pedersen MS, Fahnøe U, Ernst A, Krarup HB, Røge BT, Christensen PB, Laursen AL, Gerstoft J, Bélard E, Madsen LG, Schønning K, Pedersen AG, Bukh J, Weis N. Direct acting antiviral treatment of chronic hepatitis C in Denmark: factors associated with and barriers to treatment initiation. Scand J Gastroenterol 2018; 53:849-856. [PMID: 29720023 DOI: 10.1080/00365521.2018.1467963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We describe factors associated with and barriers to initiation of Direct Acting Antiviral (DAA) treatment in patients with chronic hepatitis C, who fulfill national fibrosis treatment guidelines in Denmark. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this nationwide cohort study, we included patients with chronic hepatitis C from The Danish Database for Hepatitis B and C (DANHEP) who fulfilled fibrosis treatment criteria. Factors associated with treatment initiation and treatment failure were determined by logistic regression analyses. Medical records were reviewed from patients who fulfilled fibrosis treatment criteria, but did not initiate DAA treatment to determine the cause. RESULTS In 344 (49%) of 700 patients, who fulfilled treatment criteria, factors associated with DAA treatment initiation were transmission by other routes than injecting drug use odds ratio (OR) 2.13 (CI: 1.38-3.28), previous treatment failure OR 2.58 (CI: 1.84-3.61) and ALT above upper limit of normal OR 1.60 (CI: 1.18-2.17). The most frequent reasons for not starting treatment among 356 (51%) patients were non-adherence to medical appointments (n = 107/30%) and ongoing substance use (n = 61/17%). Treatment failure with viral relapse occurred in 19 (5.5%) patients, who were more likely to have failed previous treatment OR 4.53 (CI: 1.59-12.91). CONCLUSIONS In this nationwide cohort study, we found non-adherence to medical appointments and active substance use to be major obstacles for DAA treatment initiation. Our findings highlight the need for interventions that can overcome these barriers and increase the number of patients who can initiate and benefit from curative DAA treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christina Sølund
- a Department of Infectious Diseases , Copenhagen University Hospital , Hvidovre , Denmark.,b Copenhagen Hepatitis C Program (CO-HEP), Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Hvidovre and Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences , University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Sofie Hallager
- a Department of Infectious Diseases , Copenhagen University Hospital , Hvidovre , Denmark
| | - Martin S Pedersen
- b Copenhagen Hepatitis C Program (CO-HEP), Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Hvidovre and Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences , University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark.,c Department of Clinical Microbiology , Copenhagen University Hospital , Hvidovre , Denmark.,d Department of Science and Environment , Roskilde University , Roskilde , Denmark
| | - Ulrik Fahnøe
- b Copenhagen Hepatitis C Program (CO-HEP), Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Hvidovre and Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences , University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Anja Ernst
- e Department of Molecular Diagnostics , Aalborg University Hospital , Aalborg , Denmark
| | - Henrik B Krarup
- e Department of Molecular Diagnostics , Aalborg University Hospital , Aalborg , Denmark.,f Department of Medical Gastroenterology , Aalborg University Hospital , Aalborg , Denmark
| | - Birgit T Røge
- g Department of Medicine , Lillebaelt Hospital , Kolding , Denmark
| | - Peer B Christensen
- h Department of Infectious Diseases , Odense University Hospital , Odense , Denmark.,i Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Health Sciences , University of Southern Denmark , Odense , Denmark
| | - Alex L Laursen
- j Department of Infectious Diseases , Aarhus University Hospital , Skejby , Denmark
| | - Jan Gerstoft
- k Department of Infectious Diseases , Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet , Copenhagen , Denmark.,l Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences , University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Erika Bélard
- m Department of Gastroenterology , Copenhagen University Hospital , Herlev , Denmark
| | - Lone G Madsen
- l Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences , University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark.,n Department of Medical Gastroenterology , Zealand University Hospital , Køge , Denmark
| | - Kristian Schønning
- c Department of Clinical Microbiology , Copenhagen University Hospital , Hvidovre , Denmark.,l Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences , University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Anders G Pedersen
- o DTU Bioinformatics , Technical University of Denmark , Lyngby , Denmark
| | - Jens Bukh
- a Department of Infectious Diseases , Copenhagen University Hospital , Hvidovre , Denmark.,b Copenhagen Hepatitis C Program (CO-HEP), Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Hvidovre and Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences , University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Nina Weis
- a Department of Infectious Diseases , Copenhagen University Hospital , Hvidovre , Denmark.,l Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences , University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Outcome and adverse events in patients with chronic hepatitis C treated with direct-acting antivirals: a clinical randomized study. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2018; 30:1177-1186. [PMID: 29994874 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000001192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE New potent direct-acting antiviral (DAA) regimens against hepatitis C virus have been approved in recent years. However, information about the rate of adverse events (AEs) across different DAA regimens is limited. We aimed to evaluate differences in AEs and treatment efficacy in patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC), genotype (GT) 1 or 3, randomized to two different treatment arms, correspondingly. PATIENTS AND METHODS We randomly assigned 96 patients in a 1 : 1 ratio, to treatment for 12 weeks with either paritaprevir/ombitasvir/ritonavir/dasabuvir/ribavirin (RBV) or ledipasvir/sofosbuvir (SOF)/RBV if infected with GT1 (72 patients) or to daclatasvir/SOF/RBV for 12 weeks or SOF/RBV for 24 weeks, if infected with GT3 (24 patients). Data on AEs were collected throughout the entire study period. RESULTS A total of 70 (97%) patients with CHC with GT1 and 20 (83%) patients with GT3 achieved cure. The GT3 treatment arm was prematurely terminated, owing to change in national treatment guidelines. Thus, only AEs for GT1 patients are described. AEs occurred in 70 (97%) GT1 patients, and most common AEs were anemia (n=56/78%), fatigue (n=53/74%), and headache (n=33/46%). No difference was observed in relation to treatment group (P=1.0), anemia (P=1.0), or liver cirrhosis (P=0.53). In seven (11%) patients, AEs assessed by the investigator to be possibly related to the DAA regimen were still present 12 weeks after treatment. CONCLUSIONS We found no difference in AEs possibly related to the DAA regimen in patients with CHC, but surprisingly, AEs possibly related to the DAA regimen persisted in a significant number of patients after treatment. This finding can be of importance for clinicians in relation to patient information concerning AEs possibly related to DAA treatment.
Collapse
|
11
|
Simmons R, Ireland G, Irving W, Hickman M, Sabin C, Ijaz S, Ramsay M, Lattimore S, Mandal S. Establishing the cascade of care for hepatitis C in England-benchmarking to monitor impact of direct acting antivirals. J Viral Hepat 2018; 25:482-490. [PMID: 29239130 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.12844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Little is known about engagement and retention in care of people diagnosed with chronic hepatitis C (HCV) in England. Establishing a cascade of care informs targeted interventions for improving case finding, referral, treatment uptake and retention in care. Using data from the sentinel surveillance of blood-borne virus (SSBBV) testing between 2005 and 2014, we investigate the continuum of care of those tested for HCV in England. Persons ≥1 year old with an anti-HCV test and subsequent RNA tests between 2005 and 2014 reported to SSBBV were collated. We describe the cascade of care, as the patient pathway from a diagnostic test, referral into care, treatment and patient outcomes. Between 2005 and 2014, 2 390 507 samples were tested for anti-HCV, corresponding to 1 766 515 persons. A total of 53 038 persons (35 190 men and 17 165 women) with anti-HCV positive were newly reported to SSBBV. An RNA test was conducted on 77.0% persons who were anti-HCV positive, 72.3% of whom were viraemic (RNA positive) during this time period, 21.4% had evidence of treatment and 3130 49.5% had evidence of a sustained virological response (SVR). In multivariable models, confirmation of viraemia by RNA test varied by age and region/test setting; evidence of treatment varied by age, year of test and region/test setting; and SVR varied by age, year of test and region/setting of test. In conclusion, our findings provide HCV cascade of care estimates prior to the introduction of direct acting antivirals. These findings provide important baseline cascade estimates to benchmark progress towards elimination of HCV as a major public health threat.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R Simmons
- Immunisation, Hepatitis, and Blood Safety Department, Public Health England, London, UK.,The National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit (NIHR HPRU) in Blood Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections, University College London, London, UK
| | - G Ireland
- Immunisation, Hepatitis, and Blood Safety Department, Public Health England, London, UK.,The National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit (NIHR HPRU) in Blood Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections, University College London, London, UK
| | - W Irving
- Gastrointestinal and Liver Disorders Theme, NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre at the Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - M Hickman
- School of Social and Community Medicine, NIHR HPRU in Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - C Sabin
- The National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit (NIHR HPRU) in Blood Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections, University College London, London, UK.,Infection & Population Health, Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - S Ijaz
- The National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit (NIHR HPRU) in Blood Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections, University College London, London, UK.,Blood Borne Virus Unit, Public Health England, London, UK
| | - M Ramsay
- Immunisation, Hepatitis, and Blood Safety Department, Public Health England, London, UK
| | - S Lattimore
- Immunisation, Hepatitis, and Blood Safety Department, Public Health England, London, UK.,The National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit (NIHR HPRU) in Blood Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections, University College London, London, UK
| | - S Mandal
- Immunisation, Hepatitis, and Blood Safety Department, Public Health England, London, UK.,The National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit (NIHR HPRU) in Blood Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections, University College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Shuter J, Litwin AH, Sulkowski MS, Feinstein A, Bursky-Tammam A, Maslak S, Weinberger AH, Esan H, Segal KS, Norton B. Cigarette Smoking Behaviors and Beliefs in Persons Living With Hepatitis C. Nicotine Tob Res 2018; 19:836-844. [PMID: 27613890 DOI: 10.1093/ntr/ntw212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2016] [Accepted: 08/11/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Background and Rationale Tobacco use is common among persons living with hepatitis C (PLHC), yet little is known about their smoking behaviors and beliefs. Modern hepatitis C treatment offers a unique opportunity to intensively engage this population about other health risks, including smoking. Main Results Seventy-seven tobacco users (40 hepatitis C virus [HCV] seropositive and 37 HCV seronegative) enrolled in an interview study in a New York City clinic. The mean age was 51.6, 57.1% were male, 40.3% Latino, and 49.4% black. 67.5% were single and 18.2% were employed. HCV+ smokers differed from HCV- smokers in having a higher prevalence of illicit substance use, depression, and hypertension. PLHC smokers were highly motivated to quit, with 52.5% stating an intention to quit within 30 days. Most of the PLHC smokers had used cessation-directed pharmacotherapy, but almost none had tried a quitline or a quit smoking website. PLHC smokers scored higher on the intrapersonal locus of control subscale. Almost a quarter (22.5%) believed that smoking "helped fight the HCV." Conclusions PLHC smokers have a high burden of psychiatric and substance use comorbidity. They exhibit characteristics that distinguish them from uninfected smokers, and many harbor false beliefs about imagined benefits of smoking. They are highly motivated to quit but underutilize cessation aids. Without aggressive intervention, smoking-related morbidity will likely mute the health benefits and longevity gains associated with hepatitis C treatment. Research such as this may prove useful in guiding the development of future tobacco treatment strategies. Implications This is the first paper to examine, in detail, sociobehavioral correlates of tobacco use in PLHC. PLHC are recognized by the Department of Health and Human Services as a high-priority health disparities population. We are not aware of any tobacco treatment services designed specifically for PLHC. The first step in designing an intervention is defining the characteristics of the target group. Our findings will begin to address this need, and may prove useful in optimizing tobacco treatment strategies for smokers living with hepatitis C.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Shuter
- Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center and the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY
| | - Alain H Litwin
- Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center and the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY
| | - Mark S Sulkowski
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Addi Feinstein
- Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center and the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY
| | | | - Stephen Maslak
- Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center and the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY
| | - Andrea H Weinberger
- Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, Yeshiva University, Bronx, NY.,Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY
| | - Hannah Esan
- Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, Yeshiva University, Bronx, NY
| | - Kate S Segal
- Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, Yeshiva University, Bronx, NY
| | - Brianna Norton
- Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center and the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Vutien P, Jin M, Le MH, Nguyen P, Trinh S, Huang JF, Yu ML, Chuang WL, Nguyen MH. Regional differences in treatment rates for patients with chronic hepatitis C infection: Systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0183851. [PMID: 28877190 PMCID: PMC5587234 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0183851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2017] [Accepted: 08/12/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Treatment rates with interferon-based therapies for chronic hepatitis C have been low. Our aim was to perform a systematic review of available data to estimate the rates and barriers for antiviral therapy for chronic hepatitis C. METHODS We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis searching MEDLINE, SCOPUS through March 2016 and abstracts from recent major liver meetings for primary literature with available hepatitis C treatment rates. Random-effects models were used to estimate effect sizes and meta-regression to test for potential sources of heterogeneity. RESULTS We included 39 studies with 476,443 chronic hepatitis C patients. The overall treatment rate was 25.5% (CI: 21.1-30.5%) and by region 34% for Europe, 28.3% for Asia/Pacific, and 18.7% for North America (p = 0.008). On multivariable meta-regression, practice setting (tertiary vs. population-based, p = 0.04), region (Europe vs. North America p = 0.004), and data source (clinical chart review vs. administrative database, p = 0.025) remained significant predictors of heterogeneity. The overall treatment eligibility rate was 52.5%, and 60% of these received therapy. Of the patients who refused treatment, 16.2% cited side effects, 13.8% cited cost as reasons for treatment refusal, and 30% lacked access to specialist care. CONCLUSIONS Only one-quarter of chronic hepatitis C patients received antiviral therapy in the pre-direct acting antiviral era. Treatment rates should improve in the new interferon-free era but, cost, co-morbidities, and lack of specialist care will likely remain and need to be addressed. Linkage to care should even be of higher priority now that well-tolerated cure is available.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Philip Vutien
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University Medical Center, Palo Alto, California, United States of America
- Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Michelle Jin
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University Medical Center, Palo Alto, California, United States of America
| | - Michael H. Le
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University Medical Center, Palo Alto, California, United States of America
| | - Pauline Nguyen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University Medical Center, Palo Alto, California, United States of America
| | - Sam Trinh
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University Medical Center, Palo Alto, California, United States of America
| | - Jee-Fu Huang
- Hepatobiliary Section, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Lung Yu
- Hepatobiliary Section, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Wan-Long Chuang
- Hepatobiliary Section, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Mindie H. Nguyen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University Medical Center, Palo Alto, California, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Soriano V, Fernandez-Montero JV, de Mendoza C, Benitez-Gutierrez L, Peña JM, Arias A, Barreiro P. Treatment of hepatitis C with new fixed dose combinations. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2017. [PMID: 28644739 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2017.1346609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The advent of oral direct-acting antivirals (DAA) has revolutionized the hepatitis C virus (HCV) therapeutic landscape providing cure rates over 90%. However, a subset of patients remains at higher risk for treatment failure, including those infected with: i) genotype 3 and cirrhosis; ii) resistance-associated substitutions (RAS) occurring either as natural polymorphisms or selected after prior DAA failure; and iii) poor drug adherence associated with social disabilities (homeless, psychiatric illnesses, injection drug use, alcoholism, etc.). Whereas discovery of new DAA with increased antiviral activity across all genotypes and over RAS may enhance efficacy, development of fixed dose combinations (FDC) may be the best way to improve drug adherence in difficult-to-treat HCV populations. Areas covered: Three FDC regimens are in the last steps of clinical development for treating hepatitis C. Two distinct nucleotide analogues that inhibit the HCV polymerase, sofosbuvir and uprifosbuvir, are part of the FDC from Gilead and Merck, respectively. The AbbVie dual FDC does not include a polymerase inhibitor. All three new FDC include second-generation NS3 protease inhibitors and NS5A inhibitors active across all HCV genotypes and over common RAS. Expert opinion: Hepatitis C cure rates over 95% are expected with all three next-coming DAA, even in the most difficult-to-treat and/or cure patient populations. These regimens would be particularly needed for the growing number of prior DAA failures. Co-formulations and 8-week shorter treatment lengths will help to overcome drug adherence challenges in certain populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Soriano
- a Infectious Diseases Unit, La Paz University Hospital & Autonomous University , Madrid , Spain
| | - José V Fernandez-Montero
- b Department of Infectious Diseases , University Hospital Crosshouse , Kilmarnock , Scotland , United Kingdom
| | - Carmen de Mendoza
- c Department of Internal Medicine , Puerta de Hierro Research Institute , Majadahonda , Spain
| | - Laura Benitez-Gutierrez
- c Department of Internal Medicine , Puerta de Hierro Research Institute , Majadahonda , Spain
| | - José M Peña
- a Infectious Diseases Unit, La Paz University Hospital & Autonomous University , Madrid , Spain
| | - Ana Arias
- c Department of Internal Medicine , Puerta de Hierro Research Institute , Majadahonda , Spain
| | - Pablo Barreiro
- a Infectious Diseases Unit, La Paz University Hospital & Autonomous University , Madrid , Spain
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Soriano V, Benítez-Gutiérrez L, Arias A, Carrasco I, Barreiro P, Peña JM, de Mendoza C. Evaluation of sofosbuvir, velpatasvir plus voxilaprevir as fixed-dose co-formulation for treating hepatitis C. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2017; 13:1015-1022. [PMID: 28753040 DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2017.1359254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The fixed-dose combination of three direct-acting antivirals (DAA), namely sofosbuvir, velpatasvir and voxilaprevir is the first pangenotypic, single tablet regimen developed for the treatment of HCV infection. Areas covered: The pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, efficacy and safety of the co-formulation are reviewed. Information on drug absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion of each of the three antivirals is evaluated. Finally, antiviral activity, safety and potential for drug interactions in phase II/III clinical trials in distinct patient populations are discussed. Expert opinion: The triple co-formulation of sofosbuvir-velpatasvir-voxilaprevir represents a major step towards HCV eradication. It depicts high efficacy even in patients infected with viruses harboring resistance-associated substitutions (RAS), including those selected after DAA failures. Likewise, very high success rates and good tolerance are seen in special patient populations, including decompensated cirrhotics, HIV coinfection, organ transplantation or renal insufficiency. A pill once daily for 8 weeks gives SVR rates above 95%. In prior DAA failures, extending treatment to 12 weeks maximizes SVR rates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vicente Soriano
- a Infectious Diseases Unit , La Paz University Hospital & Autonomous University , Madrid , Spain
| | - Laura Benítez-Gutiérrez
- b Department of Internal Medicine , Puerta de Hierro Research Institute , Majadahonda , Spain
| | - Ana Arias
- b Department of Internal Medicine , Puerta de Hierro Research Institute , Majadahonda , Spain
| | - Itziar Carrasco
- b Department of Internal Medicine , Puerta de Hierro Research Institute , Majadahonda , Spain
| | - Pablo Barreiro
- a Infectious Diseases Unit , La Paz University Hospital & Autonomous University , Madrid , Spain
| | - Jose M Peña
- a Infectious Diseases Unit , La Paz University Hospital & Autonomous University , Madrid , Spain
| | - Carmen de Mendoza
- b Department of Internal Medicine , Puerta de Hierro Research Institute , Majadahonda , Spain
| |
Collapse
|