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Yu ML, Tai CM, Mo LR, Kuo HT, Huang CF, Tseng KC, Lo CC, Bair MJ, Wang SJ, Huang JF, Yeh ML, Chen CT, Tsai MC, Huang CW, Lee PL, Yang TH, Huang YH, Chong LW, Chen CL, Yang CC, Hung CH, Yang SS, Cheng PN, Hsieh TY, Hu JT, Wu WC, Cheng CY, Chen GY, Zhou GX, Tsai WL, Kao CN, Lin CL, Wang CC, Lin TY, Lin CL, Su WW, Lee TH, Chang TS, Liu CJ, Dai CY, Chen CY, Kao JH, Lin HC, Chuang WL, Peng CY. An algorithm for simplified hepatitis C virus treatment with non-specialist care based on nation-wide data from Taiwan. Hepatol Int 2024; 18:461-475. [PMID: 38246899 PMCID: PMC11014878 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-023-10609-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Both European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) and American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases and the Infectious Diseases Society of America (AASLD-IDSA) guidelines recommend simplified hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment with pan-genotypic sofosbuvir/velpatasvir or glecaprevir/pibrentasvir for eligible patients. This observational study used real-world data to assess these regimens' safety in eligible patients and develop an algorithm to identify patients suitable for simplified treatment by non-specialists. METHODS 7,677 HCV-infected patients from Taiwan Hepatitis C Registry (TACR) who received at least one dose of sofosbuvir/velpatasvir or glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, and fulfilled the EASL/AASLD-IDSA criteria for simplified treatment were analyzed. Multivariate analysis was conducted on patient characteristics and safety data. RESULTS Overall, 92.8% (7,128/7,677) of patients achieved sustained virological response and only 1.9% (146/7,677) experienced Grades 2-4 laboratory abnormalities in key liver function parameters (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and total bilirubin), with only 18 patients (0.23%) experiencing Grades 3-4 abnormalities. Age > 70 years old, presence of hepatocellular carcinoma, total bilirubin > 1.2 mg/dL, estimated glomerular filtration rate < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2, and Fibrosis-4 > 3.25 were associated with higher risks of Grades 2-4 abnormalities. Patients with any of these had an odds of 4.53 times than that of those without in developing Grades 2-4 abnormalities (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Real-world data from Taiwan confirmed that simplified HCV treatment for eligible patients with pan-genotypic regimens is effective and well tolerated. The TACR algorithm, developed based on this study's results, can further identify patients who can be safely managed by non-specialist care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Lung Yu
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Center of Excellence for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, National Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 70, Lianhai Rd, Gushan District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, 804
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, No. 100, Shihcyuan 1st Rd, Sanmin District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, 807
- Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine and Center for Liquid Biopsy and Cohort Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, No. 100, Shihcyuan 1st Rd, Sanmin District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, 807
- Division of Hepatogastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, No. 123, Dapi Rd, Niaosong District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, 833
| | - Chi-Ming Tai
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, No. 1, Section 1, Xuecheng Rd, Dashu District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, 840
- School of Medicine for International Students, College of Medicine, I-Shou University, No. 1, Section 1, Xuecheng Rd, Dashu District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, 840
| | - Lein-Ray Mo
- Division of Gastroenterology, Tainan Municipal Hospital (Managed By Show Chwan Medical Care Corporation), No. 670, Chongde Rd, East District, Tainan City, Taiwan, 701
| | - Hsing-Tao Kuo
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chi Mei Medical Center, No. 901, Zhonghua Rd, Yongkang District, Tainan City, Taiwan, 710
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, National Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 70, Lianhai Rd, Gushan District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, 804
| | - Chung-Feng Huang
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Center of Excellence for Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease, National Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 70, Lianhai Rd, Gushan District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, 804
- Ph.D. Program in Translational Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University and Academia Sinica, No. 128, Section 2, Academia Rd, Nangang District, Taipei City, Taiwan, 115
| | - Kuo-Chih Tseng
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, No. 2, Minsheng Rd, Dalin Township, Chiayi County, Taiwan, 622
- School of Medicine, Tzuchi University, No. 701, Section 3, Zhongyang Rd, Hualien City, Hualien County, Taiwan, 970
| | - Ching-Chu Lo
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, St. Martin De Porres Hospital, No. 60, Minquan Rd, East District, Chiayi City, Taiwan, 600
| | - Ming-Jong Bair
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taitung Mackay Memorial Hospital, No. 1, Lane 303, Zhangsha St, Taitung City, Taitung County, Taiwan, 950
- Mackay Medical College, No. 46, Section 3, Zhongzheng Rd, Sanzhi District, New Taipei City, Taiwan, 252
| | - Szu-Jen Wang
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yuan's General Hospital, No. 162, Chenggong 1st Rd, Lingya District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, 802
| | - Jee-Fu Huang
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, No. 100, Shihcyuan 1st Rd, Sanmin District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, 807
- Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine and Center for Liquid Biopsy and Cohort Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, No. 100, Shihcyuan 1st Rd, Sanmin District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, 807
| | - Ming-Lun Yeh
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, No. 100, Shihcyuan 1st Rd, Sanmin District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, 807
- Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine and Center for Liquid Biopsy and Cohort Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, No. 100, Shihcyuan 1st Rd, Sanmin District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, 807
| | - Chun-Ting Chen
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, No. 325, Section 2, Chenggong Rd, Neihu District, Taipei City, Taiwan, 114
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital Penghu Branch, National Defense Medical Center, No. 90, Qianliao, Magong City, Penghu County, Taiwan, 880
| | - Ming-Chang Tsai
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Department of Internal Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, No. 110, Section 1, Jianguo N Rd, South District, Taichung City, Taiwan, 402
| | - Chien-Wei Huang
- Division of Gastroenterology, Kaohsiung Armed Forces General Hospital, No. 2, Zhongzheng 1st Rd, Lingya District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, 802
| | - Pei-Lun Lee
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chi Mei Medical Center, No. 901, Zhonghua Rd, Yongkang District, Tainan City, Taiwan, 710
| | - Tzeng-Hue Yang
- Lotung Poh-Ai Hospital, No. 83, Nanchang St, Luodong Township, Yilan County, Taiwan, 265
| | - Yi-Hsiang Huang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, No. 201, Section 2, Shipai Rd, Beitou District, Taipei City, Taiwan, 112
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming Chiao Tung University, No. 155, Section 2, Linong St, Beitou District, Taipei City, Taiwan, 112
| | - Lee-Won Chong
- Division of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Shin Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan, 111
- School of Medicine, Fu-Jen Catholic University, No. 510, Zhongzheng Rd, Xinzhuang District, New Taipei City, Taiwan, 242
| | - Chien-Lin Chen
- Department of Medicine, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation and Tzu Chi University, No. 701, Section 3, Zhongyang Rd, Hualien City, Hualien County, Taiwan, 970
| | - Chi-Chieh Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Division of Internal Medicine, Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, No. 542, Section 1, Zhongshan Rd, Changhua City, Changhua County, Taiwan, 500
| | - Chao-Hung Hung
- Division of Hepatogastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, No. 123, Dapi Rd, Niaosong District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, 833
| | - Sheng-Shun Yang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, No. 1650, Section 4, Taiwan Boulevard, Xitun District, Taichung City, Taiwan, 407
| | - Pin-Nan Cheng
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, No. 1, Dasyue Rd, East District, Tainan City, Taiwan, 701
| | - Tsai-Yuan Hsieh
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, No. 325, Section 2, Chenggong Rd, Neihu District, Taipei City, Taiwan, 114
| | - Jui-Ting Hu
- Liver Center, Cathay General Hospital, No. 280, Section 4, Ren'ai Rd, Da'an District, Taipei City, Taiwan, 106
| | - Wen-Chih Wu
- Wen-Chih Wu Clinic, Fengshan, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, 830
| | - Chien-Yu Cheng
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, No. 1492, Zhongshan Rd, Taoyuan District, Taoyuan City, Taiwan, 330
- Institute of Public Health, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming Chiao Tung University, No. 155, Section 2, Linong St, Beitou District, Taipei City, Taiwan, 112
| | - Guei-Ying Chen
- Penghu Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, No. 10, Zhongzheng Rd, Magong City, Penghu County, Taiwan, 880
| | | | - Wei-Lun Tsai
- Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No. 386, Dazhong 1st Rd, Zuoying District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, 813
| | - Chien-Neng Kao
- National Taiwan University Hospital Hsin-Chu Branch, No. 25, Lane 442, Section 1, Jingguo Rd, North District, Hsinchu City, Taiwan, 300
| | - Chih-Lang Lin
- Liver Research Unit, Department of Hepato-Gastroenterology and Community Medicine Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Keelung, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, No. 222, Maijin Rd, Anle District, Keelung City, Taiwan, 204
| | - Chia-Chi Wang
- Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation and School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, No. 289, Jianguo Rd, Xindian District, New Taipei City, Taiwan, 231
| | - Ta-Ya Lin
- Cishan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, No. 60, Zhongxue Rd, Qishan District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, 842
| | - Chih-Lin Lin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Renai Branch, Taipei City Hospital, No. 10, Section 4, Ren'ai Rd, Da'an District, Taipei City, Taiwan, 106
| | - Wei-Wen Su
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Changhua Christian Hospital, No. 176, Zhonghua Rd, Changhua City, Changhua County, Taiwan, 500
| | - Tzong-Hsi Lee
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, No. 21, Section 2, Nanya S Rd, Banqiao District, New Taipei City, Taiwan, 220
| | - Te-Sheng Chang
- Division of Hepatogastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan and College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, No. 259, Wenhua 1st Rd, Guishan District, Taoyuan City, Taiwan, 333
| | - Chun-Jen Liu
- Hepatitis Research Center and Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, No. 1, Section 4, Roosevelt Rd, Da'an District, Taipei City, Taiwan, 106
| | - Chia-Yen Dai
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, No. 100, Shihcyuan 1st Rd, Sanmin District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, 807
- Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine and Center for Liquid Biopsy and Cohort Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, No. 100, Shihcyuan 1st Rd, Sanmin District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, 807
| | - Chi-Yi Chen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Ditmanson Medical Foundation Chiayi Christian Hospital, No. 539, Zhongxiao Rd, East District, Chiayi City, Taiwan, 600
| | - Jia-Horng Kao
- Hepatitis Research Center and Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, No. 1, Section 4, Roosevelt Rd, Da'an District, Taipei City, Taiwan, 106
| | - Han-Chieh Lin
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, No. 201, Section 2, Shipai Rd, Beitou District, Taipei City, Taiwan, 112
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming Chiao Tung University, No. 155, Section 2, Linong St, Beitou District, Taipei City, Taiwan, 112
| | - Wan-Long Chuang
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, No. 100, Shihcyuan 1st Rd, Sanmin District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, 807.
- Hepatitis Research Center, College of Medicine and Center for Liquid Biopsy and Cohort Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, No. 100, Shihcyuan 1st Rd, Sanmin District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, 807.
| | - Cheng-Yuan Peng
- Center for Digestive Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, No. 2, Yude Rd, North District, Taichung City, Taiwan, 404.
- School of Medicine, China Medical University, No. 91, Xueshi Rd, North District, Taichung City, Taiwan, 404.
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Yee WL, Bowring A, Draper B, O'Keefe D, Htay H, Myint KT, Aung HWP, Win YY, Sein YY, Mary M, Lin A, Pedrana A, Hellard M. Patients' access to and acceptance of community-based hepatitis C testing and treatment in Myanmar: A mixed-method study. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0000902. [PMID: 37327249 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C (HCV) infection elimination in low- and middle-income countries requires decentralised HCV services to increase testing and linkage to care. The CT2 Study investigated patients' views of access to and acceptance of two community-based HCV care models in Myanmar using a mixed-methods approach. Point-of-care HCV testing and general practitioner-initiated HCV treatment were provided at two community clinics in Yangon, Myanmar-the Burnet Institute's (BI) clinic focused on people who inject drugs (PWID), and the Myanmar Liver Foundation's (MLF) clinic focused on people with liver-related diseases. Study staff administered quantitative questionnaires to 633 participants receiving anti-HCV antibody testing. Purposive sampling was used to recruit 29 participants receiving direct-acting antiviral treatment for qualitative interviews. Among participants completing quantitative questionnaires, almost all reported the clinic location was convenient (447/463, 97%), waiting time was acceptable (455/463, 98%), and HCV antibody and RNA testing methods were acceptable (617/632, 98% and 592/605, 97% respectively). Nearly all participants were satisfied with their clinic's services (444/463, 96%) and preferred same-day test results (589/632, 93%). BI clinic participants were more confident that they understood HCV antibody and RNA results; MLF clinic participants were more comfortable disclosing their risk behaviour to staff and had slightly higher satisfaction with the overall care, privacy and secure storage of their information. In qualitative interviews, participants reported that flexible appointment scheduling, short wait times and rapid return of results increased the clinic's accessibility. The simplified point-of-care testing and treatment procedures and supportive healthcare providers contributed to participants' acceptance of the HCV care model. This decentralised community-based HCV testing and treatment model was highly accessible and acceptable to CT2 participants. Prioritizing patient-centred care, rapid provision of results, flexible appointments and convenient clinic locations can promote accessible and acceptable services which may in turn help accelerate progress in reaching HCV elimination targets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Bridget Draper
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Daniel O'Keefe
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Hla Htay
- Burnet Institute, Yangon, Myanmar
| | | | | | | | - Yi Yi Sein
- Myanmar Liver Foundation, Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Mary Mary
- Myanmar Liver Foundation, Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Aung Lin
- Myanmar Liver Foundation, Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Alisa Pedrana
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Margaret Hellard
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
- Doherty Institute and School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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3
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Hassan MRA, Chan HK, Nordin M, Yahya R, Sulaiman WRW, Merican SAA, Lah D, Sem X, Shilton S. Assessing feasibility of a modified same-day test-and-treat model for hepatitis C among rural people who inject drugs. Harm Reduct J 2023; 20:48. [PMID: 37046294 PMCID: PMC10091347 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-023-00780-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite advancements in hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment, low uptake among hard-to-reach populations remains a global issue. The current study aimed to assess the feasibility of a modified same-day test-and-treat model in improving HCV care for people who inject drugs (PWID) living in resource-constrained rural areas. METHODS A pilot study was conducted in four primary healthcare (PHC) centers in Malaysia. The model's key features included on-site HCV ribonucleic acid (RNA) testing using a shared GeneXpert® system; noninvasive biomarkers for cirrhosis diagnosis; and extended care to PWID referred from nearby PHC centers and outreach programs. The feasibility assessment focused on three aspects of the model: demand (i.e., uptake of HCV RNA testing and treatment), implementation (i.e., achievement of each step in the HCV care cascade), and practicality (i.e., ability to identify PWID with HCV and expedite treatment initiation despite resource constraints). RESULTS A total of 199 anti-HCV-positive PWID were recruited. They demonstrated high demand for HCV care, with a 100% uptake of HCV RNA testing and 97.4% uptake of direct-acting antiviral treatment. The rates of HCV RNA positivity (78.4%) and sustained virologic response (92.2%) were comparable to standard practice, indicating the successful implementation of the model. The model was also practical, as it covered non-opioid-substitution-therapy-receiving individuals and enabled same-day treatment in 71.1% of the participants. CONCLUSIONS The modified same-day test-and-treat model is feasible in improving HCV care for rural PWID. The study finding suggests its potential for wider adoption in HCV care for hard-to-reach populations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Huan-Keat Chan
- Clinical Research Center, Sultanah Bahiyah Hospital, 05460, Alor Setar, Kedah, Malaysia.
| | - Mahani Nordin
- Public Health Division, State Health Department, Alor Setar, Kedah, Malaysia
| | | | | | | | - Darisah Lah
- Bukit Tunggal Health Clinic, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
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Jiang N, Bruneau J, Makarenko I, Minoyan N, Zang G, Høj SB, Larney S, Martel-Laferrière V. HCV treatment initiation in the era of universal direct acting antiviral coverage - Improvements in access and persistent barriers. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2023; 113:103954. [PMID: 36758334 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2023.103954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Barriers to HCV treatment initiation persisted after the introduction of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) in Canada among people who inject drugs (PWID); whether DAA universal coverage lifted these barriers remain unknown. We assessed the evolution of HCV treatment initiation and associated factors among PWID in Montreal, Canada, comparing eras of IFN-based regimens (2011-2013), of DAA restricted access (2014-02/2018), and universal coverage (03/2018-03/2020). METHODS We included chronically HCV-infected participants followed in a community-based PWID cohort in Montreal, Canada between 2011 and 03/2020 and collected data at 3-month intervals. Time-updated Cox regressions were conducted to examine 9 variables of interest associated with treatment initiation overall and for each of the three eras. RESULTS Of 276 participants, 126 initiated treatment during follow-up. Yearly initiation increased from 3% in 2011 to 19% in 2016, and 54% in 2018. PWID aged >40 (vs. ≤40) were twice as likely to initiate treatment in 2014-02/2018 (HR: 2.02 95%CI: [1.24-3.28]) but not in other periods (2011-2013: 0.55 [0.25-1.22]; 03/2018-03/2020: 1.14 [0.59-2.22])). Odds of initiation were lower for men than women in all periods, with women three times more likely to be treated under universal coverage (0.30 [0.11-0.77] vs 2011-2013: 0.67 [0.25-1.78] and 2014-02/2018: 0.75 [0.42-1.35]). Recent incarceration was negatively associated with initiation throughout all periods (2011-2013: 0.57 [0.13-2.43]; 2014-03/2018: 0.39 [0.17-0.91]; 03/2018-03/2020: 0.25 [0.07-0.83]). Barriers associated with high injection frequency appear to have diminished since DAA introduction (2014-02/2018: 0.71 [0.42-1.20]; 03/2018-03/2020: 1.05 [0.52-2.11] vs. 2011-2013: 0.26 [0.08-0.88]). Contact with a primary care physician and engagement in opioid agonist therapy were positively associated with treatment initiation, though estimates were attenuated under universal coverage relative to previous eras. CONCLUSION Treatment initiation rates have increased since the introduction of universal DAA coverage, though barriers such as incarceration persist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Jiang
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), 900 rue St-Denis, Montréal, Québec, H2×0A9, Canada
| | - Julie Bruneau
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), 900 rue St-Denis, Montréal, Québec, H2×0A9, Canada; Département de Médecine Familiale et Médecine d'Urgence, Université de Montréal, C.P. 6128, succursale Centre-ville, Montréal, Québec, H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Iuliia Makarenko
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), 900 rue St-Denis, Montréal, Québec, H2×0A9, Canada; Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, 845 rue Sherbrooke Ouest, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 0G4, Canada
| | - Nanor Minoyan
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), 900 rue St-Denis, Montréal, Québec, H2×0A9, Canada; École de Santé Publique de l'Université de Montréal, 7101 Avenue du Parc, Montréal, Québec, H3N 1×9, Canada
| | - Geng Zang
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), 900 rue St-Denis, Montréal, Québec, H2×0A9, Canada
| | - Stine Bordier Høj
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), 900 rue St-Denis, Montréal, Québec, H2×0A9, Canada
| | - Sarah Larney
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), 900 rue St-Denis, Montréal, Québec, H2×0A9, Canada
| | - Valérie Martel-Laferrière
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), 900 rue St-Denis, Montréal, Québec, H2×0A9, Canada; Département de Microbiologie, Infectiologie et Immunologie, Université de Montréal, C.P. 6128, succursale Centre-ville, Montréal, Québec, H3C 3J7, Canada.
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Boeke CE, Adesigbin C, Adisa O, Agwuocha C, Akanmu MM, Anartati A, Aung KS, Azania A, Bello Nabe R, Budiman A, Chan Y, Chawla U, Fatchanuraliyah, Fernandes O, Grover GS, Naing TS, Ngo D, Ramers CB, Regan S, Sindhwani S, Tandy G, Tint K, Nguyen KV, Witschi M, McClure C. Patient outcomes in public sector hepatitis C treatment programmes: a retrospective cohort analysis across five low- and middle-income countries. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e062745. [PMID: 36576192 PMCID: PMC9723848 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-062745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Given limited data on factors associated with hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment discontinuation and failure in low- and middle-income countries, we aimed to describe patient populations treated for HCV in five countries and identify patient groups that may need additional support. DESIGN Retrospective cohort analysis using routinely collected data. SETTING Public sector HCV treatment programmes in India (Punjab), Indonesia, Myanmar, Nigeria (Nasarawa) and Vietnam. PARTICIPANTS 104 957 patients who initiated treatment in 2016-2022 (89% from Punjab). PRIMARY OUTCOMES Treatment completion and cure. RESULTS Patient characteristics and factors associated with outcomes varied across countries and facilities. Across all patients, median age was 40 years (IQR: 29-52), 30.6% were female, 7.0% reported a history of injecting drugs, 18.2% were cirrhotic and 4.9% were coinfected with HIV. 79.8% were prescribed sofosbuvir+daclastasvir. Of patients with adequate follow-up, 90.6% (89,551) completed treatment. 77.5% (69,426) of those who completed treatment also completed sustained virological testing at 12 weeks (SVR12), and of those, 92.6% (64 305) were cured. In multivariable-adjusted models, in most countries, significantly lower treatment completion was observed among patients on 24-week regimens (vs 12-week regimens) and those initiated in later years of the programme. In several countries, males, younger patients <20 years and certain groups of cirrhotic patients were less likely to complete treatment or be cured. In Punjab, treatment completion was also lower in those with a family history of HCV and people who inject drugs (PWID); in other countries, outcomes were comparable for PWID. CONCLUSION High proportions of patients completed treatment and were cured across patient groups and countries. SVR12 follow-up could be strengthened. Males, younger people and those with decompensated cirrhosis on longer regimens may require additional support to complete treatment and achieve cure. Adequate programme financing, minimal user fees and implementation of evidence-based policies will be critical to close gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Clement Adesigbin
- National AIDS/STIs Control Programme, Federal Ministry of Health, Abuja, FCT, Nigeria
| | | | | | | | | | - Khin Sanda Aung
- National Hepatitis Control Program, Department of Public Health, Ministry of Health, Naypyidaw, Myanmar
| | - Amy Azania
- Clinton Health Access Initiative, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Arief Budiman
- Clinton Health Access Initiative, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Yuhui Chan
- Clinton Health Access Initiative, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Fatchanuraliyah
- Directorate of Communicable Disease Prevention and Control, Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Oriel Fernandes
- Clinton Health Access Initiative, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Gagandeep Singh Grover
- State Viral Hepatitis Management Unit, Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of Punjab, Chandigarh, Punjab, India
| | | | - Dang Ngo
- Clinton Health Access Initiative, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | | | - Sean Regan
- Clinton Health Access Initiative, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Gertrudis Tandy
- Directorate of Communicable Disease Prevention and Control, Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Khin Tint
- Clinton Health Access Initiative, Yangon, Myanmar
| | | | | | - Craig McClure
- Clinton Health Access Initiative, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Suan MAM, Chan HK, Sem X, Shilton S, Hassan MRA. Diagnostic performance of two non-invasive biomarkers used individually and in sequential combination for cirrhosis associated with hepatitis C virus infection. Sci Rep 2022; 12:20153. [PMID: 36418369 PMCID: PMC9684447 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-24612-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
This cross-sectional study evaluated the performance of the Aspartate Aminotransferase-to-Platelet Ratio Index (APRI) and the Fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) Index when they were used individually and in sequential combination to diagnose cirrhosis associated with hepatitis C virus infection. The final evaluation involved 906 people living with hepatitis C. The diagnostic performance of individual biomarkers at cut-off scores of 1.5 and 2.0 for the APRI and at 3.25 for the FIB-4 index was assessed. For the sequential combination method, the cirrhosis status of individuals with an APRI score between 1.0 and 1.5 were reassessed using the FIB-4. Transient elastography (TE) was used as the reference standard for diagnosing cirrhosis. The APRI, at a cut-off score of 1.5, showed a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) of 44.9%, 97.6%, 91.1% and 76.3%, respectively. Increasing the cut-off score to 2.0 produced a much lower sensitivity (29.6%) and NPV (71.9%). The FIB-4, at a cut-off score of 3.25, yielded a sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV of 40.8%, 97.3%, 89.1% and 75.0%, respectively. The sequential combination method demonstrated a much more optimal diagnostic performance (50.2% sensitivity, 96.6% specificity, 89.0% PPV and 77.9% NPV). Overall, the APRI and FIB-4 Index performed better in diagnosing cirrhosis associated with hepatitis C when they were used in sequential combination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohd Azri Mohd Suan
- Clinical Research Centre, Hospital Sultanah Bahiyah, Ministry of Health, Alor Setar, Kedah, Malaysia
| | - Huan Keat Chan
- Clinical Research Centre, Hospital Sultanah Bahiyah, Ministry of Health, Alor Setar, Kedah, Malaysia
| | - Xiaohui Sem
- grid.452485.a0000 0001 1507 3147FIND, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Muhammad Radzi Abu Hassan
- grid.415759.b0000 0001 0690 5255Office of Deputy Director General, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Putrajaya, Malaysia
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Isfordink CJ, Smit C, Boyd A, de Regt MJA, Rijnders BJA, van Crevel R, Ackens RP, Reiss P, Arends JE, van der Valk M. Low hepatitis C virus-viremia prevalence yet continued barriers to direct-acting antiviral treatment in people living with HIV in the Netherlands. AIDS 2022; 36:773-783. [PMID: 34999607 DOI: 10.1097/qad.0000000000003159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe hepatitis C virus (HCV)-viremia prevalence and barriers to direct-acting antiviral (DAA) treatment during unrestricted access to DAA in a nationwide cohort of people with HIV (PWH). DESIGN Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data. METHODS We calculated yearly HCV-viremia prevalence as proportion of HCV RNA-positive individuals ever HCV-tested. We then included HCV-viremic individuals with ≥1 visit during the era of universal DAA-access (database lock = December 31, 2018). Based on their last visit, individuals were grouped as DAA-treated or -untreated. Variables associated with lack of DAA-treatment were assessed using targeted maximum likelihood estimation. In November 2020, physicians of DAA-untreated individuals completed a questionnaire on barriers to DAA-uptake and onward HCV-transmission risk. RESULTS Among 25 196 PWH, HCV-viremia decreased from 4% to 5% between 2000 and 2014 to 0.6% in 2019. Being DAA-untreated was associated with HIV-transmission route other than men who have sex with men, older age, infrequent follow-up, severe alcohol use, detectable HIV-RNA, HCV-genotype 3, and larger hospital size. With universal DAA-access, 72 of 979 HCV-viremic individuals remained DAA-untreated at their last visit. Of these, 39 were no longer in care, 27 remained DAA-untreated in care, and six initiated DAA since database lock. Most common physician-reported barriers to DAA-uptake were patient refusal (20/72, 28%) and infrequent visit attendance (19/72, 26%). Only one DAA-untreated individual in care was engaging in activities associated with onward HCV-transmission. CONCLUSIONS Prevalence of HCV-viremic PWH is low in the Netherlands, coinciding with widespread DAA-uptake. Barriers to DAA-uptake appear mostly patient-related, while HCV-transmission seems unlikely from the few DAA-untreated in care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cas J Isfordink
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam
| | | | - Anders Boyd
- Stichting HIV Monitoring, Amsterdam
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam
| | - Marieke J A de Regt
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis, Amsterdam
| | - Bart J A Rijnders
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section Infectious Diseases, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam
| | - Reinout van Crevel
- Department of Internal Medicine and Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen
| | - Robin P Ackens
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Reiss
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam
- Stichting HIV Monitoring, Amsterdam
| | - Joop E Arends
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht
| | - Marc van der Valk
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam
- Stichting HIV Monitoring, Amsterdam
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8
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Whiteley D, Speakman EM, Elliott L, Jarvis H, Davidson K, Quinn M, Flowers P. Developing a primary care-initiated hepatitis C treatment pathway in Scotland: a qualitative study. Br J Gen Pract 2022; 72:BJGP.2022.0044. [PMID: 35606160 PMCID: PMC9423057 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp.2022.0044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The ease of contemporary hepatitis C virus (HCV) therapy has prompted a global drive towards simplified and decentralised treatment pathways. In some countries, primary care has become an integral component of community-based HCV treatment provision. In the UK, however, the role of primary care providers remains largely focused on testing and diagnosis alone. AIM To develop a primary care-initiated HCV treatment pathway for people who use drugs, and recommend theory-informed interventions to help embed that pathway into practice. DESIGN AND SETTING A qualitative study informed by behaviour change theory. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with key stakeholders (n = 38) primarily from two large conurbations in Scotland. METHOD Analysis was three-stage. First, a broad pathway structure was outlined and then sequential pathway steps were specified; second, thematic data were aligned to pathway steps, and significant barriers and enablers were identified; and, third, the Theoretical Domains Framework and Behaviour Change Wheel were employed to systematically develop ideas to enhance pathway implementation, which stakeholders then appraised. RESULTS The proposed pathway structure spans broad, overarching challenges to primary care-initiated HCV treatment. The theory-informed recommendations align with influences on different behaviours at key pathway steps, and focus on relationship building, routinisation, education, combating stigmas, publicising the pathway, and treatment protocol development. CONCLUSION This study provides the first practicable pathway for primary care-initiated HCV treatment in Scotland, and provides recommendations for wider implementation in the UK. It positions primary care providers as an integral part of community-based HCV treatment, providing workable solutions to ingrained barriers to care.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Whiteley
- Department of Nursing and Community Health, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow
| | | | - Lawrie Elliott
- Department of Nursing and Community Health, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow
| | - Helen Jarvis
- Newcastle University, Newcastle; GP partner, the Bellingham Practice, Northumberland
| | | | | | - Paul Flowers
- School of Psychological Sciences and Health, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow
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Dale CH, Smith E, Biondi MJ. Nurse practitioners as primary care site champions for the screening and treatment of hepatitis C virus. J Am Assoc Nurse Pract 2022; 34:688-695. [PMID: 35066534 DOI: 10.1097/jxx.0000000000000689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary care providers are often the first point of contact for hepatitis C virus (HCV) care, yet treatment initiation in primary care continues to be low. Nurse practitioners (NPs) are autonomous providers who, in Ontario, currently prescribe HCV therapy; however, methods to engage primary care NPs in HCV care have not occurred. PURPOSE To assess the feasibility of a systematic approach to train and support NPs in HCV testing, care, and treatment. METHODOLOGY Nurse practitioners from Canada's largest family health team (FHT) were recruited. Nurse practitioners received six hours of training and develop approaches to screen and treat at FHT sites. Treatment algorithms were given, and the number and types of inquiries from NPs were recorded. RESULTS Over 1 year, 9 NPs screened 1,026 patients; 87.4% were screened based on the identification of a risk factor. A mail-out approach for birth cohort screening occurred at a single site, resulting in rapid uptake in screening. Antibody prevalence was 1.66%, with 76.5% RNA positivity. All RNA-positive treatment-eligible individuals were treated by an NP and completed treatment. Thirty-eight consults occurred over 1 year, the majority related to HCV or liver disease staging. CONCLUSIONS Formalized initiatives to engage and educate NPs lead to innovative strategies to test for HCV. Nurse practitioners can safely and effectively treat HCV in primary care with minimal support. IMPLICATIONS This work could be extrapolated to NPs in other primary care settings. Implementing formalized strategies has the potential to create NP leaders in the treatment and elimination of HCV in Ontario, Canada, and globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl H Dale
- Arthur Labatt Family School of Nursing, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Smith
- Arthur Labatt Family School of Nursing, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Thames Valley Family Health Team, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mia J Biondi
- Arthur Labatt Family School of Nursing, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Viral Hepatitis Care Network (VIRCAN) Study Group, Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Draper BL, Htay H, Pedrana A, Yee WL, Howell J, Pyone Kyi K, Naing W, Sanda Aung K, Markby J, Easterbrook P, Bowring A, Aung W, Sein YY, Nwe N, Myint KT, Shilton S, Hellard M. Outcomes of the CT2 study: A 'one-stop-shop' for community-based hepatitis C testing and treatment in Yangon, Myanmar. Liver Int 2021; 41:2578-2589. [PMID: 34153155 PMCID: PMC8596916 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the advent of low-cost generic direct-acting antivirals (DAA), hepatitis C (HCV) elimination is now achievable even in low-/middle-income settings. We assessed the feasibility and effectiveness of a simplified clinical pathway using point-of-care diagnostic testing and non-specialist-led care in a decentralized, community-based setting. METHODS This feasibility study was conducted at two sites in Yangon, Myanmar: one for people who inject drugs (PWID), and the other for people with liver disease. Participants underwent on-site rapid anti-HCV testing and HCV RNA testing using GeneXpert(R) . General practitioners determined whether participants started DAA therapy immediately or required specialist evaluation. Primary outcome measures were progression through the HCV care cascade, including uptake of RNA testing and treatment, and treatment outcomes. FINDINGS All 633 participants underwent anti-HCV testing; 606 (96%) were anti-HCV positive and had HCV RNA testing. Of 606 tested, 535 (88%) were RNA positive and had pre-treatment assessments; 30 (6%) completed specialist evaluation. Of 535 RNA positive participants, 489 (91%) were eligible to initiate DAAs, 477 (98%) completed DAA therapy and 421 achieved SVR12 (92%; 421/456). Outcomes were similar by site: PWID site: 91% [146/161], and liver disease site: 93% [275/295]). Compensated cirrhotic patients were treated in the community; they achieved an SVR12 of 83% (19/23). Median time from RNA test to DAA initiation was 3 days (IQR 2-5). CONCLUSIONS Delivering a simplified, non-specialist-led HCV treatment pathway in a decentralized community setting was feasible in Yangon, Myanmar; retention in care and treatment success rates were very high. This care model could be integral in scaling up HCV services in Myanmar and other low- and middle-income settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridget Louise Draper
- Disease Elimination ProgramBurnet InstituteMelbourneAustralia,School of Public Health and Preventive MedicineMonash UniversityMelbourneAustralia
| | | | - Alisa Pedrana
- Disease Elimination ProgramBurnet InstituteMelbourneAustralia,School of Public Health and Preventive MedicineMonash UniversityMelbourneAustralia,Health Services Research and ImplementationMonash PartnersMelbourneAustralia
| | | | - Jessica Howell
- Disease Elimination ProgramBurnet InstituteMelbourneAustralia,School of Public Health and Preventive MedicineMonash UniversityMelbourneAustralia,St Vincent’s Hospital MelbourneAustralia,Department of MedicineUniversity of MelbourneMelbourneAustralia
| | | | - Win Naing
- Myanmar Liver FoundationMyanmar,Yangon Specialty HospitalMyanmar
| | - Khin Sanda Aung
- National Hepatitis Control Program, Ministry of Health and SportsMyanmar
| | - Jessica Markby
- Foundation for Innovative New DiagnosticsGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Philippa Easterbrook
- Department of Global HIV, Hepatitis, and STI ProgrammesWorld Health OrganizationGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Anna Bowring
- Disease Elimination ProgramBurnet InstituteMelbourneAustralia
| | | | | | - Nwe Nwe
- Foundation for Innovative New DiagnosticsGenevaSwitzerland
| | | | | | - Margaret Hellard
- Disease Elimination ProgramBurnet InstituteMelbourneAustralia,School of Public Health and Preventive MedicineMonash UniversityMelbourneAustralia,Hepatitis Service, Department of Infectious DiseasesAlfred HospitalMelbourneAustralia,Doherty InstituteMelbourneAustralia,School of Population and Global HealthUniversity of MelbourneMelbourneAustralia
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11
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Anand A, Shalimar. Hepatitis C virus in India: Challenges and Successes. Clin Liver Dis (Hoboken) 2021; 18:150-154. [PMID: 34691402 PMCID: PMC8518332 DOI: 10.1002/cld.1137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Abhinav Anand
- Department of Gastroenterology and Human Nutrition UnitAll India Institute of Medical SciencesNew DelhiIndia
| | - Shalimar
- Department of Gastroenterology and Human Nutrition UnitAll India Institute of Medical SciencesNew DelhiIndia
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12
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Goodyear T, Brown H, Browne AJ, Hoong P, Ti L, Knight R. "Stigma is where the harm comes from": Exploring expectations and lived experiences of hepatitis C virus post-treatment trajectories among people who inject drugs. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2021; 96:103238. [PMID: 33902968 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2021.103238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The advent of direct-acting antiviral (DAA) medications has facilitated opportunities to treat hepatitis C virus (HCV) among people who inject drugs (PWID). However, there remains a need for data about how to optimally support PWID throughout DAA post-treatment trajectories, including with regard to re-infection prevention. The objective of this study is therefore to identify how PWID with lived experience of HCV describe their expectations and experiences related to health and social outcomes, contexts, and substance use practices following completion of DAA treatment. METHODS We thematically analyzed data from in-depth, semi-structured interviews, conducted between January and June 2018, in Vancouver, Canada, with a purposive sample (n = 50) of PWID at various stages of DAA treatment (e.g., pre, peri, post). RESULTS Our analysis yielded three themes. First, while participants had hoped to experience holistic enhancements in wellbeing following HCV cure, discussions of actual post-treatment experiences tended to be located in physical health (e.g., increased energy). Second, participants often pointed to the ways in which HCV-related and other stigmas had restricted opportunities for health and healthcare access. Participants therefore identified stigma-reduction as a key motivator of HCV cure, and while reductions in internalized stigma were sometimes achieved, participants underscored that other forms of enacted stigma (e.g., related to: substance use, HIV, poverty) had continued to feature prominently in their post-treatment lives. Third, participants described considerable knowledge about how to prevent HCV re-infection following cure, but they also expressed apprehensiveness about how socio-structural barriers, including stigma and criminalization, could interfere with harm reduction and re-infection prevention efforts. CONCLUSIONS DAAs are transforming the health and wellbeing of some PWID. Yet, HCV-related policy must extend beyond the scale-up of DAAs to include concerted public health investments, including anti-stigma efforts and improvements to the social welfare system, to meaningfully advance equity in PWID's post-treatment trajectories and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trevor Goodyear
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada; British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Helen Brown
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Annette J Browne
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Peter Hoong
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Lianping Ti
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Rod Knight
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.
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13
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Rojas SA, Godino JG, Northrup A, Khasira M, Tam A, Asmus L, Frenette C, Ramers CB. Effectiveness of a Decentralized Hub and Spoke Model for the Treatment of Hepatitis C Virus in a Federally Qualified Health Center. Hepatol Commun 2021; 5:412-423. [PMID: 33681676 PMCID: PMC7917265 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major cause of cirrhosis, liver cancer, and mortality in the United States. We assessed the effectiveness of decentralized HCV treatment delivered by nurse practitioners (NPs), primary care physicians (PMDs), or an infectious disease physician (ID MD) using direct-acting antivirals in a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) in urban San Diego, CA. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of 1,261 patients who received treatment from six NPs, 10 PMDs, and one ID MD practicing in 10 clinics between January 2014 and January 2020. Care was delivered based on the Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (Project ECHO) model with one hub and nine spokes. HCV was deemed cured if a patient had a sustained virologic response (SVR) after 12 weeks of treatment (SVR12). We evaluated differences in the prevalence of cure between provider types and hub or spoke status using Poisson regression. Patients were 34% Latino, 16% black, 63% were aged >50 years, and 59% were homeless; 53% had advanced fibrosis, 69% had genotype 1, and 5% were coinfected with human immunodeficiency virus. A total of 943 patients achieved SVR12 (96% per protocol and 73% intention to treat). Even after adjustment for demographics, resources, and disease characteristics, the prevalence of cure did not differ between the ID MD and PMDs (prevalence ratio [PR], 1.00; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.95-1.04) or NPs (PR, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.96-1.05). Similarly, there were no differences between the hub and spokes (PR, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.98-1.04). Conclusion: Among a low-income and majority homeless cohort of patients at urban FQHC clinics, HCV treatment administered by nonspecialist providers was not inferior to that provided by a specialist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A. Rojas
- Laura Rodriguez Research InstituteFamily Health Centers of San DiegoSan DiegoCA
- Institute of Public HealthSan Diego State University Research FoundationSan DiegoCA
| | - Job G. Godino
- Laura Rodriguez Research InstituteFamily Health Centers of San DiegoSan DiegoCA
- Center for Wireless and Population Health SystemsUniversity of California San DiegoLa JollaCA
| | - Adam Northrup
- Laura Rodriguez Research InstituteFamily Health Centers of San DiegoSan DiegoCA
| | - Maureen Khasira
- Laura Rodriguez Research InstituteFamily Health Centers of San DiegoSan DiegoCA
| | - Aaron Tam
- Laura Rodriguez Research InstituteFamily Health Centers of San DiegoSan DiegoCA
| | - Lisa Asmus
- Institute of Public HealthSan Diego State University Research FoundationSan DiegoCA
| | | | - Christian B. Ramers
- Laura Rodriguez Research InstituteFamily Health Centers of San DiegoSan DiegoCA
- Division of Infectious DiseasesDepartment of MedicineUniversity of California San DiegoLa JollaCA
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KC S, Murphy H, Dixit S, Rai A, Pradhan B, Lagrange-Xelot M, Karki N, Dureault A, Karmacharya U, Panthi S, Tulachan N, KC P, KC A, Rajbhandari R, Trotter AB, Gölz J, Pradat P, Trépo C, Creac'H P. Hepatitis C (HCV) therapy for HCV mono-infected and HIV-HCV co-infected individuals living in Nepal. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008931. [PMID: 33326423 PMCID: PMC7773414 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite direct-acting antivirals (DAA), aims to “eradicate” viral hepatitis by 2030 remain unlikely. In Nepal, an expert consortium was established to treat HCV through Nepal earthquakes aftermath offering a model for HCV treatment expansion in a resource-poor setting. Methodology/Principal findings In 2015, we established a network of hepatologists, laboratory experts, and community-based leaders at 6 Opioid Substitution Treatment (OST) sites from 4 cities in Nepal screening 838 patients for a treatment cohort of 600 individuals with HCV infection and past or current drug use. During phase 1, patients were treated with interferon-based regimens (n = 46). During phase 2, 135 patients with optimal predictors (HIV controlled, without cirrhosis, low baseline HCV viral load) were treated with DAA-based regimens. During phase 3, IFN-free DAA treatment was expanded, regardless of HCV disease severity, HIV viremia or drug use. Sustained virologic response (SVR) was assessed at 12 weeks. Median age was 37 years and 95.5% were males. HCV genotype was 3 (53.2%) or 1a (40.7%) and 32% had cirrhosis; 42.5% were HIV-HCV coinfected. The intention-to-treat (ITT) SVR rates in phase 2 and 3 were 97% and 81%, respectively. The overall per-protocol and ITT SVR rates were 97% and 85%, respectively. By multivariable analysis, treatment at the Kathmandu site was protective and substance use, treatment during phase 3 were associated with failure to achieve SVR. Conclusions/Significance Very high SVR rates may be achieved in a difficult-to-treat, low-income population whatever the patient’s profile and disease severity. The excellent treatment outcomes observed in this real-life community study should prompt further HCV treatment initiatives in Nepal. Despite very effective antiviral therapies, Hepatitis C virus (HCV) eradication remains a major challenge, especially in resource-limited countries. In Nepal, which ranks among the poorest countries in the world an expert consortium was established to treat HCV patients in six centers throughout the country. A cohort of 600 individuals with HCV infection and past or current drug use were treated using different treatment strategies over time. Very high treatment response rates were achieved in a difficult-to-treat, low-income population whatever the patient’s profile and disease severity and despite the severe 2015 earthquakes in Nepal. The excellent treatment outcomes observed in this real-life community study should prompt further HCV treatment initiatives in Nepal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudhamshu KC
- National Academy of Medical Sciences, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Holly Murphy
- Saint Joseph Mercy Ann Arbor Hospital, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Sameer Dixit
- Centre for Molecular Dynamics Nepal (CMDN), Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Apurva Rai
- Society of Positive Atmosphere and Related Support for HIV and AIDS, (SPARSHA-Nepal), Kathmandu, Nepal
| | | | | | - Niyanta Karki
- National Academy of Medical Sciences, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | | | - Ujjwal Karmacharya
- Society of Positive Atmosphere and Related Support for HIV and AIDS, (SPARSHA-Nepal), Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Santosh Panthi
- Centre for Molecular Dynamics Nepal (CMDN), Kathmandu, Nepal
| | | | - Prawchan KC
- Society of Positive Atmosphere and Related Support for HIV and AIDS, (SPARSHA-Nepal), Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Anjay KC
- Society of Positive Atmosphere and Related Support for HIV and AIDS, (SPARSHA-Nepal), Kathmandu, Nepal
| | | | - Andrew B. Trotter
- University of Illinois at Chicago, College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Jörg Gölz
- Praxiszentrum Kaiserdamm, Berlin, Germany
| | - Pierre Pradat
- Centre for Clinical Research, Croix-Rousse Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
- * E-mail:
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Nguyen HA, Cooke GS, Day JN, Flower B, Phuong LT, Hung TM, Dung NT, Khoa DB, Hung LM, Kestelyn E, Thwaites GE, Chau NVV, Turner HC. The direct-medical costs associated with interferon-based treatment for Hepatitis C in Vietnam. Wellcome Open Res 2020; 4:129. [PMID: 32734002 PMCID: PMC7372532 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.15408.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Injectable interferon-based therapies have been used to treat hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection since 1991. International guidelines have now moved away from interferon-based therapy towards direct-acting antiviral (DAA) tablet regimens, because of their superior efficacy, excellent side-effect profiles, and ease of administration. Initially DAA drugs were prohibitively expensive for most healthcare systems. Access is now improving through the procurement of low-cost, generic DAAs acquired through voluntary licenses. However, HCV treatment costs vary widely, and many countries are struggling with DAA treatment scale-up. This is not helped by the limited cost data and economic evaluations from low- and middle-income countries to support HCV policy decisions. We conducted a detailed analysis of the costs of treating chronic HCV infection with interferon-based therapy in Vietnam. Understanding these costs is important for performing necessary economic evaluations of novel treatment strategies. Methods: We conducted an analysis of the direct medical costs of treating HCV infection with interferon alpha (IFN) and pegylated-interferon alpha (Peg-IFN), in combination with ribavirin, from the health sector perspective at the Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, in 2017. Results: The total cost of the IFN treatment regimen was estimated to range between US$1,120 and US$1,962. The total cost of the Peg-IFN treatment regimen was between US$2,156 and US$5,887. Drug expenses were the biggest contributor to the total treatment cost (54-89%) and were much higher for the Peg-IFN regimen. Conclusions: We found that treating HCV with IFN or Peg-IFN resulted in significant direct medical costs. Of concern, we found that all patients incurred substantial out-of-pocket costs, including those receiving the maximum level of support from the national health insurance programme. This cost data highlights the potential savings and importance of increased access to generic DAAs in low- and middle-income countries and will be useful within future economic evaluations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Graham S. Cooke
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Jeremy N. Day
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Barnaby Flower
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
| | | | - Trinh Manh Hung
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
| | | | - Dao Bach Khoa
- Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
| | - Le Manh Hung
- Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
| | - Evelyne Kestelyn
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Guy E. Thwaites
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - SEARCH Investigators
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
| | - Hugo C. Turner
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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