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IA Okwor C, Petrosyan Y, Lee C, Cooper C. History of alcohol use does not predict HCV direct acting antiviral treatment outcomes. JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION OF MEDICAL MICROBIOLOGY AND INFECTIOUS DISEASE CANADA = JOURNAL OFFICIEL DE L'ASSOCIATION POUR LA MICROBIOLOGIE MEDICALE ET L'INFECTIOLOGIE CANADA 2022; 7:233-241. [PMID: 36337601 PMCID: PMC9629724 DOI: 10.3138/jammi-2021-0037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and excessive alcohol consumption are leading causes of liver disease worldwide. Direct acting antivirals (DAAs) are well-tolerated treatments for HCV infections with high sustained virologic response (SVR) rates. There are limited data assessing the influence of alcohol use on DAA uptake and cure. METHODS We performed a retrospective analysis of patients followed at The Ottawa Hospital Viral Hepatitis Program between January 2014 and May 2020 to investigate the effect of excessive alcohol use history on DAA uptake and SVR rates. Additionally, we evaluated the incidence of concurrent comorbidities and social determinants of health. Predictors of DAA uptake and SVR were assessed by logistic regression. RESULTS Excessive alcohol use history was reported in 46.0% (733) of patients. Excessive alcohol use did not predict DAA uptake (OR 1.06, 95% CI 0.71 to 1.57), while employment (OR 2.10, 95% CI 1.29 to 3.42) and recreational drug use (OR 0.62, 95% CI 0.40 to 0.94) were predictors. Employment predicted SVR (OR 2.38, 95% CI 1.68 to 3.36) in those starting treatment. Excessive alcohol use history did not predict SVR. CONCLUSIONS History of excessive alcohol use does not influence treatment initiation or SVR. Efforts to improve treatment uptake should shift to focus on the roles of determinants of health such as employment and recreational drug use on treatment initiation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Craig Lee
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Curtis Cooper
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Llamosas-Falcón L, Shield KD, Gelovany M, Hasan OSM, Manthey J, Monteiro M, Walsh N, Rehm J. Impact of alcohol on the progression of HCV-related liver disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Hepatol 2021; 75:536-546. [PMID: 33892007 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2021.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2020] [Revised: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Despite a marked reduction in new cases of cirrhosis caused by HCV infection, over 500,000 new cirrhosis cases in this category were estimated globally in 2019. This contribution quantifies the relationship between alcohol use and the progression of liver disease in people with HCV infections. METHODS The causal impact of different levels of alcohol use on cirrhosis has previously been established. The quantification of this relationship was undertaken based on a systematic search of the literature and a meta-analysis. We limited our search to longitudinal and case-control studies with biologically verified outcomes. Different sensitivity analyses were conducted to check on key assumptions and on the generalizability of the relationship. RESULTS Alcohol use has a dose-dependent relationship with incident cirrhosis, which is linear on the log-linear level, and thus exponential on the level of odds ratios or other risk indicators. Each standard drink of 12 grams of pure alcohol per day increases the risk by about 11%. The results were stable regardless of the statistical model used, level of adjustment, quality of the study, or outcome (i.e., cirrhosis, decompensated cirrhosis, liver-related death). CONCLUSIONS Alcohol use has a marked impact on the progression of HCV infections to cirrhosis and more severe liver outcomes. LAY SUMMARY Alcohol consumption has a significant impact on the progression of liver disease in people with HCV infections. Each alcoholic drink per day is associated with an increase in the risk of cirrhosis of 11%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Llamosas-Falcón
- Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Avda de Córdoba s/n, 28041 - Madrid, Spain; Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5S 2S1
| | - Kevin D Shield
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5S 2S1; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5T 1P8, Canada; World Health Organization / Pan American Health Organization Collaborating Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Ursula Franklin Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5S 2S1
| | - Maya Gelovany
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5S 2S1
| | - Omer S M Hasan
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5S 2S1; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5T 1P8, Canada
| | - Jakob Manthey
- Center for Interdisciplinary Addiction Research (ZIS), Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Martinistraße 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; Institute of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy & Center of Clinical Epidemiology and Longitudinal Studies (CELOS), Technische Universität Dresden, Chemnitzer Str. 46, 01187 Dresden, Germany; Department of Psychiatry, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Semmelweisstraße 10, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Maristela Monteiro
- Pan American Health Organization/ WHO Regional Office for the Americas, 525 23rd St, Washington DC 20037, USA
| | - Nick Walsh
- Pan American Health Organization/ WHO Regional Office for the Americas, 525 23rd St, Washington DC 20037, USA
| | - Jürgen Rehm
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5S 2S1; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5T 1P8, Canada; World Health Organization / Pan American Health Organization Collaborating Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Ursula Franklin Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5S 2S1; Center for Interdisciplinary Addiction Research (ZIS), Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Martinistraße 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; Institute of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy & Center of Clinical Epidemiology and Longitudinal Studies (CELOS), Technische Universität Dresden, Chemnitzer Str. 46, 01187 Dresden, Germany; Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Russell Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5T 2S1; Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Medical Sciences Building, 1 King's College Circle, Room 2374, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5S 1A8; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, 250 College Street, 8th Floor, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5T 1R8; Department of International Health Projects, Institute for Leadership and Health Management, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Trubetskaya str., 8, b. 2, 119992, Moscow, Russian Federation.
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Sims OT, Wang K, Chandler R, Melton PA, Truong DN. A descriptive analysis of concurrent alcohol and substance use among patients living with HIV/HCV co-infection. SOCIAL WORK IN HEALTH CARE 2020; 59:525-541. [PMID: 32873213 PMCID: PMC9494867 DOI: 10.1080/00981389.2020.1814938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
The objectives of this study were to estimate the prevalence of concurrent alcohol and substance use among patients living with HIV/HCV co-infection and to compare demographic and clinical characteristics of those with concurrent alcohol and substance to those with alcohol or substance use, and to those who were abstinent. We conducted an analysis of patient reported outcomes data of patients living with HIV/HCV co-infection (n = 327) who transitioned from primary care to sub-specialty care for evaluation of candidacy for HCV treatment at a university-affiliated HIV Clinic. The prevalence of self-reported concurrent alcohol and substance use was 33%. A higher proportion of those with concurrent alcohol and substance use were currently smoking tobacco, and those who were abstinent had higher ratings of health-related quality of life compared to those with alcohol or substance use. To reduce patients' risk for progression to advanced stages of HIV, HCV, and liver-related disease due to continued alcohol and substance and tobacco use, social workers and other health care professionals are encouraged to develop and implement intervention strategies to assist patients living with HIV/HCV co-infection in efforts to achieve behavioral change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar T Sims
- Department of Social Work, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham , Birmingham, AL, USA
- Department of Health Behavior, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham , Birmingham, AL, USA
- Integrative Center for Healthy Aging, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham , Birmingham, AL, USA
- Center for AIDS Research, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham , Birmingham, AL, USA
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco , San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kaiying Wang
- Department of Health Behavior, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham , Birmingham, AL, USA
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, College of Arts and Sciences, Georgia State University , Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Rasheeta Chandler
- Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, Division of Prevention Science, Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco , San Francisco, CA, USA
- School of Nursing, Emory University , Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Pamela A Melton
- School of Social Work, Tulane University , New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Duong N Truong
- Department of Health Care Organization and Policy, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham , Birmingham, AL, USA
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Sims OT, Oh H, Pollio DE, Hong BA, Pollio EW, North CS. Quality of Life, Functioning, and Coping in HCV Patients Continuing Versus Ceasing Alcohol Use. Health Promot Pract 2019; 21:1012-1017. [PMID: 30895814 DOI: 10.1177/1524839919837968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to compare quality of life, functioning, and coping among hepatitis C virus (HCV) patients who continued versus ceased alcohol use in the past year. HCV patients (n = 291) were recruited from three liver and infectious disease clinics. Student's t test was used to compare HCV patients who were former and active users of alcohol. The majority of HCV patients were male, African American, and without a high school degree. Compared to former users of alcohol, active users of alcohol self-reported lower ratings on home life, personal leisure, and overall quality of life. In the area of functioning, active users of alcohol self-reported lower ratings on home life, close relationships, sex life, and overall functioning. The two groups did not differ on coping. Most HCV clinicians advise HCV patients to avoid alcohol completely because of its adverse biological effects on the liver. Despite this important advice by their HCV clinicians, most HCV patients continue to use alcohol. HCV clinicians can additionally consider advising these patients that continued alcohol use is associated with lower quality of life and functioning as further evidence to convince these patients to avoid alcohol or to participate in alcohol cessation treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar T Sims
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.,University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Hyejung Oh
- California State University, Bakersfield, CA, USA
| | - David E Pollio
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Barry A Hong
- Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Carol S North
- The Altshuler Center for Education & Research at Metrocare Services, Dallas, TX, USA.,University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
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Asana OO, Ayvaci ER, Pollio DE, Hong BA, North CS. Associations of alcohol use disorder, alcohol use, housing, and service use in a homeless sample of 255 individuals followed over 2 years. Subst Abus 2018; 39:497-504. [PMID: 29595364 DOI: 10.1080/08897077.2018.1449169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Homeless individuals with alcohol use disorders have multiple comorbidities and therefore various service needs. Despite need for services, homeless individuals face numerous barriers to treatment. Little is known about the associations of specific services in relation to homelessness in the context of alcohol problems. The current study analyzed 2-year prospective longitudinal data on a homeless sample, examining relationships between alcohol use disorder, alcohol use, housing status, and service use over time. METHODS Two hundred fifty-five of 400 individuals recruited systematically from shelters and street locations completed 3 annual assessments (69% completion). Data on lifetime and current psychiatric disorders, housing status, and past-year service use were obtained and merged with service use data gathered from local agencies. Generalized estimating equation (GEE) models were created to predict dependent outcome variables of stable housing, alcohol use, and service use in both follow-up years. RESULTS Lifetime alcohol use disorder was positively associated with substance and medical service use. Alcohol problems did not hinder attainment of stable housing, and placement in housing did not necessarily increase risk for alcohol use. Stable housing was negatively associated with psychiatric and substance service use. In the second year, when alcohol use was finally associated with receiving substance services, it appears that these services provided a gateway to psychiatric services. The psychiatric services in turn appeared to provide a gateway to medical services. CONCLUSIONS Alcohol use behaved differently compared with lifetime alcohol use disorder in relation to service use. Lack of association between alcohol use and housing supports Housing First policy. Obtaining housing may have ameliorative effects on mental health, diminishing perceived need for psychiatric services. Services may also be more accessible during homelessness. Obtaining substance treatment may provide a gateway for those who use alcohol after becoming homeless to connect with psychiatric and medical services, informing policy and practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olubunmi O Asana
- a Department of Psychiatry , New York University Langone Health , New York , New York , USA
| | - Emine R Ayvaci
- b Department of Psychiatry , The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center , Dallas , Texas , USA
| | - David E Pollio
- c Department of Social Work , The University of Alabama at Birmingham , Birmingham , Alabama , USA
| | - Barry A Hong
- d Department of Psychiatry , Washington University School of Medicine , St. Louis , Missouri , USA
| | - Carol S North
- b Department of Psychiatry , The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center , Dallas , Texas , USA.,e The Altshuler Center for Education & Research , Metrocare Services , Dallas , Texas , USA
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Owens MD, Ioannou GN, Tsui JL, Edelman EJ, Greene PA, Williams EC. Receipt of alcohol-related care among patients with HCV and unhealthy alcohol use. Drug Alcohol Depend 2018; 188:79-85. [PMID: 29754030 PMCID: PMC5999587 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2018.03.047] [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: 08/21/2017] [Revised: 03/20/2018] [Accepted: 03/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol use-particularly unhealthy alcohol use-exacerbates risks associated with Hepatitis C virus (HCV). However, whether unhealthy alcohol use is appropriately addressed among HCV+ patients is understudied. We examined receipt of alcohol-related care among HCV+ patients and unhealthy alcohol use. METHODS All positive alcohol screens (AUDIT-C score ≥5) documented 10/01/09-5/30/13 were identified from national electronic health records data from the Veterans Health Administration (VA). Regression models estimated unadjusted and adjusted proportions of HCV+ and HCV- patients receiving 1) brief intervention within 14 days of positive screening, 2) specialty addictions treatment, and 3) pharmacotherapy for alcohol use disorder (AUD) in the year following positive screening. Adjusted models included demographics, alcohol use severity, and mental health and substance use disorder comorbidities. RESULTS Among 830,825 VA outpatients with positive alcohol screening, 31,841 were HCV+. Among HCV+, unadjusted and adjusted prevalences were 69.2% (CI, 68.7-69.6) and 71.9% (CI, 71.4-72.4) for brief intervention, 29.9% (CI, 29.4-30.4) and 12.7% (CI 12.5-12.9) for specialty addictions treatment, and 5.9% (CI, 5.7-6.1) and 3.3% (CI, 3.1-3.4) for pharmacotherapy, respectively. Among the 20,320 (64%) patients with HCV and documented AUD, unadjusted and adjusted prevalences were 40.0% (CI, 39.3-40.6) and 26.7% (CI, 26.3-27.1) for specialty addictions treatment and 8.1% (CI, 7.7-8.4) and 6.4% (CI, 6.1-6.6) for pharmacotherapy, respectively. Receipt of alcohol-related care was generally similar across HCV status. CONCLUSIONS Findings highlight under-receipt of recommended alcohol-related care, particularly pharmacotherapy, among patients with HCV and unhealthy alcohol use who are particularly vulnerable to adverse influences of alcohol use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandy D. Owens
- Health Services Research & Development (HSR&D) Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Health Care System, Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered Value-Driven Care (COIN) Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA,Department of Health Services, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - George N. Ioannou
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA
| | - Judith L. Tsui
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA
| | | | - Preston A. Greene
- Health Services Research & Development (HSR&D) Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Health Care System, Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered Value-Driven Care (COIN) Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA
| | - Emily C. Williams
- Health Services Research & Development (HSR&D) Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Health Care System, Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered Value-Driven Care (COIN) Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA,Department of Health Services, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
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Sundberg I, Lannergård A, Ramklint M, Cunningham JL. Direct-acting antiviral treatment in real world patients with hepatitis C not associated with psychiatric side effects: a prospective observational study. BMC Psychiatry 2018; 18:157. [PMID: 29843679 PMCID: PMC5975521 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-018-1735-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatment of Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has evolved from interferon (IFN)-based treatments to direct-acting antivirals (DAAs). Patients with HCV have an elevated psychiatric morbidity (including substance abuse) and patients with such comorbidity have often been excluded from treatment with IFN. To date, little is known about psychiatric adverse effects of DAA-based regimens. We therefore aimed to study the psychiatric side effects of new IFN-free treatment for HCV (including depressive symptoms and sleep) in real world patients also including those with a history of psychiatric diagnosis, substance abuse or drug dependence. METHODS Consecutive patients were monitored during treatment with three of the latest DAA agents (sofosbuvir, simeprevir and daclatasvir). Repeated expert psychiatric assessments from baseline to 12 weeks post-treatment were performed with the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis I Disorders (SCID-I) clinical version and the self-report versions of the Montgomery Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS-S) and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Friedman's test was performed to calculate differences in the MADRS-S and PSQI over time. In a post-hoc analysis Wilcoxon's test was used to compare baseline depressive symptoms with those at post-treatment. Spearman's rank correlation test was conducted in another post-hoc analysis to evaluate the correlation between symptoms of depression and HCV viral load at baseline. RESULTS At baseline, 15/17 patients (88%) had a history of any psychiatric diagnosis; 11 (65%) had a history of substance abuse or dependence; and 11 (65%) had previously been treated with IFN and six of those had experienced psychiatric side effects. There was no correlation between depressive symptoms and HCV viral load at baseline. Symptoms of depression did not increase during DAA treatment and were lower 12 weeks post-treatment compared with baseline: MADRS-S 10.7 vs. 8.3 (p = 0.01). This observation held when excluding patients taking antidepressant medication. Sleep quality did not significantly change during treatment. Adherence to treatment was estimated to 95% and sustained virological response was 88%. CONCLUSIONS Despite high psychiatric morbidity, including previous substance abuse, patients successfully completed DAA treatment without increasing depressive symptoms or sleep disturbance. Symptoms of depression were significantly reduced 12 weeks after DAA treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isak Sundberg
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychiatry, Uppsala University Hospital, Entrance 10, Floor 3B, 751 85, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Anders Lannergård
- 0000 0001 2351 3333grid.412354.5Department of Medical Sciences, Section of Infectious Diseases, Uppsala University Hospital, Entrance 34, Floor 2, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mia Ramklint
- 0000 0001 2351 3333grid.412354.5Department of Neuroscience, Psychiatry, Uppsala University Hospital, Entrance 10, Floor 3B, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Janet L. Cunningham
- 0000 0001 2351 3333grid.412354.5Department of Neuroscience, Psychiatry, Uppsala University Hospital, Entrance 10, Floor 3B, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C (HCV) is more prevalent in African Americans than in any other racial group in the United States. However, African Americans are more likely to be deemed ineligible for HCV treatment than non-African Americans. There has been limited research into the origins of racial disparities in HCV treatment eligibility. AIM The purpose of this study was to compare medical and non-medical characteristics commonly assessed in clinical practice that could potentially contribute to HCV treatment ineligibility disparities between African American and non-African American patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS Patients with confirmed HCV RNA considering treatment (n = 309) were recruited from university-affiliated and VA liver and infectious disease clinics. RESULTS African Americans and non-African Americans did not differ in prevalence of lifetime and current psychiatric disorders and risky behaviors, and HCV knowledge. HCV clinical characteristics were similar between both groups in terms of HCV exposure history, number of months aware of HCV diagnosis, stage of fibrosis, and HCV virologic levels. African Americans did have higher proportions of diabetes, renal disease, and bleeding ulcer. CONCLUSIONS No clinical evidence was found to indicate that African Americans should be more often deemed ineligible for HCV treatment than other racial groups. Diabetes and renal disease do not fully explain the HCV treatment ineligibility racial disparity, because HCV patients with these conditions are priority patients for HCV treatment because of their greater risk for cirrhosis, steatosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The findings suggest that an underlying contributor to the HCV treatment eligibility disparity disfavoring African Americans could be racial discrimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Sims
- Department of Social Work, College of Arts and Sciences. † Department of Health Behavior, School of Public Health. The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - David Pollio
- Department of Social Work, College of Arts and Sciences. † Department of Health Behavior, School of Public Health. The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Barry Hong
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Carol North
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
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North CS, Pollio DE, Sims OT, Jain MK, Hong BA. Prospective Longitudinal Substance Use Patterns in Patients Preparing for Hepatitis C Treatment. J Dual Diagn 2018; 14:60-69. [PMID: 29035169 PMCID: PMC6072267 DOI: 10.1080/15504263.2017.1380246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study prospectively examined the independent courses of alcohol, drugs, and smoking over 18 months in 154 patients preparing for hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment in relation to functioning, negative coping, and satisfaction with quality of life in data collected from a randomized controlled trial of multiple-family group psychoeducation for patients preparing for HCV treatment. Patients with HCV who had consistent abstinence, consistent use, or achievement of abstinence after study entry were examined for outcomes pertaining to functioning in the context of HCV, negative coping, and satisfaction with quality of life. METHODS Of 309 patients considering treatment for HCV recruited from outpatient clinics at two major university medical centers and a Veterans Affairs medical center for a randomized controlled trial of a psychoeducation intervention, 154 completed baseline, 6-month, and 18-month assessments. The assessments included structured diagnostic interviews; questionnaires examining functioning, coping, and satisfaction with quality of life; medical record review; and urine testing for substances of abuse. For these analyses, substance use patterns were determined as consistent abstinence, consistent use, and achieving abstinence after study entry for alcohol and drug use and smoking. RESULTS The entire sample generally improved in all of these three outcomes over the course of the study. The course of alcohol, drugs, and smoking predicted HCV-related functioning, negative coping, and satisfaction with quality-of-life outcomes over 18 months. Three specific patterns of use (consistent abstinence, consistent use, and achievement of abstinence after study entry) of these substances diverged in association with outcomes related to functioning, negative coping, and satisfaction with quality of life, not only across trajectories over time within substance types but also among types of substances. CONCLUSIONS This study's finding that different substances were associated with distinct clinical outcomes suggests the need to conceptually unbundle different types of substances in managing HCV. Future research is needed to examine the clinical utility of further unbundling these substances and also to further investigate effects of various amounts of use of these substances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol S North
- a The Altshuler Center for Education and Research at Metrocare Services and Department of Psychiatry , The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center , Dallas , Texas , USA
| | - David E Pollio
- b The University of Alabama at Birmingham , Department of Social Work, College of Arts and Sciences , Birmingham , Alabama , USA
| | - Omar T Sims
- b The University of Alabama at Birmingham , Department of Social Work, College of Arts and Sciences , Birmingham , Alabama , USA
| | - Mamta K Jain
- c The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center , Department of Internal Medicine/Division of Infectious Diseases , Dallas , Texas , USA
| | - Barry A Hong
- d Washington University School of Medicine , Department of Psychiatry , St. Louis , Missouri , USA
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Short article: Alcohol and substance use, race, and insurance status predict nontreatment for hepatitis C virus in the era of direct acting antivirals: a retrospective study in a large urban tertiary center. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2017; 29:1219-1222. [PMID: 28857899 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000000961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Direct acting antivirals (DAAs) have overcome many long-standing medical barriers to hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment (i.e. host characteristics and medical contraindications) and treatment outcome disparities that were associated with interferon regimens. The public health and clinical benefit of current and forthcoming DAA discoveries will be limited if efforts are not made to examine racial, psychological, and socioeconomic factors associated with being treated with DAAs. This study examined racial, psychological, and socioeconomic factors that facilitate and inhibit patients receiving DAAs for HCV. PATIENTS AND METHODS This was a single-center retrospective cohort study at a large urban tertiary center of patients (n=747) who were referred for evaluation and treatment of HCV. RESULTS Sixty-eight percent of patients were non-Hispanic White, 31% were African American, and 1% were of other ethnicities. The majority of patients received treatment, but 29% (218/747) did not. Patients who were older [odds ratio (OR)=1.02, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.01-1.04] and insured (OR=2.73, 95% CI: 1.12-6.97) were more likely to receive HCV treatment. Patients who were African American (OR=0.46, 95% CI: 0.46-1.06), used drugs (OR=0.09, 95% CI: 0.04-0.17), smoked (OR=0.55, 95% CI: 0.37-0.81), and used alcohol (OR=0.11, 95% CI: 0.06-0.20) were less likely to receive HCV treatment. CONCLUSION Though DAAs have eliminated many historically, long-standing medical barriers to HCV treatment, several racial, psychological and socioeconomic barriers, and disparities remain. Consequently, patients who are African American, uninsured, and actively use drugs and alcohol will suffer from increased HCV-related morbidity and mortality in the coming years if deliberate public health and clinical efforts are not made to facilitate access to DAAs.
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VIEIRA-CASTRO ACM, OLIVEIRA LCMD. Impact of alcohol consumption among patients in hepatitis C virus treatment. ARQUIVOS DE GASTROENTEROLOGIA 2017; 54:232-237. [DOI: 10.1590/s0004-2803.201700000-33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2017] [Accepted: 04/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Recent studies have questioned the recommendation of abstinence from alcohol for at least 6 months for alcoholic patients to be treated for hepatitis C. OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed to assess the impact of alcohol consumption among patients undergoing hepatitis C treatment. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 121 patients [78 (64.5%) men; 28-70 years] were evaluated. They were divided as follows: patients who consumed <12 g of ethanol/day throughout life (Group 1), 12-59 g/day (Group 2) and ≥60 g/day (Group 3). Patients were treated with pegylated-interferon plus ribavirin. RESULTS: These three groups could not be distinguished in terms of the severity of liver fibrosis and frequency of HCV genotype-1 infection. In Group 3, treatment discontinuation (32.4%) was higher than in the Group 1 (9.4%) or Group 2 (0%), it was higher among patients who drank during treatment (66.7% vs 21.4%) and among those who had not been abstinent for at least 6 months (72.7% vs 15.4%). Moderate alcohol drinkers showed good adherence and did not discontinue the treatment. The frequencies of sustained viral response among patients in Group 3 (44.4%) were similar to those in Group 1 (61%) and Group 2 (68.4%). CONCLUSION: Heavy drinkers more often discontinued treatment for hepatitis C, but those that received this treatment had acceptable sustained viral response rates. These results suggest that heavy drinkers should not be systematically excluded from the treatment, but they should be monitored to avoid drinking and abandoning treatment, mainly those who have not been abstinent for at least 6 months.
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Turner BJ, Craig K, Makanji VS, Flores BE, Hernandez L. Improving support and education of low-income baby boomers diagnosed with chronic hepatitis C virus infection through universal screening. J Clin Nurs 2017; 26:4605-4612. [PMID: 28295785 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.13806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/04/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES To identify support needs of low-income baby boomers recently diagnosed with chronic hepatitis C virus infection. BACKGROUND The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force has endorsed one-time screening of all baby boomers (born 1945-1965) for hepatitis C because 75% of the estimated 2-3 million persons with chronic infection are in this age range. We hypothesised that persons diagnosed by routine screening would have significant psycho-emotional, cognitive and healthcare challenges that need to be met by collaborative care and services from nurses and other healthcare personnel. DESIGN Qualitative descriptive study of data from three focus groups with predominantly minority participants (N = 16). Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis, and transcribed data were categorised by three domains in a previously developed model and a new domain identified in this study. Frequencies of unique participants' comments about each theme were calculated. RESULTS Elucidated domains were as follows: (i) psycho-emotional effects due to social stigma, shame, fear and dealing with risky behaviours; (ii) social effects due to concerns about infecting others; and (iii) cognitive deficits because of poor understanding about hepatitis C virus infection and its care. A new domain related to health care emerged reflecting the following themes: poor access to care, barriers to costly treatment, and navigating complex care for comorbidities. Despite these challenges, participants strongly endorsed universal baby boomer hepatitis C virus screening. CONCLUSIONS This study describes psycho-emotional and social challenges of people dealing with a hepatitis C diagnosis which are compounded by poor knowledge and barriers to supportive care. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE Nursing and other allied health personnel require structured support programmes to assist older persons diagnosed with hepatitis C with addressing these common challenges with the ultimate goal of achieving a cure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara J Turner
- Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health San Antonio (UT Health San Antonio), San Antonio, TX, USA.,Center for Research to Advance Community Health (ReACH), UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Kathryn Craig
- School of Medicine, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Vidhi S Makanji
- School of Medicine, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Bertha E Flores
- Center for Research to Advance Community Health (ReACH), UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA.,School of Nursing, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Ludivina Hernandez
- Center for Research to Advance Community Health (ReACH), UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
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Fuster D, Sanvisens A, Bolao F, Rivas I, Tor J, Muga R. Alcohol use disorder and its impact on chronic hepatitis C virus and human immunodeficiency virus infections. World J Hepatol 2016; 8:1295-1308. [PMID: 27872681 PMCID: PMC5099582 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v8.i31.1295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2016] [Revised: 08/04/2016] [Accepted: 08/29/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection frequently co-occur. AUD is associated with greater exposure to HCV infection, increased HCV infection persistence, and more extensive liver damage due to interactions between AUD and HCV on immune responses, cytotoxicity, and oxidative stress. Although AUD and HCV infection are associated with increased morbidity and mortality, HCV antiviral therapy is less commonly prescribed in individuals with both conditions. AUD is also common in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, which negatively impacts proper HIV care and adherence to antiretroviral therapy, and liver disease. In addition, AUD and HCV infection are also frequent within a proportion of patients with HIV infection, which negatively impacts liver disease. This review summarizes the current knowledge regarding pathological interactions of AUD with hepatitis C infection, HIV infection, and HCV/HIV co-infection, as well as relating to AUD treatment interventions in these individuals.
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Sims OT, Maynard QR, Melton PA. Behavioral Interventions to Reduce Alcohol Use Among Patients with Hepatitis C: A Systematic Review. SOCIAL WORK IN PUBLIC HEALTH 2016; 31:565-73. [PMID: 27295132 DOI: 10.1080/19371918.2016.1160346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol use is a barrier to pharmacologic treatment for hepatitis C virus (HCV). It is advantageous for medical and clinical social workers engaged in HCV care to be knowledgeable of behavioral interventions that can be used to reduce alcohol use among patients with HCV. This article identifies and describes studies that designed and implemented behavioral interventions to reduce alcohol use among patients with HCV in clinical settings. To achieve this goal, this article conducts a rigorous systematic review to identify peer-reviewed articles, describes each behavioral intervention, and reports primary outcomes of each study included in the review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar T Sims
- a Department of Social Work, College of Arts and Sciences , The University of Alabama at Birmingham , Birmingham , Alabama , USA
- b Department of Health Behavior, School of Public Health , The University of Alabama at Birmingham , Birmingham , Alabama , USA
- c Center for AIDS Research, The University of Alabama at Birmingham , Birmingham , Alabama , USA
- d Center for Comprehensive Healthy Aging, The University of Alabama at Birmingham , Birmingham , Alabama , USA
| | - Quentin R Maynard
- e School of Social Work, The University of Alabama , Tuscaloosa , Alabama , USA
| | - Pam A Melton
- e School of Social Work, The University of Alabama , Tuscaloosa , Alabama , USA
- f School of Social Work, Tulane University , New Orleans , Louisiana , USA
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Abstract
Alcohol consumption is often associated with viral hepatitis. Although alcohol is known to worsen viral liver disease, the interactions between alcohol and viral hepatitis are not fully understood. Molecular alterations in the liver due to alcohol and viral hepatitis include effects on viral replication, increased oxidative stress, cytotoxicity, and a weakened immune response. Clinically, alcohol enhances disease progression and favors induction of primitive liver neoplasm. The use of new antivirals for hepatitis C and well-established drugs for hepatitis B will determine how viral hepatitis can be controlled in a large percentage of these patients. However, alcohol-related liver disease continues to represent a barrier for access to antivirals, and it remains an unresolved health issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Gitto
- Dipartimento di Gastroenterologia, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria & University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Giovanni Vitale
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, University of Bologna and Dipartimento dell'Apparato Digerente, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Policlinico Sant'Orsola Malpighi, Bologna, Italy
| | - Erica Villa
- Dipartimento di Gastroenterologia, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria & University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Pietro Andreone
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, University of Bologna and Dipartimento dell'Apparato Digerente, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Policlinico Sant'Orsola Malpighi, Bologna, Italy
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Gitto S, Vitale G, Villa E, Andreone P. Update on Alcohol and Viral Hepatitis. J Clin Transl Hepatol 2014; 2:228-33. [PMID: 26356547 PMCID: PMC4521233 DOI: 10.14218/jcth.2014.00030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2014] [Revised: 11/03/2014] [Accepted: 11/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Alcohol consumption is often associated with viral hepatitis. Although alcohol is known to worsen viral liver disease, the interactions between alcohol and viral hepatitis are not fully understood. Molecular alterations in the liver due to alcohol and viral hepatitis include effects on viral replication, increased oxidative stress, cytotoxicity, and a weakened immune response. Clinically, alcohol enhances disease progression and favors induction of primitive liver neoplasm. The use of new antivirals for hepatitis C and well-established drugs for hepatitis B will determine how viral hepatitis can be controlled in a large percentage of these patients. However, alcohol-related liver disease continues to represent a barrier for access to antivirals, and it remains an unresolved health issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Gitto
- Dipartimento di Gastroenterologia, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria & University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Giovanni Vitale
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, University of Bologna and Dipartimento dell'Apparato Digerente, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Policlinico Sant'Orsola Malpighi, Bologna, Italy
| | - Erica Villa
- Dipartimento di Gastroenterologia, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria & University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Pietro Andreone
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, University of Bologna and Dipartimento dell'Apparato Digerente, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Policlinico Sant'Orsola Malpighi, Bologna, Italy
- Correspondence to: Pietro Andreone, Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche, University of Bologna and Dipartimento dell'Apparato Digerente, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Policlinico Sant'Orsola Malpighi, Padiglione 11, Via Massarenti 9, 40138 Bologna, Italy. Tel: +39-051-6363618, Fax: +39-051-345-806. E-mail:
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