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Preston R, Christmass M, Lim E, McGough S, Heslop K. Diagnostic Overshadowing of Chronic Hepatitis C in People With Mental Health Conditions Who Inject Drugs: A Scoping Review. Int J Ment Health Nurs 2024; 33:1840-1873. [PMID: 39101240 DOI: 10.1111/inm.13396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
Diagnostic overshadowing refers to a phenomenon whereby people with mental health conditions encounter inadequate or delayed medical attention and misdiagnosis. This occurs when physical symptoms are mistakenly attributed to their mental health condition. This paper presents a scoping review focusing on direct causes and background factors of diagnostic overshadowing in the context of hepatitis C infection in people who inject drugs and have concurrent mental health conditions. Despite significant strides in hepatitis C treatment with direct-acting antiviral drugs, the complex interplay of mental health conditions and physical symptoms necessitates a nuanced approach for accurate diagnosis and effective screening. This review was conducted using Joanna Briggs Institute's methodology for scoping reviews. The databases searched included Medline, Embase, PsycInfo, Global Health, CINAHL and Scopus. This review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). The search strategies identified 1995 records. Overall, 166 studies were excluded. Forty-two (42) studies met the inclusion criteria. Three (n = 3) studies represented direct causes, and 39 (n = 39) with background factors related to diagnostic overshadowing. Studies highlighted six key themes encompassing diagnostic overshadowing, with communication barriers, stigma and knowledge deficiencies being the most prominent. Recognising and addressing diagnostic overshadowing in chronic hepatitis C will lead to increased screening, diagnosis and timely administration of life-saving antiviral therapy, resulting in profound enhancements in well-being and health outcomes. Moreover, this proactive approach will play a pivotal role in advancing the global effort towards eliminating hepatitis C by 2030.
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Affiliation(s)
- Regan Preston
- Curtin School of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Michael Christmass
- Curtin Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Eric Lim
- Curtin School of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Shirley McGough
- Curtin School of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Karen Heslop
- Curtin School of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
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Tozzi VD, Boscolo PR, Cinelli G, Ferrara L, Petracca F, Zazzera A. Therapeutic innovation in high-prevalence chronic diseases: Challenges and opportunities for specialist care models. Health Serv Manage Res 2024; 37:29-33. [PMID: 36333108 DOI: 10.1177/09514848221138406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Therapeutic innovation is expected to change if not disrupt present care models for several chronic diseases in the coming years, as suggested by recent clinical trials. New drugs that anticipate and possibly delay the full expression of a disease will likely face some common challenges, such as the need of designing and implementing large scale interventions; the necessary engagement of multiple specialties for both diagnosis and treatment; the shift from specialist to non-specialist interventions and secondary prevention. Building on the case of HCV and other innovation in hepatology, we discuss common challenges caused by disruptive change that other chronic conditions faced in the past. The recent history of hepatology shows interesting examples of disruptive innovations that completely reverted traditional treatment approaches. As we learned from the slow early diffusion of antiviral drugs, without a clear information and a prompt design of the appropriate delivery modalities, the effectiveness of new treatments is undermined and care risk to be postponed for long time. This implies the definition of (i) new service models diversified by care phases and patients' target; (ii) horizontal integration: to go beyond the professional boundaries to build solid alliances; (iii) vertical integration between primary and secondary care.
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Barbati S, Strasser J, Allemann SS, Arnet I. Initiation of oral hepatitis C virus treatment: Which barriers are pertinent for ambulatory individuals with a history of illicit substance use? A qualitative interview study. Health Sci Rep 2024; 7:e1814. [PMID: 38260184 PMCID: PMC10802086 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.1814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims The World Health Organization has set a goal to eradicate hepatitis C virus (HCV) by the year 2030. Nonadherence to HCV treatment has substantial economic implications due to high treatment costs, among others. Barriers to start HCV treatment may be critical. The aim of this study was to assess pertinent barriers to HCV treatment in ambulatory patients with a history of illicit substance use and to compare them to the literature. Methods Barriers to HCV treatment mentioned by the key risk group (i.e., people who inject drugs) were retrieved from literature through a pragmatic literature search. From 34 published articles, we identified 80 modifiable barriers that were bundled in 23 items within the four topics "Personal difficulties and barriers to treatment," "Personal motivation to be treated," "Knowledge about the disease," and "Received information about the medicine." In-depth semistructured interviews were performed face-to-face with ambulatory patients from the University Psychiatric Clinics in Basel, Switzerland. Transcripts were coded inductively. Results Interviews were performed with seven individuals (mean age: 48.3 years; range: 38-63 years; one woman) treated with oral direct-acting antivirals between 2014 and 2022. Thirteen barriers to start HCV treatment were mentioned that corresponded to the five categories: information, attitudes, swallowing difficulties, social environment, and unfavorable lifestyle. The barrier "swallowing difficulties" emerged exclusively from the statements provided by the interviewees. Conclusion Barriers to the initiation of HCV treatment indicated by our interviewees clearly differed from the literature. Notably, the challenge of swallowing medicines may be particularly relevant for physicians prescribing and pharmacists dispensing HCV medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selina Barbati
- Pharmaceutical Care Research Group, Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of BaselBaselSwitzerland
| | | | - Samuel S. Allemann
- Pharmaceutical Care Research Group, Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of BaselBaselSwitzerland
| | - Isabelle Arnet
- Pharmaceutical Care Research Group, Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of BaselBaselSwitzerland
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Bardach SH, Perry AN, Eccles E, Carpenter-Song EA, Fowler R, Miers EM, Ovalle A, de Gijsel D. Coproduction of Low-Barrier Hepatitis C Virus and HIV Care for People Who Use Drugs in a Rural Community: Brief Qualitative Report. J Particip Med 2023; 15:e47395. [PMID: 37728975 PMCID: PMC10551795 DOI: 10.2196/47395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who inject drugs are experiencing syndemic conditions with increasing risk of infection with hepatitis C (HCV) and HIV. However, rates of accessing HCV and HIV testing and treatment among people who inject drugs are low for various reasons, including the criminalization of drug use, which leads to a focus on treating drug use rather than caring for drug users. For many people who inject drugs, health care becomes a form of structural violence, resulting in traumatic experiences, fear of police violence, unmet needs, and avoidance of medical care. There is a clear need for novel approaches to health care delivery for people who inject drugs. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to analyze the process of a multidisciplinary team-encompassing health care professionals, community representatives, researchers, and people with lived experience using drugs-that was formed to develop a deep understanding of the experiences of people who inject drugs and local ecosystem opportunities and constraints to inform the cocreation of low-barrier, innovative HCV or HIV care in a rural community. Given the need for innovative approaches to redesigning health care, we sought to identify challenges and tensions encountered in this process and strategies for overcoming these challenges. METHODS Analysis was based on an in-depth review of meeting notes from the project year, followed by member-checking with the project team to revise and expand upon the challenges encountered and strategies identified to navigate these challenges. RESULTS Challenges and tensions included: scoping the project, setting the pace and urgency of the work, adapting to web-based work, navigating ethics and practice of payment, defining success, and situating the project for sustainability. Strategies to navigate these challenges included: dedicated effort to building personal and meaningful connections, fostering mutual respect, identifying common ground to make shared decisions, and redefining successes. CONCLUSIONS While cocreated care presents challenges, the resulting program is strengthened by challenging assumptions and carefully considering various perspectives to think creatively and productively about solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shoshana H Bardach
- The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, United States
| | - Amanda N Perry
- The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, United States
| | - Elizabeth Eccles
- Section of Infectious Diseases & International Health, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, United States
| | | | - Ryan Fowler
- HIV/HCV Resource Center, Lebanon, NH, United States
| | - Erin M Miers
- Park Nicollet Health Services, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | | | - David de Gijsel
- The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Lebanon, NH, United States
- Section of Infectious Diseases & International Health, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, United States
- Better Life Partners, Manchester, NH, United States
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Yuan JM, Croxford S, Viviani L, Emanuel E, Phipps E, Desai M. Investigating the sociodemographic and behavioural factors associated with hepatitis C virus testing amongst people who inject drugs in England, Wales and Northern Ireland: A quantitative cross-sectional analysis. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2022; 109:103821. [PMID: 35994940 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2022.103821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission in the UK is driven by injecting drug use. We explore HCV testing uptake amongst people who inject drugs (PWID) in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and identify factors associated with i) ever having an HCV test amongst people who have ever injected drugs, and ii) recently having an HCV test (within the current or previous year) amongst people who currently inject drugs (reported injecting drugs within the last year). METHODS We analysed data from the 2019 'Unlinked Anonymous Monitoring Survey' of PWID, using logistic regression. RESULTS Of 3,127 PWID, 2,065 reported injecting drugs within the last year. Most (86.7%) PWID had a lifetime history of HCV testing. In multivariable analysis, higher odds of ever testing were associated with: female sex (aOR=1.54; 95%CI 1.11-2.14), injecting duration ≥3 years (aOR=2.94; 95%CI 2.13-4.05), ever receiving used needles/syringes (aOR=1.74; 95%CI 1.29-2.36), ever being on opioid agonist treatment (aOR=2.91; 95%CI 2.01-4.21), ever being imprisoned (aOR=1.86; 95%CI 1.40-2.48) and ever being homeless (aOR=1.54; 95%CI 1.14-2.07). Amongst PWID who had injected drugs within the last year, 49.9% had recently undertaken an HCV test. After adjustment, factors associated with higher odds of undertaking a recent HCV test included: injecting crack in the last year (aOR=1.29; 95%CI 1.03-1.61), experiencing a non-fatal overdose in the last year (aOR=1.39; 95%CI 1.05-1.85), ever being on opioid agonist treatment (aOR=1.48; 95%CI 0.97-2.25), receiving HCV information in the last year (aOR=1.99; 95%CI 1.49-2.65) and using a healthcare service in the last year (aOR=1.80; 95%CI 1.21-2.67). CONCLUSION Results suggest that PWID who have experienced homelessness and incarceration - amongst the most vulnerable and marginalised in the PWID population - are engaging with HCV testing, but overall there remain missed testing opportunities. Recent initiates to injecting have highest HCV infection risk but lower odds of testing, and peer-education may help target this group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Min Yuan
- UK Health Security Agency, 61 Colindale Avenue, London, NW9 5EQ, UK.
| | - Sara Croxford
- UK Health Security Agency, 61 Colindale Avenue, London, NW9 5EQ, UK
| | - Laura Viviani
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Eva Emanuel
- UK Health Security Agency, 61 Colindale Avenue, London, NW9 5EQ, UK
| | - Emily Phipps
- UK Health Security Agency, 61 Colindale Avenue, London, NW9 5EQ, UK
| | - Monica Desai
- UK Health Security Agency, 61 Colindale Avenue, London, NW9 5EQ, UK
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Taylor S, Haworth-Brockman M, Keynan Y. Slipping through: mobility's influence on infectious disease risks for justice-involved women in Canada. HEALTH & JUSTICE 2021; 9:35. [PMID: 34845559 PMCID: PMC8630874 DOI: 10.1186/s40352-021-00157-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The relationship between incarceration and women's vulnerability to sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBI) is understudied in Canada, despite numerous studies showing that justice-involved women experience very high rates of infection. Justice-involved women in Canada are highly mobile, as a result of high rates of incarceration and extremely short sentences. From a public health perspective, it is productive to understand how the mobility of justice-involved women shapes their vulnerability to STBBI. RESULTS This narrative review demonstrates that mobility between incarceration facilities and communities drives sexually transmitted and blood-borne disease risk for justice-involved women in Canada. Associations and interactions between epidemics of gender-based and intimate partner violence, substance use, and STBBIs shape the experiences of justice-involved women in Canada. In correctional facilities, the pre-existing vulnerability of justice-involved women is compounded by a lack of comprehensive STBBI care and limited harm reduction services. On release, unstable housing, disruptions to social support networks, interruptions in medical care, and relapse to or continuation of substance use, significantly increase individual disease risk and the likelihood of community transmission. High rates of incarceration for short periods perpetuate this cycle and complicate the delivery of healthcare. CONCLUSIONS The review provides evidence of the need for stronger gender-transformative public health planning and responses for incarcerated women, in both federal and provincial corrections settings in Canada. A supportive, evidence-based approach to STBBI identification and treatment for incarcerated women - one that that removes stigma, maintains privacy and improves access, combined with structural policies to prevent incarceration - could decrease STBBI incidence and interrupt the cycle of incarceration and poor health outcomes. A coordinated and accountable program of reintegration that facilitates continuity of public health interventions for STBBI, as well as safe housing, harm reduction and other supports, can improve outcomes as well. Lastly, metrics to measure performance of STBBI management during incarceration and upon release would help to identify gaps and improve outcomes for justice-involved women in the Canadian context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susie Taylor
- National Collaborating Centre for Infectious Diseases, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Room L332A, Basic Medical Sciences Building, 745 Bannatyne Ave, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3E 0T5, Canada.
| | - Margaret Haworth-Brockman
- National Collaborating Centre for Infectious Diseases, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Room L332A, Basic Medical Sciences Building, 745 Bannatyne Ave, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3E 0T5, Canada
| | - Yoav Keynan
- National Collaborating Centre for Infectious Diseases, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Room L332A, Basic Medical Sciences Building, 745 Bannatyne Ave, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3E 0T5, Canada
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Elbahrawy A, Ibrahim MK, Eliwa A, Alboraie M, Madian A, Aly HH. Current situation of viral hepatitis in Egypt. Microbiol Immunol 2021; 65:352-372. [PMID: 33990999 DOI: 10.1111/1348-0421.12916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
An estimated 8-10 million people suffer from viral hepatitis in Egypt. Hepatitis A virus (HAV) and hepatitis E virus (HEV) are the major causes of viral hepatitis in Egypt as 50% or more of the Egyptian population are already exposed to HAV infection by the age of 15. In addition, over 60% of the Egyptian population test seropositive for anti-HEV in the first decade of life. HEV mainly causes self-limiting hepatitis; however, cases of fulminant hepatitis and liver failure were reported in Egypt. Hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and hepatitis D virus (HDV) are the main causes of chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma [HCC]) in Egypt. Globally, Egypt had the highest age-standardized death rate due to cirrhosis from 1990 to 2017. The prevalence rate of HBV (1.3%-1.5%) has declined after national infantile immunization. Coinfection of HBV patients with HDV is common in Egypt because HDV antibodies (IgG) vary in range from 8.3% to 43% among total HBV patients. After the conduction of multiple national programs to control HCV infection, a lower rate of HCV prevalence (4.6%) was recently reported. Data about the incidence of HCV after treatment with direct antiviral agents (DAAs) are lacking. An HCC incidence of 29/1000/year in cirrhotic patients after DAA treatment is reported. A higher rate of infiltrative pattern among HCC patients after DAA treatment is also recognized. Viral hepatitis is one of the major public health concerns in Egypt that needs more attention and funding from health policymakers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashraf Elbahrawy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Marwa K Ibrahim
- Department of Microbial Biotechnology, Division of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ahmed Eliwa
- Department of Internal Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Alboraie
- Department of Internal Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ali Madian
- Department of Internal Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Hussein Hassan Aly
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
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Bajis S, Applegate TL, Grebely J, Matthews GV, Dore GJ. Novel Hepatitic C Virus (HCV) Diagnosis and Treatment Delivery Systems: Facilitating HCV Elimination by Thinking Outside the Clinic. J Infect Dis 2021; 222:S758-S772. [PMID: 33245354 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiaa366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The World Health Organization has set a goal to eliminate hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection as public health threat by 2030. Although the advent of highly effective and tolerable direct-acting antiviral therapy has paved the way for HCV elimination, most people with HCV infection remain undiagnosed and untreated globally, with striking disparities between high-income and low- to middle-income countries. Novel decentralized and cost-effective "test-and-treat" strategies are critically needed to identify the millions of people unaware of their status and link them to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Bajis
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Tanya L Applegate
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jason Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Gail V Matthews
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Gregory J Dore
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Hannula R, Söderholm J, Svendsen T, Skaland M, Nordbø SA, Steinum H, Damås JK. Hepatitis C outreach project and cross-sectional epidemiology in high-risk populations in Trondheim, Norway. Ther Adv Infect Dis 2021; 8:20499361211053929. [PMID: 34733508 PMCID: PMC8558792 DOI: 10.1177/20499361211053929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C is highly prevalent among people who use drugs (PWUD), and the hepatitis C virus (HCV) epidemic is less characterised in Norway. The aims of the study were to assess the prevalence and treatment willingness in high-risk populations by reaching out to frequently visited sites for high-risk populations. METHODS Individuals from high-risk populations were included from September 2015 to March 2017. Two dedicated study nurses frequently visited the local opioid substitution clinic, outpatient clinics, PWUD day centres, local prison, and refugee centre in Trondheim, Norway. Demographic data, risk behaviour, and clinical symptoms were obtained by study questionnaire. Subjects with anti-HCV+ rapid test were subsequently tested for HCV RNA and genotyped. Viraemic patients were offered referral for HCV treatment evaluation. RESULTS A total of 381 participants were included in the study: 52 immigrants, 62 prisoners, and 267 PWUD. The anti-HCV prevalence rates were 0% (n = 0) in immigrants, 40% (n = 25) in prisoners, and 61% (n = 164) in PWUD, with 24% (n = 15) of prisoners and 42% (n = 108) of PWUD being viraemic. Of those qualifying for treatment (n = 31), 30 wished to be evaluated. CONCLUSION This study showed high HCV prevalence in prisoners and PWUD and that infected high-risk patients were interested in treatment evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raisa Hannula
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Trondheim University Hospital, 7006 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Jonas Söderholm
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Therese Svendsen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Maja Skaland
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Svein A. Nordbø
- Department of Medical Microbiology, St. Olavs Hospital HF, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Harald Steinum
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Jan K. Damås
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
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Robaeys G, Bielen R. Management of Hepatitis C Viral Infection in People Who Inject Drugs. HEPATITIS C: CARE AND TREATMENT 2021:191-211. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-67762-6_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2025]
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11
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Morris L, Selvey L, Williams O, Gilks C, Smirnov A. Reasons for Not Seeking Hepatitis C Treatment among People Who Inject Drugs. Subst Use Misuse 2021; 56:175-184. [PMID: 33208025 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2020.1846198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Despite increases in treatment uptake for hepatitis C viral infection (HCV) in Australia since the introduction of direct acting antiviral (DAA) therapy, a large proportion of HCV-infected people who inject drugs (PWID) have not sought treatment. Purpose/Objectives: To examine predictors of treatment uptake and reasons for not seeking treatment among PWID. Methods: PWID (n = 404) recruited through five needle and syringe programs in South East Queensland were interviewed about HCV testing, status and treatment, recent injecting drug use, mental health and reasons for not taking up treatment. Predictors of treatment uptake were examined using unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression analyses. Proportions were calculated for participants reporting each reason for not taking up treatment. Results: We recruited 404 PWID. Of those tested for HCV (94%), 55% were HCV antibody positive and 31% with active infection. Approximately 36% of eligible participants had begun or completed DAA treatment. In adjusted analyses, injecting drugs three or more times per day was associated with not taking up HCV treatment (p = 0.005). Common reasons for not seeking treatment ("applied a lot") included experiencing no HCV-related symptoms (25%), HCV treatment not being a priority (23%), fear of treatment side effects (18%), and no knowledge of DAA treatments (15%). Conclusions/Importance: HCV education efforts for PWID should target misperceptions and lack of awareness of DAA therapy, and highlight the likely benefits of treatment even when asymptomatic. The use of peer workers and increased investment in integrated treatment facilities will likely aid treatment uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leith Morris
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Herston, Australia
| | - Linda Selvey
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Herston, Australia
| | - Owain Williams
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Herston, Australia
| | - Charles Gilks
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Herston, Australia
| | - Andrew Smirnov
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Herston, Australia.,Queensland Alcohol and Drug Research and Education Centre, The University of Queensland, Herston, Australia
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12
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Wiessing L, Giraudon I, Duffell E, Veldhuijzen I, Zimmermann R, Hope V. Epidemiology of Hepatitis C Virus: People Who Inject Drugs and Other Key Populations. HEPATITIS C: EPIDEMIOLOGY, PREVENTION AND ELIMINATION 2021:109-149. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-64649-3_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2025]
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13
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Bielen R, Koc ÖM, Busschots D, Verrando R, Nevens F, Robaeys G. Validation of hepatitis C virus RNA detection using capillary blood by finger prick (GenXpert system)-Hepatitis C fingerprick study. J Viral Hepat 2020; 27:709-714. [PMID: 32106345 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
To achieve the ambitious goals of the WHO to eliminate hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection as a public health threat by 2030, innovative approaches are needed to improve the uptake for screening and treatment in people who inject drugs (PWID). Important barriers to care are difficult venous access and the two-step approach in current point-of-care tests, using an HCV antibody screening test followed by a confirmatory HCV RNA test. In this study, we aimed to validate the new GenXpert instrument to diagnose HCV RNA by finger prick. This prospective study was conducted in a cohort of PWID in 6 alcohol/drug clinic sites and 1 outreach project in Belgium between January 2018 and March 2019. Plasma and capillary whole-blood samples were collected by venepuncture and finger prick, respectively. Sensitivity and specificity of the GenXpert system were compared to the gold standard Artus HCV RNA kit. Of 153 participants enrolled, 147 (96.1%) had results of both the GenXpert system and Artus HCV RNA kit available. HCV RNA was detected in 35 of 147 (23.8%) by the Artus HCV RNA kit and in 36 of 147 (24.8%) by the GenXpert. Median quantitative HCV RNA viral load on finger prick was 28 700 IU/mL (IQR 4070-65 875) vs 1 900 000IU/mL (IQR 416,466-2,265,510) on plasma. The GenXpert instrument had a sensitivity of 100% (95% CI 90%-100%) and a specificity of 99.1% (95.1%-99.9%). The overall diagnostic accuracy was 99.3% (96.3%-99.9%). This study validates the excellent performance of the GenXpert instrument to assess HCV RNA in capillary whole blood by finger prick in a PWID cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rob Bielen
- Faculty of medicine and life sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium.,Department of gastroenterology, Ziekenhuis Oost-Limburg, Genk, Belgium
| | - Özgür M Koc
- Faculty of medicine and life sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium.,Department of gastroenterology, Ziekenhuis Oost-Limburg, Genk, Belgium.,Medical Microbiology, School of NUTRIM, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Dana Busschots
- Faculty of medicine and life sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium.,Department of gastroenterology, Ziekenhuis Oost-Limburg, Genk, Belgium
| | - Rita Verrando
- Centre for Alcohol and other Drugs (CAD) Limburg, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Frederik Nevens
- Department of gastroenterology and hepatology, University Hospitals KULeuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Geert Robaeys
- Faculty of medicine and life sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium.,Department of gastroenterology, Ziekenhuis Oost-Limburg, Genk, Belgium.,Department of gastroenterology and hepatology, University Hospitals KULeuven, Leuven, Belgium
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14
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Pourmarzi D, Smirnov A, Hall L, Thompson H, FitzGerald G, Rahman T. Enablers and barriers for the provision of community-based HCV treatment: A case study of a real-world practice. J Viral Hepat 2020; 27:484-496. [PMID: 31958355 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Revised: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the availability of fully funded direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) and the eligibility of primary care providers (PCPs) to provide hepatitis C virus (HCV) have removed barriers related to access to hospital-based HCV treatment in Australia, there are still many barriers to the provision of HCV treatment in community settings. There is a lack of knowledge regarding the barriers to, and enablers of HCV treatment in community settings in Australia. This study aimed to identify barriers and enablers for the provision of community-based HCV treatment. METHODS This study was a part of a mixed-method case study of the Cure-It programme. The programme was studied to better understand barriers and enablers experienced by stakeholders of such programmes. The programme is delivered through the Prince Charles Hospital in Brisbane, Australia, and aimed to improve access to HCV treatment in community settings. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews with 12 healthcare providers and nine patients between July and December 2018. Purposive sampling was used to ensure diverse views were captured. The interview transcripts were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. RESULTS Ease of access to specialist support, easy and high value treatment, co-location with or providing other services and motivated patients enabled PCPs to be engaged with the Cure-It programme. Several interconnected factors related to patients' characteristics and health system acted synergistically to enable patients to initiate and complete treatment. These included a desire to remove HCV as a source of shame, having children, awareness of HCV consequences, access to DAAs for free, ease of access to general practices and drug and alcohol services, and access to a safe and enabling environment. The identified barriers were interconnected at the levels of patients, PCPs and primary care systems and acted synergistically to prevent patients and PCPs from becoming engaged with HCV treatment. PCPs' related barriers included a lack of knowledge, their perception of HCV as a specialist area and of patients with HCV as 'hard to manage' patients along with the practice preferences and priorities. Patients' related barriers included their socioeconomic characteristics, internalized stigma, perception of not being sick and lack of knowledge. Additionally, the unavailability of support for patients and existence of stigma in primary health care, along with poor communication between the hospital and primary care system, and the unavailability of FibroScan® in primary care discouraged PCPs and patients engagement specifically with the provision of community-based HCV treatment. CONCLUSION Various strategies are needed to improve PCPs and patients' knowledge and awareness of HCV treatment. Training and support for PCPs need to be easy to access and should cover both clinical and social aspect of HCV. Connecting PCPs to other related services may improve PCPs' and patients' engagement with HCV treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davoud Pourmarzi
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Faculty of Health, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation (IHBI), Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia.,School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Andrew Smirnov
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Lisa Hall
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Hayley Thompson
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Gerard FitzGerald
- School of Public Health and Social Work, Faculty of Health, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation (IHBI), Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Tony Rahman
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
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15
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Risk of liver fibrosis progression in patients with suboptimal diagnosis of hepatitis C virus infection. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2020; 32:528-534. [PMID: 31490420 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000001534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Many hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected patients have a suboptimal diagnosis. Particularly, the characteristics and risk of fibrosis progression of HCV antibody-positive patients without RNA testing are unknown. METHODS Patients with a positive HCV antibody performed during 2005-2007 were classified based on RNA request and result until January 2017. Fibrosis was estimated with serologic scores. RESULTS Of the 38 246 HCV tests performed, 791 (2.01%) patients tested positive. At the end of the follow-up (median 128.6 months, range 109.8-145.9), 49.43% (n = 391) of the subjects did not have RNA testing, 13.02% (n = 103) had undetectable RNA, and 37.55% (n = 297) had detectable RNA. After excluding patients without data for AST to platelet ratio index calculation (n = 334), patients without RNA testing (n = 122) compared with RNA undetectable (n = 92) were more frequently men (68.9 versus 46.7%), alcohol (52.6 versus 38.2%) and drug (53.0 versus 39.1%) users, lacking social support (50.4 versus 29.3%), and showed higher basal fibrosis. Patients without RNA testing had a significantly higher increase in the percentage of patients with ≥F2 (P = 0.035) and cirrhosis (P = 0.022). The relative risk for ≥F2 and cirrhosis in patients without RNA testing was 3.03 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.54-5.98] and 4.31 (95% CI: 1.42-13.10), respectively. Non-RNA request was an independent predictor factor for progression to cirrhosis. CONCLUSION In our cohort, patients with positive HCV antibody without RNA testing were more likely to be people at risk of social exclusion with an increased risk of fibrosis progression, because non-RNA request was a predictor for cirrhosis. Therefore, we urge support measures and strategies to link to care these difficult-to-treat populations.
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16
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Bajis S, Grebely J, Hajarizadeh B, Applegate T, Marshall AD, Ellen Harrod M, Byrne J, Bath N, Read P, Edwards M, Gorton C, Hayllar J, Cock V, Peterson S, Thomson C, Weltman M, Jefferies M, Wood W, Haber P, Ezard N, Martinello M, Maher L, Dore GJ. Hepatitis C virus testing, liver disease assessment and treatment uptake among people who inject drugs pre- and post-universal access to direct-acting antiviral treatment in Australia: The LiveRLife study. J Viral Hepat 2020; 27:281-293. [PMID: 31698545 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Gaps in hepatitis C virus (HCV) testing, diagnosis, liver disease assessment and treatment uptake among people who inject drugs (PWID) persist. We aimed to describe the cascade of HCV care among PWID in Australia, prior to and following unrestricted access to direct-acting antiviral (DAA) treatment. Participants enrolled in an observational cohort study between 2014 and 2018 provided fingerstick whole-blood samples for dried blood spot, Xpert HCV Viral Load and venepuncture samples. Participants underwent transient elastography and clinical assessment by a nurse or general practitioner. Among 839 participants (mean age 43 years), 66% were male (n = 550), 64% (n = 537) injected drugs in the previous month, and 67% (n = 560) reported currently receiving opioid substitution therapy. Overall, 45% (n = 380) had detectable HCV RNA, of whom 23% (n = 86) received HCV treatment within 12 months of enrolment. HCV treatment uptake increased from 2% in the pre-DAA era to 38% in the DAA era. Significant liver fibrosis (F2-F4) was more common in participants with HCV infection (38%) than those without (19%). Age 50 years or older (aOR, 2.88; 95% CI, 1.18-7.04) and attending a clinical follow-up with nurse (aOR, 3.19; 95% CI, 1.61-6.32) or physician (aOR, 11.83; 95% CI, 4.89-28.59) were associated with HCV treatment uptake. Recent injection drug use and unstable housing were not associated with HCV treatment uptake. HCV treatment uptake among PWID has increased markedly in the DAA era. Evaluation of innovative and simplified models of care is required to further enhance treatment uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Bajis
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jason Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | | | - Alison D Marshall
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Jude Byrne
- Australian Injecting and Illicit Drug Users League, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Nicky Bath
- NSW Users and AIDS Association, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Michael Edwards
- South Western Sydney Local Health District Drug Health Services, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Carla Gorton
- Cairns Sexual Health Service, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Jeremy Hayllar
- Alcohol and Drug Service, Metro North Mental Health, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Victoria Cock
- Drug and Alcohol Services of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | | | - Claire Thomson
- Bayside Alcohol and Drug Services, Cleveland, QLD, Australia
| | | | | | - William Wood
- Sydney Medically Supervised Injecting Centre, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Paul Haber
- Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Nadine Ezard
- Alcohol and Drug Service, St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Lisa Maher
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
| | - Gregory J Dore
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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17
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Barré T, Marcellin F, Di Beo V, Delorme J, Rojas Rojas T, Mathurin P, Protopopescu C, Bailly F, Coste M, Authier N, Carrieri MP, Rolland B. Untreated alcohol use disorder in people who inject drugs (PWID) in France: a major barrier to HCV treatment uptake (the ANRS-FANTASIO study). Addiction 2020; 115:573-582. [PMID: 31595554 PMCID: PMC7027887 DOI: 10.1111/add.14820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Although people who inject drugs (PWID) are the core at-risk population in the hepatitis C virus (HCV) epidemic in industrialized countries, few initiate treatment. Alcohol use disorder (AUD), common within this population, has been identified as a barrier to HCV treatment uptake in the general population. We investigated whether the arrival of new and well-tolerated HCV treatments (direct-acting antivirals: DAA) has improved HCV treatment uptake in French PWID compared with former treatments (pegylated interferon-based treatments: Peg-IFN). DESIGN Using discrete-time Cox proportional hazards models based on exhaustive care delivery data, we tested for associations between AUD (defined by AUD-related long-term illness status, diagnosis coding during hospitalization and/or AUD pharmacological treatment) and first HCV treatment delivery, after adjusting for gender, age, complementary universal health cover, liver disease severity and type of opioid agonist therapy (OAT) received. Separate analyses were performed for 2012-13 (Peg-IFN era) and 2014-16 (DAA era). SETTING France. PARTICIPANTS All French people chronically HCV-infected who received OAT at least once during 2012-16 and were covered by the national health insurance (n = 24 831). MEASUREMENTS Incidence rate of HCV treatment uptake, hazard ratios associated with AUD and other covariates. FINDINGS Incidence rate (IR) of HCV treatment uptake per 100 person-years was 6.56, confidence interval (CI) = 6.30-6.84; and IR = 5.70, 95% CI = 5.51-5.89 for Peg-IFN-based treatment (2012-13) and DAA (2014-16), respectively. After multiple adjustment, people with AUD not receiving related medication had 30 and 14% lower Peg-IFN-based treatment and DAA uptake, respectively, than those without AUD [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.62-0.80 and HR = 0.86, 95% CI = 0.78-0.94]. No difference was observed between those treated for AUD and those without AUD. CONCLUSIONS Despite the benefits of direct-acting antiviral treatment, untreated alcohol use disorder appears to remain a major barrier to hepatitis C virus treatment access for people who inject drugs in France.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tangui Barré
- Aix Marseille Université, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de la Santé and Traitement de l'Information MédicaleMarseilleFrance,ORS PACA, Observatoire Régional de la Santé Provence‐Alpes‐Côte d'AzurMarseilleFrance
| | - Fabienne Marcellin
- Aix Marseille Université, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de la Santé and Traitement de l'Information MédicaleMarseilleFrance,ORS PACA, Observatoire Régional de la Santé Provence‐Alpes‐Côte d'AzurMarseilleFrance
| | - Vincent Di Beo
- Aix Marseille Université, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de la Santé and Traitement de l'Information MédicaleMarseilleFrance,ORS PACA, Observatoire Régional de la Santé Provence‐Alpes‐Côte d'AzurMarseilleFrance
| | - Jessica Delorme
- CHU Clermont‐Ferrand, Neuro‐Dol, Service de pharmacologie médicale, Centres addictovigilance et pharmacovigilanceUniversité Clermont AuvergneClermont‐FerrandFrance
| | - Teresa Rojas Rojas
- Aix Marseille Université, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de la Santé and Traitement de l'Information MédicaleMarseilleFrance,ORS PACA, Observatoire Régional de la Santé Provence‐Alpes‐Côte d'AzurMarseilleFrance
| | - Philippe Mathurin
- Service des maladies de l'appareil digestif, CHU LilleUniversité de LilleLilleFrance
| | - Camelia Protopopescu
- Aix Marseille Université, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de la Santé and Traitement de l'Information MédicaleMarseilleFrance,ORS PACA, Observatoire Régional de la Santé Provence‐Alpes‐Côte d'AzurMarseilleFrance
| | - François Bailly
- Service d'hépatologie et d'addictologie, Groupe hospitalier Nord, Hôpital de la Croix‐RousseLyonFrance
| | - Marion Coste
- Aix Marseille Université, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de la Santé and Traitement de l'Information MédicaleMarseilleFrance,ORS PACA, Observatoire Régional de la Santé Provence‐Alpes‐Côte d'AzurMarseilleFrance
| | - Nicolas Authier
- CHU Clermont‐Ferrand, Neuro‐Dol, Service de pharmacologie médicale, Centres addictovigilance et pharmacovigilanceUniversité Clermont AuvergneClermont‐FerrandFrance
| | - Maria Patrizia Carrieri
- Aix Marseille Université, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de la Santé and Traitement de l'Information MédicaleMarseilleFrance,ORS PACA, Observatoire Régional de la Santé Provence‐Alpes‐Côte d'AzurMarseilleFrance
| | - Benjamin Rolland
- Service Universitaire d'Addictologie de Lyon (SUAL), CH Le VinatierUniversité de LyonBronFrance
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18
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O'Keefe-Markman C, Lea KD, McCabe C, Hyshka E, Bubela T. Social values for health technology assessment in Canada: a scoping review of hepatitis C screening, diagnosis and treatment. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:89. [PMID: 31959155 PMCID: PMC6971980 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-8190-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health care system decision makers face challenges in allocating resources for screening, diagnosis and treatment of hepatitis C. Approximately 240,000 individuals are infected with the hepatitis C virus (HCV) in Canada. Populations most affected by HCV include Indigenous people, people who inject drugs, immigrants and homeless or incarcerated populations as well as those born between 1946 and 1965. Curative but expensive drug regimens of novel direct acting antivirals (DAAs) are available. We aim to identify social values from academic literature for inclusion in health technology assessments. METHODS We conducted a scoping review of academic literature to identify and analyze the social values and evidence-based recommendations for screening, diagnosis and treatment of HCV in Canada. After applying inclusion/exclusion criteria, we abstracted: type of intervention(s), population(s) affected, study location, screening methods, diagnostics and treatments. We then abstracted and applied qualitative codes for social values. We extracted social value statements and clustered them into one of 4 categories: (1) equity and justice, (2) duty to provide care, (3) maximization of population benefit, and (4) individual versus community interests. RESULTS One hundred and eighteen articles met our inclusion criteria on screening, diagnosis and treatment of HCV in Canada. Of these, 54 (45.8%) discussed screening, 4 (3.4%) discussed diagnosis and 60 (50.8%) discussed treatment options. Most articles discussed the general population and other non-vulnerable populations. Articles that discussed vulnerable populations focused on people who inject drugs. We coded 1243 statements, most of which fell into the social value categories of equity and justice, duty to provide care and maximization of population benefit. CONCLUSION The academic literature identified an expanded set of social values to be taken into account by resource allocation decision makers in financially constrained environments. In the context of hepatitis C, authors called for greater consideration of equity and justice and the duty to provide care in making evidence-based recommendations for screening, diagnosis and treatment for different populations and in different settings that also account for individual and community interests.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kristina Dawn Lea
- Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Christopher McCabe
- Institute of Health Economics, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Elaine Hyshka
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Inner City Health and Wellness, Royal Alexandra Hospital, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Tania Bubela
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada.
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19
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Liu Y, Zou X, Chen W, Gong C, Ling L. Hepatitis C Virus Treatment Status and Barriers among Patients in Methadone Maintenance Treatment Clinics in Guangdong Province, China: A Cross-Sectional, Observational Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16224436. [PMID: 31726750 PMCID: PMC6888391 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16224436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Revised: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
We aimed to evaluate the status and barriers related to hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment among Chinese methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) clients, and the willingness and barriers of patients to accept directly observed treatment (DOT) service and oral direct-acting antivirals (DAAs). We conducted a cross-sectional survey from July to October 2017 in Guangdong Province, China, involving 678 HCV antibody-positive MMT patients. If they reported being infected with HCV, then their HCV treatment experience, willingness to use DOT and DAAs, along with any barriers, were collected. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the correlates of initiating HCV treatment. Among those reporting HCV infection (54%, 366/678), 39% (144/366) initiated treatment; however, 38% (55/144) interrupted and 55% (79/135) delayed treatment for 15 months. Seventy-five percent (273/366) and 53% (195/366) were willing to use DOT and DAAs, respectively. Unaffordable medical costs and insignificant symptoms were the major barriers to HCV treatment and accepting DOT or DAAs. The lack of a stable residence, being a woman, and having ever injected drugs were all associated with a low probability of initiating treatment (p < 0.05). This study highlights a limited uptake of HCV treatment among MMT patients, and a need to strengthen the popularity of DOT and DAAs and integrate them into Chinese MMT clinics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Li Ling
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-020-873-3319
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20
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Lazarus JV, Pericàs JM, Picchio C, Cernosa J, Hoekstra M, Luhmann N, Maticic M, Read P, Robinson EM, Dillon JF. We know DAAs work, so now what? Simplifying models of care to enhance the hepatitis C cascade. J Intern Med 2019; 286:503-525. [PMID: 31472002 DOI: 10.1111/joim.12972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Globally, some 71 million people are chronically infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). Marginalized populations, particularly people who inject drugs (PWID), have low testing, linkage to care and treatment rates for HCV. Several models of care (MoCs) and service delivery interventions have the potential to improve outcomes across the HCV cascade of care, but much of the relevant research was carried out when interferon-based treatment was the standard of care. Often it was not practical to scale-up these earlier models and interventions because the clinical care needs of patients taking interferon-based regimens imposed too much of a financial and human resource burden on health systems. Despite the adoption of highly effective, all-oral direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapies in recent years, approaches to HCV testing and treatment have evolved slowly and often remain rooted in earlier paradigms. The effectiveness of DAAs allows for simpler approaches and has encouraged countries where the drugs are widely available to set their sights on the ambitious World Health Organization (WHO) HCV elimination targets. Since a large proportion of chronically HCV-infected people are not currently accessing treatment, there is an urgent need to identify and implement existing simplified MoCs that speak to specific populations' needs. This article aims to: (i) review the evidence on MoCs for HCV; and (ii) distil the findings into recommendations for how stakeholders can simplify the path taken by chronically HCV-infected individuals from testing to cure and subsequent care and monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- J V Lazarus
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Barcelona, Spain
| | - J M Pericàs
- Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology Territorial Direction, Translational Research Group on Infectious Diseases of Lleida (TRIDLE), Biomedical Research Institute Dr Pifarré Foundation, Lleida, Spain
| | - C Picchio
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Barcelona, Spain
| | - J Cernosa
- Clinic for Infectious Diseases and Febrile Illnesses, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - M Hoekstra
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), Barcelona, Spain
| | - N Luhmann
- Médecins du Monde France, Paris, France
| | - M Maticic
- Clinic for Infectious Diseases and Febrile Illnesses, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - P Read
- Kirketon Road Centre, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - E M Robinson
- Division of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - J F Dillon
- Division of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
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21
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Talal AH, McLeod A, Andrews P, Nieves-McGrath H, Chen Y, Reynolds A, Sylvester C, Dickerson SS, Markatou M, Brown LS. Patient Reaction to Telemedicine for Clinical Management of Hepatitis C Virus Integrated into an Opioid Treatment Program. Telemed J E Health 2019; 25:791-801. [PMID: 30325701 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2018.0161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Introduction: Virtual integration of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection management within the opioid treatment program (OTP) through telemedicine may overcome limited treatment uptake encountered when patients are referred offsite. To evaluate the diffusion of telemedicine within the OTP, we conducted a pilot study to assess acceptance of and satisfaction with telemedicine among 45 HCV-infected opioid use disorder (OUD) patients on methadone.Materials and Methods: We administered a modified 11-item telemedicine satisfaction questionnaire after the initial HCV telemedicine evaluation, when initiating HCV treatment, and 3 months post-HCV treatment completion. Among a patient subset, a semistructured interview further assessed issues of participant referral to the telemedicine program as well as convenience and confidentiality with the telemedicine encounters.Results: Patients demonstrated their acceptance of telemedicine-based encounters by referral of additional participants. They highlighted the convenience of on-site treatment with a liver specialist through recognition of the benefit of "one-stop shopping." They also expressed confidence in the privacy and confidentiality of telemedicine encounters.Discussion: In this pilot study, telemedicine appears to be well accepted as a modality for HCV management among OUD patients on methadone. Virtual integration of medical and behavioral therapy through telemedicine warrants further investigation for its use in this population.Conclusions: In this pilot study, we found that a largely racial minority population of substance users grew to accept telemedicine over time with diminished privacy and confidentiality concerns. Telemedicine was well accepted within the OTP community as reflected by participant referral to the program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew H Talal
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, New York
- START Treatment & Recovery Centers, Brooklyn, New York
| | | | | | - Heidi Nieves-McGrath
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, New York
| | - Yang Chen
- Department of Biostatistics, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, New York
| | | | | | - Suzanne S Dickerson
- School of Nursing, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, New York
| | - Marianthi Markatou
- Department of Biostatistics, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, Buffalo, New York
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22
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Morales-Arraez D, Alonso-Larruga A, Diaz-Flores F, García Dopico JA, de Vera A, Quintero E, Hernández-Guerra M. Predictive factors for not undergoing RNA testing in patients found to have hepatitis C serology and impact of an automatic alert. J Viral Hepat 2019; 26:1117-1123. [PMID: 31077515 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Revised: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The process of diagnosis and linkage to care in cases of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection remains an obstacle to disease control. The aims of this study were to evaluate predictive factors for not undergoing RNA testing among patients with positive HCV serology and impact of incorporating an automated electronic alert with recommendations in clinical practice. We collected HCV antibody tests requested from October 2011 to September 2014 to evaluate the rate of RNA testing and predictive factors for not undergoing RNA testing. Since October 2014, an automated alert notification has been implemented to remind physicians for testing RNA after a positive HCV test and referral to specialist care. 41 403 HCV antibody tests were requested from 34 073 patients. 870 (2.55%) patients tested positive. After a median of follow-up of 57.0 months (range 45.6-82.1), 37.6% did not have RNA testing. The independent predictors for not undergoing RNA testing were primary care serology requests (P < 0.001), no history of drug use (P = 0.005) and a lack of social support (P = 0.015). The intervention impact was evaluated in a pre-alert cohort (October 2011-September 2014) and a post-alert cohort (October 2014-September 2015). After the incorporation of the alert, the rate of RNA testing increased from 62.4% to 77.7% (P < 0.001). Incomplete assessment of HCV infection is a challenge in primary care. The implementation of an automated alert for recommending RNA testing after a positive HCV antibody test is feasible in clinical practice and increases the rate of patients with RNA testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalia Morales-Arraez
- Liver Unit, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, Tenerife, Spain.,Instituto Universitario de Tecnologías Biomédicas CIBICAN, Departamento de Medicina Interna, Psiquiatría y Dermatología, Universidad de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Ana Alonso-Larruga
- Central Laboratory Department, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, Tenerife, Spain
| | | | - Jose A García Dopico
- Central Laboratory Department, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Antonia de Vera
- Central Laboratory Department, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Enrique Quintero
- Liver Unit, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, Tenerife, Spain.,Instituto Universitario de Tecnologías Biomédicas CIBICAN, Departamento de Medicina Interna, Psiquiatría y Dermatología, Universidad de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Manuel Hernández-Guerra
- Liver Unit, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, Tenerife, Spain.,Instituto Universitario de Tecnologías Biomédicas CIBICAN, Departamento de Medicina Interna, Psiquiatría y Dermatología, Universidad de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
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Inglis SK, Beer LJ, Byrne C, Malaguti A, Robinson E, Sharkey C, Gillings K, Stephens B, Dillon JF. Randomised controlled trial conducted in injecting equipment provision sites to compare the effectiveness of different hepatitis C treatment regimens in people who inject drugs: A Direct obserVed therApy versus fortNightly CollEction study for HCV treatment-ADVANCE HCV protocol study. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e029516. [PMID: 31399460 PMCID: PMC6701606 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-029516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Revised: 06/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatitis C is a blood-borne virus (HCV) that can seriously damage the liver and is spread mainly through blood-to-blood contact with an infected person. Over 85% of individuals who have HCV in Scotland became infected following injecting drug use. Since people who inject drugs (PWID) are the main source of new infections, theoretical modelling has suggested that treatment of HCV infection in PWID may effectively reduce HCV prevalence and accomplish elimination. This protocol describes a clinical trial delivering HCV treatment within injecting equipment provision sites (IEPS) in Tayside, Scotland. METHODS AND ANALYSIS PWID attending IEPS are tested for HCV and, if they are chronically infected with HCV and eligible, invited to receive treatment within the IEPS. They are randomised to one of three treatment regimens; daily observed treatment, treatment dispensed every 2 weeks and treatment dispensed every 2 weeks together with an adherence psychological intervention (administered before treatment begins). The primary outcome is comparison of the rate of successful treatment (SVR12) in each treatment group. Secondary analyses include assessment of adherence, reinfection rates, viral resistance to treatment and interaction of the treatment with illicit drugs. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The ADVANCE (A Direct obserVed therApy versus fortNightly CollEction) HCV trial was given favourable opinion by East of Scotland Research Ethics Committee (LR/17/ES/0089) prior to commencement. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBERS European Clinical Trials Database (EudraCT) (2017-001039-38) and ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03236506).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah K Inglis
- Tayside Clinical Trials Unit, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Lewis Jz Beer
- Tayside Clinical Trials Unit, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | | | - Amy Malaguti
- School of Social Sciences (Psychology), University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Emma Robinson
- Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
- Specialist liver service, NHS Tayside, Dundee, UK
| | | | | | | | - John F Dillon
- Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
- Specialist liver service, NHS Tayside, Dundee, UK
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Tai CM, Yen YC, Bair MJ, Tseng CH, Chang TT, Huang CF, Yeh ML, Dai CY, Chuang WL, Yu ML, Huang JF. Integrated care for methadone maintenance patients with hepatitis C virus infection. Kaohsiung J Med Sci 2019; 35:501-507. [PMID: 31087764 DOI: 10.1002/kjm2.12086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The majority of patients undergoing methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) are neither examined nor treated for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. We aimed to evaluate an integrated referral model in the management of HCV among MMT patients. This retrospective study included 390 HCV-infected MMT patients between April 2015 and May 2017. Patients who tested positive for HCV antibodies were referred to a liver clinic by MMT case managers or psychiatrists. Patients who agreed to receive anti-HCV treatment were treated with pegylated interferon and ribavirin. The rate of patient engagement at a liver clinic increased from 14.1% to 58.2% after integrated care. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that higher education level (odds ratio [OR], 1.62; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01-2.60) and elevated ALT level (OR, 4.30; 95% CI, 2.70-6.85) were independently associated with patients who accepted referral. Active drug use (OR, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.31-0.85) was inversely associated with referral acceptance. Of the 112 patients who met the criteria for anti-HCV therapy, 66 (58.9%) were treated with pegylated interferon and ribavirin. Finally, the rate of treatment completion and sustained virological response (SVR) was 65.2% and 54.5%, respectively, among the 66 patients. Treatment completion (OR, 39.67; 95% CI, 7.80-201.62) was found to be the only independent factor associated with SVR achievement. Although integrated care by psychiatrists and hepatologists significantly increased the rates of engagement and acceptance of antiviral treatment for HCV-infected MMT patients, only a minority of MMT patients achieved successful treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi-Ming Tai
- Department of Internal Medicine, E-Da Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Chieh Yen
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Jong Bair
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taitung Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taiwan
- Mackay Medical College, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Hao Tseng
- Department of Internal Medicine, E-Da Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ting-Ting Chang
- Department of Psychiatry, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Feng Huang
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Lun Yeh
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Yen Dai
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Wan-Long Chuang
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Lung Yu
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Faculty of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, and Lipid Science and Aging Research Center, and Center for Infectious Disease and Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Jee-Fu Huang
- Hepatobiliary Division, Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatitis Center, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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Lower HCV treatment uptake in women who have received opioid agonist therapy before and during the DAA era: The ANRS FANTASIO project. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2019; 72:61-68. [PMID: 31129024 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2019.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the era of direct-acting antivirals (DAA) for the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, HCV treatment uptake remains insufficiently documented in key populations such as people with opioid dependence. Access to opioid agonist therapy (OAT) is facilitated in France through delivery in primary care, and individuals with opioid dependence can be identified as those receiving OAT. Women with opioid dependence are especially vulnerable because of associated sex-related stigma, discrimination, and marginalization, all of which negatively interfere with access to HCV prevention and care. This study, based on data collected between 2012 and 2016 in France, aimed to assess whether (i) chronically HCV-infected women with opioid dependence had lower rates of HCV treatment uptake than their male counterparts during the same period (i.e., study period), and (ii) the advent of DAA resulted in increased treatment uptake rates in these women. METHODS Individuals with opioid dependence were identified as those receiving OAT at least once during the study period. Analyses were based on exhaustive anonymous care delivery data from the French national healthcare reimbursement database. We used multinomial logistic regression to estimate sex-based disparities in HCV treatment uptake (DAA or pegylated-interferon (Peg-IFN)-based treatment versus no treatment) while accounting for potential confounders. RESULTS The study sample comprised 27,127 individuals, including 5640 (20.8%) women. Median [interquartile range] age was 45 [40-49] years. Between 2012 and 2016, 70.9 (women: 77.2; men: 69.3), 17.3 (14.2; 18.2) and 11.7% (8.6%; 12.5%) of the study sample received, respectively, no HCV treatment, DAA and Peg-IFN-based treatment only. After multiple adjustment for potential confounders, women were 41% (adjusted odds-ratio (AOR) [95% confidence interval (CI]): 0.59[0.53-0.65]) and 28% (0.72[0.66-0.78]) less likely than men to have had Peg-IFN-based and DAA treatment, respectively. CONCLUSION Despite increased HCV treatment uptake in women with opioid dependence in the DAA era, rates remain lower than for men. In the coming years, access to DAA treatment will continue to increase in France thanks to a forthcoming simplified model of HCV care which includes primary care as an entry point. Nevertheless, a greater understanding of sex-specific barriers to HCV care and the implementation of appropriate sex-specific measures remain a priority.
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Sherman SG, Schneider KE, Park JN, Allen ST, Hunt D, Chaulk CP, Weir BW. PrEP awareness, eligibility, and interest among people who inject drugs in Baltimore, Maryland. Drug Alcohol Depend 2019; 195:148-155. [PMID: 30639794 PMCID: PMC6436943 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2018.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2018] [Revised: 07/28/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Limited research has examined pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) interest among people who inject drugs (PWID). To date, few studies have examined the relationship between PrEP eligibility and PrEP interest among PWID. METHODS Data were from an anonymous, cross-sectional survey of Baltimore Syringe Services Program (SSP) clients and non-client peers, restricted to HIV-uninfected participants (N = 265). Participants were classified as PrEP eligible/ineligible based on injection related criteria outlined in the CDC's PrEP guidelines. Participants were asked if they were previously aware of PrEP, would be interested in taking PrEP, and the ease of taking PrEP daily. Participants self-reported their sociodemographic characteristics, health diagnoses, and recent drug use, overdose, and drug treatment history. We estimated bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models to test for significant predictors of interest in PrEP. RESULTS One-quarter of PWID had previously heard of PrEP and 63% of the sample was interested in taking PrEP. Only two respondents were currently taking PrEP. The majority (89%) thought taking PrEP every day would be easy. In the presence of other variables, PrEP interest was associated with PrEP eligibility (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.46; 95% Confidence Interval [CI]:1.34,4.50) and the number of medical diagnoses (aOR = 1.16; 95% CI:1.01,1.33) CONCLUSIONS: Most PWID were unaware of PrEP but interested in taking it. PWID who were eligible for PrEP are more likely to be interested in taking it. Having co-morbid conditions was an important correlate of PrEP interest. These results underscore the importance of providers across the healthcare sector engaging PWID in discussions about PrEP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan G. Sherman
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA, , , , Corresponding author: Susan G. Sherman, 624 N. Broadway, HH749, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Phone: 410-614-3518; Fax: 410-955-1383
| | - Kristin E. Schneider
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA,
| | - Ju Nyeong Park
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| | - Sean T. Allen
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA, , ,
| | - Derrick Hunt
- Baltimore City Health Department, 1001 East Fayette St, Baltimore, MD, 21202, USA.
| | - C. Patrick Chaulk
- Baltimore City Health Department, 1001 East Fayette St, Baltimore, MD, 21202, ,
| | - Brian W. Weir
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA, , ,
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Determinants of hepatitis C antiviral effectiveness awareness among people who inject drugs in the direct-acting antiviral era. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2019; 52:115-122. [PMID: 29414462 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2017.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2017] [Revised: 12/14/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Although people who inject drugs (PWID) are at greatest risk of hepatitis C (HCV), treatment uptake in this population has historically been low. Highly effective direct acting antiviral (DAA) treatments for HCV have recently become available. Our aim was to assess the awareness among PWID of these new therapies and their effectiveness. METHODS A national survey of PWID attending injecting equipment provision sites in Scotland during 2015-2016 included questions to gauge the awareness in this population of antiviral treatment and the high cure rates associated with new therapies (defined here as >80%). RESULTS Among 2623 PWID, 92% had ever been tested for HCV. After excluding those ever treated for HCV (n = 226), 79% were aware of HCV treatment. Awareness was more likely among those who had ever been tested and self-reported either a positive (adjusted odds ratio: 16.04, 95%CI 10.57-24.33) or negative (3.11, 2.30-4.22) test result, compared to those who were never tested. The minority of all respondents (17%) were aware of high cure rates. This awareness was more likely among those who had ever been in HCV specialist care (9.76, 5.13-18.60) and those who had not been in specialist care but had been tested and self-reported either a positive (3.91, 2.20-7.53) or negative (2.55, 1.35-4.81) test result, compared to those who had never been tested. CONCLUSION We found poor awareness of the high cure rates associated with DAAs among PWID in Scotland, despite relatively high rates of HCV testing in this population. Increased effort is needed to ensure population groups with high risk of HCV infection are fully informed of the highly effective antiviral medications now available to treat this chronic disease.
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Luma HN, Eloumou SA, Noah DN, Eyenga BA, Nko’Ayissi G, Taku TS, Malongue A, Donfack-Sontsa O, Ditah IC. Hepatitis C Continuum of Care in a Treatment Center in Sub-Saharan Africa. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2018; 8:335-341. [PMID: 30563994 PMCID: PMC6286429 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2018.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 01/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major public health challenge in Cameroon with over three million people infected. Government efforts to improve care and treatment are unsatisfactory and need to be assessed. We aimed at studying the several steps along the HCV continuum of care in one of two hepatitis treatment centers in Cameroon. METHODS We undertook a retrospective chart review of anti-HCV positive individuals, who attended the Douala general hospital between 2008 and 2015. We defined the HCV treatment cascade as follows: step 1-HCV RNA testing, step 2-complete pre-therapeutic evaluation (genotyping and liver fibrosis markers), step 3-initiation of treatment, step 4-treatment completion, and step 5-sustained virological response (SRV). Each successive step in the HCV care continuum was dependent on passing through the previous step. RESULTS The mean age of the 669 anti-HCV antibody positive individuals was 57 (sd: ±13) years. Females were 52.8% of the study population. 410 (61.3%) were tested for HCV RNA. Three hundred and sixty-six (54.7%) were confirmed to have viral replication (HCV RNA positive). One hundred and eighty (26.9%) did a complete pre-therapeutic evaluation (both HCV genotyping and liver fibrosis assessment included). Eighty-one (12.1%) initiated treatment with pegylated interferon/ribavirin. Seventy-two (10.8%) completed treatment and 44 (6.6%) had SVR. Sociodemographic characteristics including age, gender, marital status, having medical insurance, and profession were associated with attaining later steps in the care cascade. CONCLUSION This study shows that HCV continuum of care and treatment is less optimal at the Douala general hospital and is highly impacted by socio-economic factors. Continued efforts are needed to improve HCV care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry N. Luma
- Douala General Hospital, Douala, Cameroon
- Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaoundé 1, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Address for correspondence: Henry Namme Luma, P.O. Box 4856, Douala, Cameroon. Fax: +237 243 37 01 46.
| | - Servais A.F.B. Eloumou
- Douala General Hospital, Douala, Cameroon
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Douala, Douala, Cameroon
| | - Dominique N. Noah
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Douala, Douala, Cameroon
| | - B. Aude Eyenga
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Douala, Douala, Cameroon
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Grebely J, Drolet M, Nwankwo C, Torrens M, Kastelic A, Walcher S, Somaini L, Mulvihill E, Ertl J, Liebert R, Litwin AH. Perceptions and self-reported competency related to testing, management and treatment of hepatitis C virus infection among physicians prescribing opioid agonist treatment: The C-SCOPE study. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2018; 63:29-38. [PMID: 30476876 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2018.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Revised: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study evaluated competency related to HCV testing, management and treatment among physicians practicing in clinics offering opioid agonist treatment (OAT). METHODS C-SCOPE is a study consisting of a self-administered survey among physicians practicing at clinics providing OAT in Australia, Canada, Europe and USA between April-May 2017. A 7-point scale was used to measure < average competence (score >4 of 7) related to HCV testing, management and treatment. RESULTS Among 203 physicians (40% USA, 45% Europe, 14% Australia/Canada) 21% were addiction medicine specialists, 29% psychiatrists, and 70% were metro/urban [mean PWID managed, 51; years of experience, 11]. The majority perceived HCV testing (82%) and treatment (85%) among PWID as important. The minority reported < average competence with respect to regular screening (12%) and interpretation of HCV test results (14%), while greater proportions reported < average competence in advising patients about new HCV therapies (28%), knowledge of new treatments (37%), and treatment/management of HCV (40%). In adjusted analysis, factors independently associated with < average self-reported competency related to the ability to treat HCV and manage side effects included fewer years in medical practice, fewer numbers of patients treated for HCV infection in the past six months, not having obtained information on screening, diagnosing or treatment of HCV, not having attended any training on HCV in the past year, and not having read or consulted AASLD/IDSA, EASL or other guidelines for HCV. CONCLUSION Physicians treating HCV infection among PWID attending OAT clinics recognized the importance of HCV testing and treatment. However, self-perceived competency related to HCV management and treatment was low, highlighting the importance of improved HCV education and training among physicians practicing in clinics offering OAT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
| | | | | | - Martha Torrens
- Department of Psychiatry, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Institut de Neuropsiquiatria i Addiccions, Hospital del Mar, Barcelona, IMIM (Institut Hospital del Mar d'Investigacions Mediques), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Andrej Kastelic
- National Centre for the Treatment of Drug Addiction in Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | | | - Lorenzo Somaini
- Addiction Treatment Centre - Ser.D ASL BI - Local Health Unit, Biella, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Alain H Litwin
- University of South Carolina School of Medicine - Greenville, Greenville, SC, USA; Greenville Health System, Department of Medicine, Greenville, SC, USA; Clemson University School of Health Research, Clemson, SC, USA
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Bajis S, Maher L, Treloar C, Hajarizadeh B, Lamoury FMJ, Mowat Y, Schulz M, Marshall AD, Cunningham EB, Cock V, Ezard N, Gorton C, Hayllar J, Smith J, Whelan M, Martinello M, Applegate TL, Dore GJ, Grebely J. Acceptability and preferences of point-of-care finger-stick whole-blood and venepuncture hepatitis C virus testing among people who inject drugs in Australia. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2018; 61:23-30. [PMID: 30388566 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2018.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2017] [Revised: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 08/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uptake of hepatitis C virus (HCV) testing remains inadequate globally. Simplified point-of-care tests should enhance HCV diagnosis and elimination. We aimed to assess the acceptability of finger-stick and venepuncture HCV RNA testing among people who inject drugs (PWID). METHODS Participants were enrolled in an observational cohort study with recruitment at 13 sites between June 2016 and February 2018. Capillary whole-blood collected by finger-stick and plasma collected by venepuncture were performed for Xpert® HCV viral load testing. Participants completed a questionnaire on acceptability of, and preferences for, blood collection methods. RESULTS Among 565 participants (mean age, 44 years; 69% male), 64% reported injecting drugs in the last month, and 63% were receiving opioid substitution treatment. Eighty three percent reported that finger-stick testing was very acceptable. Overall, 65% of participants preferred finger-stick over venepuncture testing, with 61% of these preferring to receive results in 60 min. The most common reason for preferring finger-stick over venepuncture testing was it was quick (62%) followed by venous access difficulties (21%). The main reasons for preferring venepuncture over finger-stick testing were that it was quick (61%) and accurate (29%). Females were more likely to prefer finger-stick testing than males (adjusted OR 1.96; 95% CI 1.30, 2.99; p = 0.002). Among people with recent (previous month) injecting drug use, Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people were less likely than non-Aboriginal people to prefer finger-stick testing (adjusted OR 0.57; 95% CI 0.34, 0.9; p = 0.033). CONCLUSIONS Finger-stick whole-blood collection is acceptable to people who inject drugs, with males and Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people with recent injecting drug use less likely to prefer finger-stick testing. Further research is needed to evaluate interventions integrating simplified point-of-care HCV testing to engage people in care in a single-visit, thereby facilitating HCV treatment scale-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Bajis
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Lisa Maher
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; The Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Carla Treloar
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | | | - Yasmin Mowat
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Marcel Schulz
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Alison D Marshall
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Evan B Cunningham
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Victoria Cock
- Drug and Alcohol Services of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Nadine Ezard
- Alcohol and Drug Service, St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Carla Gorton
- Cairns Sexual Health Service, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jeremy Hayllar
- Alcohol and Drug Service, Metro North Mental Health, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Julie Smith
- Matthew Talbot Hostel, St Vincent de Paul Society NSW Support Services, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michelle Whelan
- Campbelltown Drug Health Services, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Tanya L Applegate
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Gregory J Dore
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jason Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Aluzaite K, Tewhaiti-Smith J, Fraser M, Johnson S, Glen E, Beck A, Smith B, Dummer J, Schultz M. A liver health hui: hepatitis C knowledge and associated risk factors in New Zealand gang members and their families. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2018; 5:172167. [PMID: 30224989 PMCID: PMC6124044 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.172167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2017] [Accepted: 08/03/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and B virus (HBV) infections are highly prevalent, with a high percentage of undiagnosed cases. Knowledge of HCV and its modes of transmission are essential for disease prevention and management. We studied a high-risk New Zealand gang population on viral hepatitis prevalence, their level of knowledge and the liver health risk factors in a community setting. Participants completed demographic, risk factor and knowledge questionnaires in three health meetings in New Zealand. Participants' blood samples were tested for HBV, HCV, biochemical indicators of liver disease. Liver fibrosis levels were assessed using a Fibroscan® device. We studied 52 adult Mongrel Mob members, affiliates and whānau (extended family) throughout New Zealand. We identified no HCV and two HBV cases, confirmed high-risk factor levels and poor associated knowledge, with a significant association between lack of knowledge and presence of specific risk factors. We successfully conducted a community-focused, high-risk, hard-to-reach gang population study, and found a link between lack of knowledge and risk factors for HCV infection. This study provided first-of-its-kind data on viral hepatitis in a gang population and demonstrated the need for educational screening programmes to aid early HCV detection, prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Aluzaite
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago, PO Box 913, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | | | - Margaret Fraser
- Gastroenterology Unit, Southern District Health Board, Dunedin Hospital, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Steve Johnson
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago, PO Box 913, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
- Gastroenterology Unit, Southern District Health Board, Dunedin Hospital, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Elizabeth Glen
- Gastroenterology Unit, Southern District Health Board, Dunedin Hospital, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Allison Beck
- Otago Hepatitis C Resource Centre, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Barbara Smith
- Dunedin Intravenous Organization Needle Exchange, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Jack Dummer
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago, PO Box 913, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
| | - Michael Schultz
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago, PO Box 913, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand
- Gastroenterology Unit, Southern District Health Board, Dunedin Hospital, Dunedin, New Zealand
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Høj SB, Minoyan N, Artenie AA, Grebely J, Bruneau J. The role of prevention strategies in achieving HCV elimination in Canada: what are the remaining challenges? CANADIAN LIVER JOURNAL 2018; 1:4-13. [PMID: 35990720 PMCID: PMC9202798 DOI: 10.3138/canlivj.1.2.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2018] [Accepted: 03/14/2018] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Background The worldwide economic, health, and social consequences of drug use disorders are devastating. Injection drug use is now a major factor contributing to hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission globally, and it is an important public health concern. Methods This article presents a narrative review of scientific evidence on public health strategies for HCV prevention among people who inject drugs (PWID) in Canada. Results A combination of public health strategies including timely HCV detection and harm reduction (mostly needle and syringe programmes and opioid substitution therapy) have helped to reduce HCV transmission among PWID. The rising prevalence of pharmaceutical opioid and methamphetamine use and associated HCV risk in several Canadian settings has prompted further innovation in harm reduction, including supervised injection facilities and low-threshold opioid substitution therapies. Further significant decreases in HCV incidence and prevalence, and in corresponding disease burden, can only be accomplished by reducing transmission among high-risk persons and enhancing access to HCV treatment for those at the greatest risk of disease progression or viral transmission. Highly effective and tolerable direct-acting antiviral therapies have transformed the landscape for HCV-infected patients and are a valuable addition to the prevention toolkit. Curing HCV-infected persons, and thus eliminating new infections, is now a real possibility. Conclusions Prevention strategies have not yet ended HCV transmission, and sharing of injecting equipment among PWID continues to challenge the World Health Organization goal of eliminating HCV as a global public health threat by 2030. Future needs for research, intervention implementation, and uptake in Canada are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stine Bordier Høj
- Research Centre of the Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Family and Emergency Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Nanor Minoyan
- Research Centre of the Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Andreea Adelina Artenie
- Research Centre of the Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Jason Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Julie Bruneau
- Research Centre of the Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Family and Emergency Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
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Guise A, Witzel TC, Mandal S, Sabin C, Rhodes T, Nardone A, Harris M. A qualitative assessment of the acceptability of hepatitis C remote self-testing and self-sampling amongst people who use drugs in London, UK. BMC Infect Dis 2018; 18:281. [PMID: 29914381 PMCID: PMC6006927 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-018-3185-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 06/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis C (HCV) diagnosis and care is a major challenge for people who use illicit drugs, and is characterised by low rates of testing and treatment engagement globally. New approaches to fostering engagement are needed. We explored the acceptability of remote forms of HCV testing including self-testing and self-sampling among people who use drugs in London, UK. Methods A qualitative rapid assessment was undertaken with people who use drugs and stakeholders in London, UK. Focus groups were held with men who have sex with men engaged in drug use, people who currently inject drugs and people who formerly injected drugs (22 participants across the 3 focus groups). Stakeholders participated in semi-structured interviews (n = 5). We used a thematic analysis to report significant themes in participants’ responses. Results We report an overarching theme of ‘tension’ in how participants responded to the acceptability of remote testing. This tension is evident across four separate sub-themes we explore. First, choice and control, with some valuing the autonomy and privacy remote testing could support. Second, the ease of use of self testing linked to its immediate result and saliva sample was preferred over the delayed result from a self administered blood sample tested in a laboratory. Third, many respondents described the need to embed remote testing within a supportive care pathway. Fourth, were concerns over managing a positive result, and its different meanings, in isolation. Conclusions The concept of remote HCV testing is acceptable to some people who use drugs in London, although tensions with lived experience of drug use and health system access limit its relevance. Future development of remote testing must respond to concerns raised in order for acceptable implementation to take place.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andy Guise
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK. .,School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, Guy's campus, King's College London, Addison House, London, UK.
| | - T Charles Witzel
- SIGMA Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Tavistock Place, London, UK
| | - Sema Mandal
- Public Health England, Wellington House, Waterloo Road, London, UK.,National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Protection Research Unit (HPRU) in Blood Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections at UCL in collaboration with Public Health England, London, UK
| | - Caroline Sabin
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Protection Research Unit (HPRU) in Blood Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections at UCL in collaboration with Public Health England, London, UK. .,Institute for Global Health, UCL, London, UK.
| | - Tim Rhodes
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.,National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Protection Research Unit (HPRU) in Blood Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections at UCL in collaboration with Public Health England, London, UK
| | - Anthony Nardone
- Public Health England, Wellington House, Waterloo Road, London, UK.,National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Protection Research Unit (HPRU) in Blood Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections at UCL in collaboration with Public Health England, London, UK
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Boglione L, Mornese Pinna S, De Nicolò A, Cusato J, Cariti G, Di Perri G, D'Avolio A. Treatment with direct-acting antiviral agents of hepatitis C virus infection in injecting drug users: A prospective study. J Viral Hepat 2017; 24:850-857. [PMID: 28345206 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.12711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 02/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
In this prospective study, we evaluated the effectiveness and tolerability of novel therapies against hepatitis C virus (HCV) in a cohort of PWID enrolled at our centre from April 2015 to July 2016. In this analysis, a total of 174 patients were included: eleven (6.3%) were treated with pegylated interferon (PEG-IFN) and ribavirin (RBV) containing regimens, 163 (93.7%) with IFN-free treatments. RBV has been used in 70 patients (40.2%); 59 (33.9%) patients were in opioid substitution therapy (OST) with methadone or buprenorphine. Overall, sustained virological response (SVR) has been observed in 162 subject (93.1%), breakthrough (BT) in three (1.7%), relapse in one (0.6%) and dropout in eight (4.6%). Treatment was interrupted for clinical conditions in seven patients: six (3.4%) had hepatic decompensation and one died for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In multivariate analysis, predictive factors of treatment failure were as follows: albumin level below 3 g/dL (OR=7.190; 95% IC=1.236-41.837; P<.001), MELD score >10 (OR=5.886; 95% IC=1.411-35.994; P<.001) and years of HCV infection >20 (OR=1.286; 95% IC=0.556-9.455; P=.016). In conclusion, treatment with DAAs was effective and well tolerated in PWID; cirrhotic subjects with MELD > 10 and albumin low level showed a higher risk of developing serious adverse events and treatment failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Boglione
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, University of Turin, Department of Medical Sciences, Amedeo di Savoia Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - S Mornese Pinna
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, University of Turin, Department of Medical Sciences, Amedeo di Savoia Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - A De Nicolò
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, University of Turin, Department of Medical Sciences, Amedeo di Savoia Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - J Cusato
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, University of Turin, Department of Medical Sciences, Amedeo di Savoia Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - G Cariti
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, University of Turin, Department of Medical Sciences, Amedeo di Savoia Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - G Di Perri
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, University of Turin, Department of Medical Sciences, Amedeo di Savoia Hospital, Turin, Italy
| | - A D'Avolio
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, University of Turin, Department of Medical Sciences, Amedeo di Savoia Hospital, Turin, Italy
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Socías ME, Ti L, Dong H, Shoveller J, Kerr T, Montaner J, Milloy MJ. High prevalence of willingness to use direct-acting antiviral-based regimens for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection among HIV/HCV coinfected people who use drugs. HIV Med 2017; 18:647-654. [PMID: 28294492 PMCID: PMC5819997 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.12501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/03/2016] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Despite the high burden of hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related morbidity and mortality among HIV-positive people who use illicit drugs (PWUD), uptake of interferon-based treatments for HCV infection has been negligible among this group. Direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapies offer an opportunity to expand treatment access among this population. The aim of this study was to explore willingness to use DAA-based regimens among HIV/HCV-coinfected PWUD in Vancouver, Canada. METHODS Data were drawn from the AIDS Care Cohort to evaluate Exposure to Survival Services (ACCESS), a prospective cohort of HIV-positive PWUD. Using logistic regression analyses, we investigated factors associated with willingness to use DAA-based regimens among HIV/HCV-coinfected participants. RESULTS Of 418 HIV/HCV-coinfected PWUD surveyed between June 2014 and May 2015, 295 (71%) were willing to use DAA-based regimens. In multivariable analysis, participants enrolled in methadone maintenance therapy [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 1.61; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.04-2.51], those with a recent assessment by an HCV specialist (AOR 2.02; 95% CI 1.28-3.19) and those who perceived that HCV infection was affecting their health (AOR 2.49; 95% CI 1.41-4.37) were more likely to be willing to use DAA-based regimens. CONCLUSIONS Overall, this study found a high prevalence of willingness to use DAA-based regimens among HIV/HCV-coinfected PWUD in Vancouver. Importantly, enrolment in methadone maintenance therapy was positively associated with willingness, suggesting that integrated models of HIV, HCV and addiction care should be explored as a way to address HCV-related morbidity and mortality among HIV/HCV-coinfected PWUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Eugenia Socías
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6Z 1Y6
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul’s Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6Z 1Y6
| | - Lianping Ti
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6Z 1Y6
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul’s Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6Z 1Y6
| | - Huiru Dong
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6Z 1Y6
| | - Jean Shoveller
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6Z 1Y6
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, 2206 East Mall, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z3
| | - Thomas Kerr
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6Z 1Y6
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul’s Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6Z 1Y6
| | - Julio Montaner
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6Z 1Y6
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul’s Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6Z 1Y6
| | - M-J Milloy
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, St. Paul’s Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6Z 1Y6
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul’s Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6Z 1Y6
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Butler K, Day C, Sutherland R, van Buskirk J, Breen C, Burns L, Larney S. Hepatitis C testing in general practice settings: A cross-sectional study of people who inject drugs in Australia. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2017; 47:102-106. [PMID: 28789820 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2017.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Revised: 06/22/2017] [Accepted: 07/10/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Bajis S, Dore GJ, Hajarizadeh B, Cunningham EB, Maher L, Grebely J. Interventions to enhance testing, linkage to care and treatment uptake for hepatitis C virus infection among people who inject drugs: A systematic review. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2017; 47:34-46. [PMID: 28797498 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2017.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2017] [Revised: 06/17/2017] [Accepted: 07/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Midgard H, Hajarizadeh B, Cunningham EB, Conway B, Backmund M, Bruggmann P, Bruneau J, Bourgeois S, Dunlop A, Foster GR, Hellard M, Robaeys G, Thurnheer MC, Weltman M, Amin J, Marks PS, Quiene S, Dore GJ, Dalgard O, Grebely J. Changes in risk behaviours during and following treatment for hepatitis C virus infection among people who inject drugs: The ACTIVATE study. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2017. [PMID: 28633998 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2017.05.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The risk of hepatitis C virus (HCV) reinfection due to continued injecting risk behaviours might remain a barrier to HCV treatment among people who inject drugs. We aimed to evaluate changes in risk behaviours during and following HCV treatment among people with ongoing injecting drug use or receiving opioid substitution treatment (OST). METHODS ACTIVATE was an international multicentre clinical trial conducted between 2012 and 2014. Participants with HCV genotypes 2/3 infection were treated with peg-interferon/ribavirin for 12 or 24 weeks and completed a self-administered behavioural questionnaire at each study visit. The impact of time in treatment and follow-up on longitudinally measured recent (past month) behavioural outcomes was evaluated using generalized estimating equations. RESULTS Among 93 enrolled participants (83% male, median age 41 years), 55 (59%) had injected in the past month. Any injecting drug use decreased during HCV treatment and follow-up (OR 0.89 per incremental study visit; 95% CI 0.83-0.95). No significant changes were found in ≥daily injecting (OR 0.98; 95% CI 0.89-1.07), use of non-sterile needles (OR 0.94; 95% CI 0.79-1.12), sharing of injecting paraphernalia (OR 0.87; 95% CI 0.70-1.07) or non-injecting drug use (OR 1.01; 95% CI 0.92-1.10). Hazardous alcohol use decreased throughout (OR 0.56; 95% CI 0.40-0.77) and OST increased between enrolment and end of treatment (OR 1.48; 95% CI 1.07-2.04). CONCLUSIONS Recent injecting drug use and hazardous alcohol use decreased, while OST increased during and following HCV treatment among participants with ongoing injecting drug use. These findings support further expansion of HCV care among PWID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Håvard Midgard
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway; The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Australia; Department of Gastroenterology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.
| | | | | | - Brian Conway
- Vancouver Infectious Diseases Center, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | | | - Julie Bruneau
- CHUM Research Center, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
| | | | - Adrian Dunlop
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Graham R Foster
- The Liver Unit, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Geert Robaeys
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ziekenhuis Oost Limburg, Genk, Belgium; Department of Hepatology, UZ Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Limburg Clinical Research Program, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Maria C Thurnheer
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital and University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Janaki Amin
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Australia; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Olav Dalgard
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway
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Souliotis K, Agapidaki E, Papageorgiou M, Voudouri N, Contiades X. Access to treatment for Hepatitis C among injection drug users: results from the cross-sectional HOPE IV study. Int J Equity Health 2017; 16:101. [PMID: 28615023 PMCID: PMC5471999 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-017-0601-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2016] [Accepted: 06/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Evidence suggests that Greece is among the European countries with increased trend in HCV prevalence among injecting drug users (IDUs) from 2008 to 2014. Nonetheless, the access of IDUs to treatment for Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) is very limited while the risk of co-infection and transmission remains high. In an effort to better understand the inhibitors to HCV treatment, the present study aimed to investigate the main barriers to access in a sample of IDUs. Methods The cross-sectional study was carried out between July and September 2015 using a 23-items questionnaire. Participants were recruited from urban primary services, mobile health vans, community health services, day-care centers as well as during street work, located in Athens, Greece. Inclusion criteria were age above 18 years, understanding and speaking Greek sufficiently, HCV diagnosis, intravenous drug use. Data collection was carried out by health professionals of Praksis, a non-governmental organization. For the comparisons of proportions chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests were used. Results The study sample consisted of 101 HCV patients, 68% male. More than 80% of study participants experienced barriers in accessing their doctor and medication during the past 12 months. The most common obstacles in accessing a doctor were “delay in making the appointment and “difficulties in going to the doctor due to health condition or lack of means of transport”. Access to physician or medication was not differed according to gender, but significant differences were found according to economic status and health insurance coverage. 56.1% of participants reported loss or treatment delay due to barriers to treatment. The majority of participants had deteriorated financial status, health status, access to health services and medication, higher financial burden for health services, worse mental health and lower adherence to medical instructions in 2015 compared to 2009. Conclusions The findings from the present study revealed that the vast majority of IDUs experience significant barriers in seeking HCV care in Greece, thus highlighting the need for immediate action in this particular area due to the high risk of co-infection and transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyriakos Souliotis
- Department of Social and Education Policy, University of Peloponnese, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Damaskinou & Kolokotroni Str, 20100, Corinth, Greece. .,Health Policy Institute, 36-38, Amaryssias Artemidos Str, 15124, Athens, Greece.
| | - Eirini Agapidaki
- Health Policy Institute, 36-38, Amaryssias Artemidos Str, 15124, Athens, Greece
| | - Manto Papageorgiou
- Department of Social and Education Policy, University of Peloponnese, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Damaskinou & Kolokotroni Str, 20100, Corinth, Greece
| | - Niki Voudouri
- Praksis, Independent Non-Governmental Organization, 57 Stournari Str, 10432, Athens, Greece
| | - Xenophon Contiades
- Department of Social and Education Policy, University of Peloponnese, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Damaskinou & Kolokotroni Str, 20100, Corinth, Greece.,Centre for European Constitutional Law, Athens, Greece
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Crowley D, Cullen W, Laird E, Lambert JS, Mc Hugh T, Murphy C, Van Hout MC. Exploring Patient Characteristics and Barriers to Hepatitis C Treatment in Patients on Opioid Substitution Treatment Attending a Community Based Fibro-scanning Clinic. J Transl Int Med 2017; 5:112-119. [PMID: 28721344 PMCID: PMC5506411 DOI: 10.1515/jtim-2017-0017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major public health issue. There is substandard uptake in HCV assessment and treatment among people who inject drugs (PWID). Community fibroscanning is used to assess disease severity and target treatment. METHODS A survey was administered to a cohort of chronically HCV infected patients attending a community fibroscanning clinic. Questions targeted diagnosis of HCV, suitability, willingness and barriers to engagement in treatment. Descriptive and regression analysis, with thematic analysis of open-ended data was conducted. RESULTS There was high acceptance of community fibroscanning among this cohort with over 90% (68) attending. High levels of unemployment (90%) and homelessness (40%) were identified. Most patients were on methadone treatment and had been HCV infected for greater than 10 years with length of time since HCV diagnosis being significantly longer in patients with fibroscan scores > 8.5 kPa (P = 0.016). With each unit increase in methadone dose, the odds of the >8.5 fibroscan group increased by 5.2%. Patient identified barriers to engagement were alcohol and drug use, fear of HCV treatment and liver biopsy, imprisonment, distance to hospital and early morning appointments. CONCLUSION The study highlights the usefulness of community fibroscanning. Identifying barriers to treatment in this cohort affords an opportunity to increase the treatment uptake. The availability of afternoon clinics and enhanced prison linkage are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Eamon Laird
- Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, Dublin2, Ireland
| | - John S Lambert
- Infectious Disease Department, Mater Hospital, Dublin7, Ireland
| | | | - Carol Murphy
- Infectious Disease Department, Mater Hospital, Dublin7, Ireland
| | - Marie Claire Van Hout
- Public Health Institute, Liverpool John Moore’s University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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Machado SM, Almeida CD, Pinho JRR, Malta FDM, Capuani L, Campos AF, Abreu FRM, Nastri ACDSS, Santana RAF, Sabino EC, Mendes-Correa MC. Hepatitis C among blood donors: cascade of care and predictors of loss to follow-up. Rev Saude Publica 2017; 51:40. [PMID: 28489184 PMCID: PMC5396505 DOI: 10.1590/s1518-8787.2017051006468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2015] [Accepted: 03/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the HCV cascade of care and to identify the factors associated with loss or absence to follow-up of patients identified as infected with hepatitis C through blood donation. METHODS Blood donors from 1994 to 2012, identified with positive anti- HCV by enzyme immunoassay and immunoblot tests were invited to participate in the study, through letters or phone calls. Patients who agreed to participate were interviewed and their blood samples were collected for further testing. The following variables were investigated: demographic data, data on comorbidities and history concerning monitoring of hepatitis C. Multiple regression analysis by Poisson regression model was used to investigate the factors associated with non-referral for consultation or loss of follow-up. RESULTS Of the 2,952 HCV-infected blood donors, 22.8% agreed to participate: 394 (58.2%) male, median age 48 years old and 364 (53.8%) Caucasian. Of the 676 participants, 39.7% did not receive proper follow-up or treatment after diagnosis: 45 patients referred not to be aware they were infected, 61 did not seek medical attention and 163 started a follow-up program, but were non-adherent. The main reasons for inadequate follow-up were not understanding the need for medical care (71%) and health care access difficulties (14%). The variables showing a significant association with inadequate follow-up after multiple regression analysis were male gender (PR = 1.40; 95%CI 1.15–1.71), age under or equal to 50 years (PR = 1.36; 95%CI 1.12–1.65) and non-Caucasians (PR = 1.53; 95%CI 1.27–1.84). CONCLUSIONS About 40.0% of patients did not receive appropriate follow-up. These data reinforce the need to establish strong links between primary care and reference centers and the need to improve access to specialists and treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soraia Mafra Machado
- Departamento de Moléstias Infecciosas e Parasitárias. Faculdade de Medicina. Universidade de São Paulo. São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - Cesar de Almeida
- Fundação Pró-Sangue. Hemocentro de São Paulo. São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - João Renato Rebello Pinho
- Laboratório de Gastroenterologia e Hepatologia Tropical "João Alves de Queiroz e Castorina Bittencourt Alves" (LIM-07). Instituto de Medicina Tropical. Departamento de Gastroenterologia. Faculdade de Medicina. Universidade de São Paulo. São Paulo, Brasil.,Albert Einstein Medicina Diagnóstica. Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein. São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - Fernanda de Mello Malta
- Laboratório de Gastroenterologia e Hepatologia Tropical "João Alves de Queiroz e Castorina Bittencourt Alves" (LIM-07). Instituto de Medicina Tropical. Departamento de Gastroenterologia. Faculdade de Medicina. Universidade de São Paulo. São Paulo, Brasil
| | - Ligia Capuani
- Departamento de Moléstias Infecciosas e Parasitárias. Faculdade de Medicina. Universidade de São Paulo. São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - Aléia Faustina Campos
- Departamento de Moléstias Infecciosas e Parasitárias. Faculdade de Medicina. Universidade de São Paulo. São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - Fatima Regina Marques Abreu
- Departamento de Moléstias Infecciosas e Parasitárias. Faculdade de Medicina. Universidade de São Paulo. São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | | | | | - Ester Cerdeira Sabino
- Departamento de Moléstias Infecciosas e Parasitárias. Faculdade de Medicina. Universidade de São Paulo. São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - Maria Cássia Mendes-Correa
- Departamento de Moléstias Infecciosas e Parasitárias. Faculdade de Medicina. Universidade de São Paulo. São Paulo, SP, Brasil.,Laboratório de Virologia (LIM-52). Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo. Departamento de Moléstias Infecciosas e Parasitárias. Faculdade de Medicina. Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brasil
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Lafferty L, Treloar C, Guthrie J, Chambers GM, Butler T. Social capital strategies to enhance hepatitis C treatment awareness and uptake among men in prison. J Viral Hepat 2017; 24:111-116. [PMID: 27778436 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.12627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2016] [Accepted: 08/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Prisoner populations are characterized by high rates of hepatitis C (HCV), up to thirty times that of the general population in Australia. Within Australian prisons, less than 1% of eligible inmates access treatment. Public health strategies informed by social capital could be important in addressing this inequality in access to HCV treatment. Twenty-eight male inmates participated in qualitative interviews across three correctional centres in New South Wales, Australia. All participants had recently tested as HCV RNA positive or were receiving HCV treatment. Analysis was conducted with participants including men with experiences of HCV treatment (n=10) (including those currently accessing treatment and those with a history of treatment) and those who were treatment naïve (n=18). Social capital was a resourceful commodity for inmates considering and undergoing treatment while in custody. Inmates were a valuable resource for information regarding HCV treatment, including personal accounts and reassurance (bonding social capital), while nurses a resource for the provision of information and care (linking social capital). Although linking social capital between inmates and nurses appeared influential in HCV treatment access, there remained opportunities for increasing linking social capital within the prison setting (such as nurse-led engagement within the prisons). Bonding and linking social capital can be valuable resources in promoting HCV treatment awareness, uptake and adherence. Peer-based programmes are likely to be influential in promoting HCV outcomes in the prison setting. Engagement in prisons, outside of the clinics, would enhance opportunities for linking social capital to influence HCV treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Lafferty
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - C Treloar
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - J Guthrie
- The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - G M Chambers
- National Perinatal Epidemiology and Statistics Unit, UNSW Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - T Butler
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Australia, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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HCV prevalence and risk behaviours among injectors of new psychoactive substances in a risk environment in Hungary-An expanding public health burden. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2016; 41:1-7. [PMID: 27984762 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2016.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2016] [Revised: 10/31/2016] [Accepted: 11/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Hungary a large increase in injecting new psychoactive substances (NPS) coincided with decreasing harm reduction efforts and rising HCV infection. We describe these, and assess changes in HCV prevalence and risk behaviours, 2011-2014, among NPS injectors, using 2011-2015 syringe exchange programme (SEP) data as a key contextual ('risk environment') variable. METHODS We conducted repeated national sero-behavioural surveys in people who inject drugs (PWID) injecting in the last month and attending SEPs or drug treatment centres (n=399, 2011; 384, 2014), using face-to-face interviews and dried blood-spot samples. Prevalence of injected drugs and SEP coverage (2011-2015) were assessed through our national SEP monitoring system and using population size estimates. RESULTS NPS injecting tripled among PWID attending SEPs in Hungary (2011: 26%; 2015: 80%). Among NPS injectors, HCV prevalence, sharing syringes and sharing any injecting equipment (last month), doubled (2011-2014: 37%-74%, 20%-48%, 42%-71%, respectively), significantly exceeding prevalence in other PWID groups. Among young NPS injectors (aged<25), HCV prevalence increased 7-fold (12%-76%), among new injectors (injecting<2years) 4-fold (13%-42%), coupled with high levels of equipment sharing (79% and 72% respectively). Not using a condom at last intercourse (79%), ever-imprisonment (65%) and last-year homelessness (57%) were highly prevalent among NPS injectors (2014). The number of syringes distributed per estimated PWID nationally fell from 114 to 81 (2011-2014) and dropped to 28 in 2015. CONCLUSION NPS injectors in Hungary are at severe risk of blood-borne infections due to high levels of injecting and sexual risk behaviours within a high-risk environment, including continuously low SEP provision, imprisonment and homelessness. An HIV outbreak cannot be excluded. Stronger investment in evidence-based prevention measures, with special focus on young and new injectors, and expansion of hepatitis C treatment are urgently needed.
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Tsui JI, Mirzazadeh A, Hahn JA, Maher L, Bruneau J, Grebely J, Hellard M, Kim AY, Shoukry NH, Cox AL, Prins M, Dore G, Lauer G, Lloyd A, Page K, on behalf of the InC3 Collaborative. The effects of alcohol on spontaneous clearance of acute hepatitis C virus infection in females versus males. Drug Alcohol Depend 2016; 169:156-162. [PMID: 27816863 PMCID: PMC5328754 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2016.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2016] [Revised: 10/11/2016] [Accepted: 10/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Approximately one quarter of persons exposed to hepatitis C virus (HCV) will spontaneously clear infection. We undertook this study to investigate the impact of alcohol on likelihood of HCV spontaneous viral clearance stratified by sex groups. METHODS Pooled data from an international collaboration of prospective observational studies of incident HIV and HCV infection in high-risk cohorts (the InC3 Study) was restricted to 411 persons (or 560.7 person-years of observation) with documented acute HCV infection and data regarding alcohol use. The predictor of interest was self-reported alcohol use at or after estimated date of incident HCV infection and the outcome was HCV spontaneous clearance. Sex stratified Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate the association between alcohol and spontaneous clearance, adjusting for age, race/ethnicity, and IFNL4 genotype. RESULTS The median age was 28.5 years, 30.4% were women, 87.2% were white, and 71.8% reported alcohol use at or after incident infection. There were 89 (21.6%) cases of spontaneous clearance observed, 39 (31.2%) among women and 50 (17.5%) in men (p<0.01). Overall, spontaneous clearance occurred less frequently among participants who drank alcohol compared to those who did not drink (18.9% v. 28.5%, p=0.03). After adjustment for other covariates, alcohol was significantly and independently associated with lower relative hazards for spontaneous clearance of HCV in women (AHR=0.35; 95% CI: 0.19-0.66; p=0.001) but not in men (AHR=0.63; 95% CI: 0.36-1.09; p=0.10). CONCLUSION Results indicate that abstaining from drinking alcohol may increase the likelihood of spontaneous clearance among women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith I. Tsui
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, 325 9th Avenue Seattle, WA 98104, USA,Corresponding author (JT)
| | - Ali Mirzazadeh
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, 550 16th Street, Second Floor, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Judith A. Hahn
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, 550 16th Street, Second Floor, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, 3333 California Street, Suite 430, San Francisco, CA 94118, USA
| | - Lisa Maher
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Wallace Wurth Building, UNSW Australia, Sydney NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Julie Bruneau
- Centre de Recherche du CHUM, Université de Montréal, 900 Rue Saint-Denis, Montréal, QC H2X 0A9, Canada
| | - Jason Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Wallace Wurth Building, UNSW Australia, Sydney NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Margaret Hellard
- Burnet Institute, 85 Commercial Rd, Melbourne VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Arthur Y. Kim
- Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Naglaa H. Shoukry
- Centre de Recherche du CHUM, Université de Montréal, 900 Rue Saint-Denis, Montréal, QC H2X 0A9, Canada
| | - Andrea L. Cox
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, 1830 E. Monument Street, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Maria Prins
- Cluster Infectious Diseases, GGD Public Health Service of Amsterdam, Nieuwe Achtergracht 100, 1018 WT Amsterdam, Postbus 2200, 1000 CE Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gregory Dore
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Wallace Wurth Building, UNSW Australia, Sydney NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Georg Lauer
- Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck St, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Andrew Lloyd
- University of New South Wales, School of Medical Sciences, Wallace Wurth Building, UNSW Australia, Sydney NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Kimberly Page
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Preventive Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, 1 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131 USA
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Midgard H, Bramness JG, Skurtveit S, Haukeland JW, Dalgard O. Hepatitis C Treatment Uptake among Patients Who Have Received Opioid Substitution Treatment: A Population-Based Study. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0166451. [PMID: 27846264 PMCID: PMC5112941 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0166451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2016] [Accepted: 10/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS There is limited data on hepatitis C (HCV) treatment uptake among people who inject drugs including individuals receiving opioid substitution treatment (OST). We aimed to calculate cumulative HCV treatment uptake, estimate annual treatment rates, and identify factors associated with HCV treatment among individuals who have received OST in Norway. METHODS This observational study was based on linked data from The Norwegian Prescription Database and The Norwegian Surveillance System for Communicable Diseases between 2004 and 2013. Both registries have national coverage. From a total of 9919 individuals who had been dispensed OST (methadone, buprenorphine or buprenorphine-naloxone), we included 3755 individuals who had been notified with HCV infection. In this population, dispensions of HCV treatment (pegylated interferon and ribavirin), benzodiazepines, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and antipsychotics were studied. RESULTS Among 3755 OST patients notified with HCV infection, 539 (14%) had received HCV treatment during the study period. Annual HCV treatment rates during OST ranged between 1.3% (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.7-2.2) in 2005 and 2.6% (95% CI 1.9-3.5) in 2008 with no significant changes over time. HCV treatment uptake was not associated with age or gender, but associated with duration of active OST (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.11 per year; 95% CI 1.07-1.15), high (> 80%) OST continuity (aOR 1.62; 95% CI 1.17-2.25), and heavy benzodiazepine use (aOR 0.65; 95% CI 0.49-0.87). CONCLUSIONS Cumulative HCV treatment uptake among OST patients notified with HCV infection in Norway between 2004 and 2013 was 14%. Annual treatment rates during OST remained unchanged below 3% per year. High continuity of OST over time and absence of heavy benzodiazepine use predicted HCV treatment uptake. Increased awareness for HCV among OST patients is needed as tolerable and efficient directly acting antiviral treatment is being introduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Håvard Midgard
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Jørgen G. Bramness
- Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Svetlana Skurtveit
- Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Pharmacoepidemiology, The Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - John W. Haukeland
- Department of Gastroenterology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Olav Dalgard
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Konerman MA, Lok ASF. Hepatitis C Treatment and Barriers to Eradication. Clin Transl Gastroenterol 2016; 7:e193. [PMID: 27657495 PMCID: PMC5288596 DOI: 10.1038/ctg.2016.50] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2016] [Accepted: 07/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Current treatment for chronic hepatitis C (CHC) is highly efficacious, well-tolerated, and of short duration for the majority of patients. Despite the dramatic advances in therapy, there remain several barriers to disease eradication. These include deficiencies in screening, diagnosis, and access to care, and high cost of the direct-acting antiviral medications. In addition, incident cases and reinfection associated with injection drug use contribute to the persistent worldwide disease burden. This article will review the current CHC treatments, and outline the remaining gaps in therapy and barriers to disease eradication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica A Konerman
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Anna S F Lok
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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Chirikov VV, Shaya FT, Mullins CD, dosReis S, Onukwugha E, Howell CD. Determinants of quality of care and treatment initiation in Medicare disabled patients with chronic hepatitis C. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2016; 9:1447-62. [PMID: 26524244 DOI: 10.1586/17474124.2015.1095087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aligning with a national priority to bridge health disparities in disadvantaged populations, we explored contextual determinants of pretreatment quality of care and treatment receipt of Medicare disabled patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. METHODS We used Medicare claims (2006-2009) linked to the Area Health Resource Files. Ordinal partial proportional odds and weighted modified Poisson regressions were used to model the determinants of quality care receipt and interferon-based treatment, respectively. RESULTS We identified 1936 Medicare disabled HCV patients, of whom 10.4% were treated with peg-interferon. Despite the high comorbidity burden among HCV disabled patients, greater engagement in care correlated with greater likelihood of quality care and treatment receipt. CONCLUSION Our study highlights the need for process and linkage to care in Medicare disabled HCV patients, but future research relevant to novel interferon-free agents is needed to assess patterns of quality of care and treatment receipt in this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktor V Chirikov
- a 1 Department of Pharmaceutical Health Services Research, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, 220 Arch Street, Saratoga Offices 12th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Fadia T Shaya
- a 1 Department of Pharmaceutical Health Services Research, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, 220 Arch Street, Saratoga Offices 12th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.,b 2 University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - C Daniel Mullins
- a 1 Department of Pharmaceutical Health Services Research, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, 220 Arch Street, Saratoga Offices 12th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Susan dosReis
- a 1 Department of Pharmaceutical Health Services Research, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, 220 Arch Street, Saratoga Offices 12th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Ebere Onukwugha
- a 1 Department of Pharmaceutical Health Services Research, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, 220 Arch Street, Saratoga Offices 12th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Charles D Howell
- c 3 Department of Medicine, Howard University College of Medicine, 2041 Georgia Ave. Suite 5C02, Washington, DC 20060, USA
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Myles A. The Role of Physicians’ Attitudes and the Provision of Hepatitis C Virus Treatment to People Who Inject Drugs. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.2174/1874220301603010104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Inadequate hepatitis C virus (HCV) assessment and treatment among people who inject drugs (PWID) is a result of patient, provider and health system level barriers. Low HCV treatment rates continue even though guidelines have been revised to consider HCV treatment among PWID on a case-by-case basis. If accessibility to HCV treatment were increased, especially to PWID this would greatly decrease the pool of communicable disease. In order to successfully control and prevent HCV infection PWID must be actively engaged in the treatment process. Physicians’ attitudes towards HCV treatment can be represented in studies as views that are directly perceived by the physician or indirectly as perceived by the patient who is under the care of the physician. The current review focuses on examining both the indirect and direct views of physician’s attitudes in treating HCV-infected PWID and examines how this influences and impacts provision of HCV treatment. A review of the literature suggests that physician’s have varied attitudes towards their patients who use recreational drugs and who are HCV positive. Moreover it is the negative associations between HCV and drug use that can impact HCV treatment accessibility and affect the number of people who can actively begin treatment.
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Primary Care-Based Hepatitis C Treatment Outcomes With First-Generation Direct-Acting Agents. J Addict Med 2016; 9:405-10. [PMID: 26291545 DOI: 10.1097/adm.0000000000000147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Vulnerable, urban populations with a history of substance use disorders have a high prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV). Primary care-based treatment has been proposed to improve access to care. In this study, we present outcomes from our urban, primary care-based HCV treatment program in patients treated with telaprevir or boceprevir in combination with pegylated-interferon and ribavirin ("triple therapy"). METHODS We collected data from 126 consecutive patients with genotype 1 HCV monoinfection seen in our treatment program (2011-2013). Among the 40 who initiated treatment, we analyzed factors associated with achieving a sustained viral response (SVR). RESULTS During the study period, 40 patients initiated triple therapy (32%), 80% with recent or past substance use disorders. Patients initiating treatment were younger than untreated patients (P = 0.002), but otherwise did not differ demographically, or in the severity of their liver fibrosis (P > 0.05). An SVR was achieved in 18 patients (45%) and was less likely in patients with recent or past substance use disorders or psychiatric illness (both P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Nearly one third of patients initiated triple therapy with SVR rates comparable to other HCV treatment settings, despite a significant burden of mental illness and substance dependence. Our experience demonstrates that a primary care-based practice can successfully deliver HCV care to a vulnerable population. Additional interventions may be needed to improve outcomes in patients with recent or past substance use disorders or psychiatric illness.
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King A, Bornschlegel K, Johnson N, Rude E, Laraque F. Barriers to Treatment Among New York City Residents with Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection, 2014. Public Health Rep 2016; 131:430-7. [PMID: 27252563 PMCID: PMC4869091 DOI: 10.1177/003335491613100309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE New, highly effective hepatitis C virus (HCV) medications recently changed the landscape of HCV treatment. Access to treatment, however, is limited. The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene conducted an enhanced surveillance project to better understand the reasons patients are not treated for HCV. METHODS In June 2014, we randomly selected 300 adults who were reported through routine surveillance as having a positive HCV ribonucleic acid test result and who had seen a medical provider since June 2012. We collected information on demographics, treatment, and barriers to treatment from these 300 patients and their providers by telephone, fax, mail, and medical record review. RESULTS Of 179 providers, 74 (41%) cited co-occurring conditions and 50 (28%) cited patients not keeping follow-up or referral appointments with specialists as common barriers to treatment. Forty providers (22%) reported that they do not prescribe HCV medications and instead refer patients to specialists for treatment. Of 89 patients citing barriers to treatment, 30 (34%) cited co-occurring conditions, 26 (29%) cited concerns about side effects, 21 (24%) indicated not feeling sick, 15 (17%) cited waiting for a better treatment regimen, and 12 (13%) cited medication costs or insurance issues. Only 11 providers and 10 patients denied any barriers to treatment. CONCLUSION Increasing the number of New York City residents with HCV infection who are treated and cured will require programs to increase provider capacity, change provider behavior in treating patients with substance use and medical conditions, improve patient awareness of new medications, provide patient navigation and care coordination support through treatment, and initiate advocacy and policy work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea King
- New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Queens, NY
| | | | - Nirah Johnson
- New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Queens, NY
| | - Eric Rude
- New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Queens, NY
| | - Fabienne Laraque
- New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Queens, NY
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