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Ahmadi Gharaei H, Fararouei M, Mirzazadeh A, Sharifnia G, Rohani-Rasaf M, Bastam D, Rahimi J, Kouhestani M, Rezaian S, Dianatinasab M. The global and regional prevalence of hepatitis C and B co-infections among prisoners living with HIV: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Infect Dis Poverty 2021; 10:93. [PMID: 34210349 PMCID: PMC8252262 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-021-00876-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections are common among individuals with human immune deficiency virus (HIV) infection worldwide. In this study, we did a systematic review and meta-analysis of the published literature to estimate the global and regional prevalence of HCV, HBV and HIV coinfections among HIV-positive prisoners. METHODS We searched PubMed via MEDLINE, Embase, the Cochrane Library, SCOPUS, and Web of science (ISI) to identify studies that reported the prevalence of HBV and HCV among prisoners living with HIV. We used an eight-item checklist for critically appraisal studies of prevalence/incidence of a health problem to assess the quality of publications in the included 48 cross-sectional and 4 cohort studies. We used random-effect models and meta-regression for the meta-analysis of the results of the included studies. RESULTS The number of the included studies were 50 for HCV-HIV, and 23 for HBV-HIV co-infections. The pooled prevalence rates of the coinfections were 12% [95% confidence interval (CI) 9.0-16.0] for HBV-HIV and 62% (95% CI 53.0-71.0) for HCV-HIV. Among HIV-positive prisoners who reported drug injection, the prevalence of HBV increased to 15% (95% CI 5.0-23.0), and the HCV prevalence increased to 78% (95% CI 51.0-100). The prevalence of HBV-HIV coinfection among prisoners ranged from 3% in the East Mediterranean region to 27% in the American region. Also, the prevalence of HCV-HIV coinfections among prisoners ranged from 6% in Europe to 98% in the East Mediterranean regions. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggested that the high prevalence of HBV and HCV co-infection among HIV-positive prisoners, particularly among those with a history of drug injection, varies significantly across the globe. The results of Meta-regression analysis showed a sliding increase in the prevalence of the studied co-infections among prisoners over the past decades, rising a call for better screening and treatment programs targeting this high-risk population. To prevent the above coinfections among prisoners, aimed public health services (e.g. harm reduction via access to clean needles), human rights, equity, and ethics are to be seriously delivered or practiced in prisons. Protocol registration number: CRD42018115707 (in the PROSPERO international).
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Affiliation(s)
- Hasan Ahmadi Gharaei
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Nutrition, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Health, Faculty of Public Health, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Fararouei
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Nutrition, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ali Mirzazadeh
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics and Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Golnaz Sharifnia
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.
| | - Marzieh Rohani-Rasaf
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Dariush Bastam
- Medical School, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
| | - Jamileh Rahimi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Mostafa Kouhestani
- Department of Health, Faculty of Public Health, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
| | - Shahab Rezaian
- Infectious Diseases Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Mostafa Dianatinasab
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran.
- Department of Complex Genetics and Epidemiology, School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 40 (Room C5.570), 6229 ER, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
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Kwon JA, Chambers GM, Luciani F, Zhang L, Kinathil S, Kim D, Thein HH, Botha W, Thompson S, Lloyd A, Yap L, Gray RT, Butler T. Hepatitis C treatment strategies in prisons: A cost-effectiveness analysis. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0245896. [PMID: 33571196 PMCID: PMC7877645 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0245896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In Australian prisons approximately 20% of inmates are chronically infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV), providing an important population for targeted treatment and prevention. A dynamic mathematical model of HCV transmission was used to assess the impact of increasing direct-acting antiviral (DAA) treatment uptake on HCV incidence and prevalence in the prisons in New South Wales, Australia, and to assess the cost-effectiveness of alternate treatment strategies. We developed four separate models reflecting different average prison lengths of stay (LOS) of 2, 6, 24, and 36 months. Each model considered four DAA treatment coverage scenarios of 10% (status-quo), 25%, 50%, and 90% over 2016–2045. For each model and scenario, we estimated the lifetime burden of disease, costs and changes in quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) in prison and in the community during 2016–2075. Costs and QALYs were discounted 3.5% annually and adjusted to 2015 Australian dollars. Compared to treating 10% of infected prisoners, increasing DAA coverage to 25%, 50%, and 90% reduced HCV incidence in prisons by 9–33% (2-months LOS), 26–65% (6-months LOS), 37–70% (24-months LOS), and 35–65% (36-months LOS). DAA treatment was highly cost-effective among all LOS models at conservative willingness-to-pay thresholds. DAA therapy became increasingly cost-effective with increasing coverage. Compared to 10% treatment coverage, the incremental cost per QALY ranged from $497-$569 (2-months LOS), -$280–$323 (6-months LOS), -$432–$426 (24-months LOS), and -$245–$477 (36-months LOS). Treating more than 25% of HCV-infected prisoners with DAA therapy is highly cost-effective. This study shows that treating HCV-infected prisoners is highly cost-effective and should be a government priority for the global HCV elimination effort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jisoo A. Kwon
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Georgina M. Chambers
- National Perinatal Epidemiology and Statistics Unit (NPESU), Centre for Big Data Research in Health and School of Women’s and Children’s Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Fabio Luciani
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Lei Zhang
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- The Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Carlton, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Dennis Kim
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Hla-Hla Thein
- Toronto Health Economics and Technology Assessment Collaborative (THETA), Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University of Toronto and University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Willings Botha
- RTI Health Solutions, Research Triangle Park, NC, United States of America
| | - Sandra Thompson
- Combined Universities of Rural Health, Geraldton, WA, Australia
| | - Andrew Lloyd
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Lorraine Yap
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Tony Butler
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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3
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Sterling RK, Cherian R, Lewis S, Genther K, Driscoll C, Martin K, Goode MB, Matherly S, Siddiqui MS, Luketic VA, Stravitz RT, Puri P, Lee H, Smith P, Patel V, Sanyal AJ. Treatment of HCV in the Department of Corrections in the Era of Oral Medications. JOURNAL OF CORRECTIONAL HEALTH CARE 2018; 24:127-136. [PMID: 29566611 DOI: 10.1177/1078345818762591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) is widely prevalent in the Virginia Department of Corrections (DOC). However, sustained virologic response (SVR) with all oral direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy is unknown. HCV treatment was provided through telemedicine following guidelines of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases and Infectious Diseases Society of America. SVR12 in the DOC was compared in two control groups: privately insured and indigent patients receiving care in HCV treatment clinics by the same providers during the same time period. Of 220 DOC patients, 180 were started on therapy (158 genotype [GT] 1, 15 GT2, and 10 GT3). SVR12 data on GT1 patients who received ledipasvir/sofosbuvir with or without ribavirin (RBV) were 96%, similar to our indigent (95%) and private clinic (93%) patients despite differences in age, gender, treatment experience, FIB-4, and use of RBV. Multiple logistic regression of GT1 patients identified lower FIB-4 ( p = .008) and treatment clinic ( p = .01) as independent predictors of SVR12. HCV treatment in the DOC by telemedicine with DAA is not only feasible but has a very high SVR12 similar to published trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard K Sterling
- 1 Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Reena Cherian
- 1 Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Shawn Lewis
- 1 Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Kathleen Genther
- 1 Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Carolyn Driscoll
- 1 Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Kelly Martin
- 2 School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Mary Beth Goode
- 2 School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Scott Matherly
- 1 Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Mohammad S Siddiqui
- 1 Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Velimir A Luketic
- 1 Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - R Todd Stravitz
- 1 Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Puneet Puri
- 1 Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Hannah Lee
- 1 Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Paula Smith
- 1 Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Vaishali Patel
- 1 Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Arun J Sanyal
- 1 Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, Richmond, VA, USA
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Cunningham EB, Hajarizadeh B, Bretana NA, Amin J, Betz-Stablein B, Dore GJ, Luciani F, Teutsch S, Dolan K, Lloyd AR, Grebely J. Ongoing incident hepatitis C virus infection among people with a history of injecting drug use in an Australian prison setting, 2005-2014: The HITS-p study. J Viral Hepat 2017; 24:733-741. [PMID: 28256027 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.12701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2016] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission is high in prisons. This study investigated trends in HCV incidence and associated factors among a cohort of prisoners with a history of injecting drug use in New South Wales, Australia. Data were available from the Hepatitis C Incidence and Transmission Study-prisons (HITS-p) from 2005 to 2014. Temporal trends in HCV incidence were evaluated. Factors associated with time to HCV seroconversion among people with ongoing injecting was assessed using Cox proportional hazards. Among 320 antibody-negative participants with a history of injecting drug use (mean age 26; 72% male), 62% (n=197) reported injecting drug use during follow-up. Overall, 93 infections were observed. HCV incidence was 11.4/100 person-years in the overall population and 6.3/100 person-years among the continually imprisoned population. A stable trend in HCV incidence was observed. Among the overall population with ongoing injecting during follow-up, ≥weekly injecting drug use frequency was independently associated with time to HCV seroconversion. Among continuously imprisoned injectors with ongoing injecting during follow-up, needle/syringe sharing was independently associated with time to HCV seroconversion. This study demonstrates that prison is a high-risk environment for acquisition of HCV infection. Needle and syringe sharing was associated with HCV infection among continually imprisoned participants, irrespective of frequency of injecting or the type of drug injected. These findings highlight the need for the evaluation of improved HCV prevention strategies in prison, including needle/syringe programmes and HCV treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- E B Cunningham
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - B Hajarizadeh
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - N A Bretana
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Inflammation and Infection Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - J Amin
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - B Betz-Stablein
- Inflammation and Infection Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - G J Dore
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - F Luciani
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Inflammation and Infection Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - S Teutsch
- Inflammation and Infection Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - K Dolan
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - A R Lloyd
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Inflammation and Infection Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - J Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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5
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Larney S, Zaller ND, Dumont DM, Willcock A, Degenhardt L. A systematic review and meta-analysis of racial and ethnic disparities in hepatitis C antibody prevalence in United States correctional populations. Ann Epidemiol 2016; 26:570-578.e2. [DOI: 10.1016/j.annepidem.2016.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2016] [Revised: 06/26/2016] [Accepted: 06/28/2016] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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Stöver H, Hariga F. Prison-based needle and syringe programmes (PNSP) – Still highly controversial after all these years. DRUGS-EDUCATION PREVENTION AND POLICY 2016. [DOI: 10.3109/09687637.2016.1148117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Heino Stöver
- Faculty of Health and Social Work, Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences, Institute for the Study of Addiction, Frankfurt am Main, Germany and
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7
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Luciani F, Bretaña NA, Teutsch S, Amin J, Topp L, Dore GJ, Maher L, Dolan K, Lloyd AR. A prospective study of hepatitis C incidence in Australian prisoners. Addiction 2014; 109:1695-706. [PMID: 24916002 DOI: 10.1111/add.12643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2013] [Revised: 10/29/2013] [Accepted: 06/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To document the relationships between injecting drug use, imprisonment and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. SETTING Multiple prisons in New South Wales, Australia. PARTICIPANTS HCV seronegative prisoners with a life-time history of injecting drug use (IDU) were enrolled and followed prospectively (n = 210) by interview and HCV antibody and RNA testing 6-12-monthly for up to 4 years when in prison. MEASUREMENTS HCV incidence was calculated using the person-years method. Cox regression was used to identify predictors of incident infection using time-dependent covariates. RESULTS Almost half the cohort reported IDU during follow-up (103 subjects; 49.1%) and 65 (31%) also reported sharing of the injecting apparatus. There were 38 HCV incident cases in 269.94 person-years (py) of follow-up with an estimated incidence of 14.08 per 100 py [confidence interval (CI) = 9.96-19.32]. Incident infection was associated independently with Indigenous background, injecting daily or more and injecting heroin. Three subjects were RNA-positive and antibody-negative at the incident time-point, indicating early infection, which provided a second incidence estimate of 9.4%. Analysis of continuously incarcerated subjects (n = 114) followed over 126.73 py, identified 13 new HCV infections (10.26 per 100 py, CI = 5.46-17.54), one of which was an early infection case. Bleach-cleansing of injecting equipment and opioid substitution treatment were not associated with a significant reduction in incidence. CONCLUSIONS In New South Wales, Australia, imprisonment is associated with high rates of hepatitis C virus transmission. More effective harm reduction interventions are needed to control HCV in prison settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Luciani
- Inflammation and Infection Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Arain A, Robaeys G, Stöver H. Hepatitis C in European prisons: a call for an evidence-informed response. BMC Infect Dis 2014; 14 Suppl 6:S17. [PMID: 25252822 PMCID: PMC4178549 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2334-14-s6-s17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally, over 10 million people are held in prisons and other places of detention at any given time. People who inject drugs (PWID) comprise 10-48% of male and 30-60% of female prisoners. The spread of hepatitis C in prisons is clearly driven by injection drug use, with many infected prisoners unaware of their infection status. Risk behaviour for acquisition of hepatitis C via common use of injecting equipment is widespread in many prison settings. In custodial settings, effective and efficient prevention models applied in the community are very rarely implemented. Only approximately 60 out of more than 10,000 prisons worldwide provide needle exchange. Thus, HCV prevention is almost exclusively limited to verbal advice, leaflets and other measures directed to cognitive behavioural change. Although the outcome of HCV antiviral treatment is comparable to non-substance users and substance users out of prison, the uptake for antiviral treatment is extremely low. Based on a literature review to assess the spread of hepatitis C among prisoners and to learn more about the impact for the prison system, recommendations regarding hepatitis C prevention, screening and treatment in prisons have been formulated in this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber Arain
- Limburg Clinical Research Programme, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Geert Robaeys
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ziekenhuis Oost-Limburg, Genk, Belgium
- Limburg Clinical Research Programme, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium
- Department of Hepatology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven University, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Heino Stöver
- Faculty of Health and Social Work, University of Applied Sciences, Frankfurt, Germany
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Post JJ, Arain A, Lloyd AR. Enhancing assessment and treatment of hepatitis C in the custodial setting. Clin Infect Dis 2014; 57 Suppl 2:S70-4. [PMID: 23884069 DOI: 10.1093/cid/cit265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute and chronic hepatitis C (HCV) infections are prevalent in custodial settings worldwide, yet provision of antiviral therapies is uncommon. This disparity between the burden of disease and hepatitis service delivery reflects the marginalized patient population, which features high rates of injection drug use and poor mental health. In addition, the prison environment is intended for deprivation of liberty and not healthcare. Screening for HCV infections is provided in most jurisdictions, but uptake rates remain low. Assessment and treatment of inmates is often provided only by community-based services. Despite these challenges, assessment and treatment of inmates with chronic HCV via prison-based services has been shown to be feasible and effective. These services offer the potential to substantively increase HCV treatment uptake and reduce the burden of disease for the community at large. Improvements in the efficacy of HCV therapies via direct-acting antivirals, which also offer reduced treatment duration and decreased toxicities, mean that prison health services will be well placed for the treatment of large numbers of people with HCV who do not access health services in the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey J Post
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, Australia
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Abstract
Hepatitis C virus is the most common chronic blood-borne infection in the USA. Based on results of a serosurvey, national prevalence is estimated to be 1·3% or 3·2 million people. Sub-national estimates are not available for most jurisdictions. Hepatitis C surveillance data was adjusted for death, out-migration, under-diagnosis, and undetectable blood RNA, to estimate prevalence in New York City (NYC). The prevalence of hepatitis C infection in adults aged ⩾20 years in NYC is 2·37% (range 1·53–4·90%) or 146 500 cases of hepatitis C. This analysis presents a mechanism for generating prevalence estimates using local surveillance data accounting for biases and difficulty in accessing hard to reach populations. As the cohort of patients with hepatitis C age and require additional medical care, local public health officials will need a method to generate prevalence estimates to allocate resources. This approach can serve as a guideline for generating local estimates using surveillance data that is less resource prohibitive.
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MUSHAYABASA S, BHUNU CP, MAGOMBEDZE G, STEWART AGR. ON THE ROLE OF SCREENING AND EDUCATIONAL CAMPAIGNS ON CONTROLLING HCV IN CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTIONS. J BIOL SYST 2013. [DOI: 10.1142/s0218339013500071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) is higher among prison inmates compared with the general population because of the high proportion of intravenous drug misusers. In this paper, a mathematical model for the spread of HCV in correctional institutions is developed and analyzed. The impact of educational campaigns and screening of HCV infected individuals is examined. In the presence of screening, the study suggests that targeted education campaigns of more than 50% will be highly effective in controlling the sharing of injection equipment among intravenous drug users, thereby reducing HCV prevalence within the correctional institutions. Further, we applied optimal control theory to the proposed model. The controls represent educational campaigns and screening. The objective is based on minimizing cumulative latent and infectious cases within the correctional institution, while maximizing the number of susceptible nonintravenous drug misusers. The optimal control is characterized and numerically solved. Overall, the application of optimal control theory in this study suggests that, more effort should be devoted to educational campaigns compared to screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. MUSHAYABASA
- Department of Mathematics, University of Zimbabwe, P.O. Box MP 167, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - C. P. BHUNU
- Department of Mathematics, University of Zimbabwe, P.O. Box MP 167, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - G. MAGOMBEDZE
- National Institute for Mathematical and Biological Synthesis, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - A. G. R. STEWART
- Department of Mathematics, University of Zimbabwe, P.O. Box MP 167, Harare, Zimbabwe
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12
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Lehman EJ, Huy JM, Viet SM, Gomaa A. Compliance With Bloodborne Pathogen Standards at Eight Correctional Facilities. JOURNAL OF CORRECTIONAL HEALTH CARE 2012; 18:29-44. [DOI: 10.1177/1078345811421466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Everett J. Lehman
- Industrywide Studies Branch, Division of Surveillance, Hazard Evaluations and Field Studies, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Janice M. Huy
- Office of the Director, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | | | - Ahmed Gomaa
- Surveillance Branch, Division of Surveillance, Hazard Evaluations and Field Studies, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Cincinnati, OH, USA
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13
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Chak E, Talal AH, Sherman KE, Schiff ER, Saab S. Hepatitis C virus infection in USA: an estimate of true prevalence. Liver Int 2011; 31:1090-101. [PMID: 21745274 DOI: 10.1111/j.1478-3231.2011.02494.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 305] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The recent National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) sampled only the civilian, non-institutionalized population of USA and may have underestimated the prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in this country. We searched the database MEDLINE, the Bureau of Justice Statistics, Center for Medicare and Medicaid and individual states Department of Corrections for all epidemiological studies regarding the prevalence of HCV in populations not sampled by the NHANES survey namely the incarcerated, homeless, nursing home residents, hospitalized and those on active military duty. Because of their relatively low frequency in the NHANES sample, we also expanded our search to include healthcare workers and long-term dialysis patients. Although included in the NHANES sample, we also performed searches on drug users (injection and non-injection) and veterans to confirm the findings of the NHANES study. Based on the prevalence of studies identified meeting our inclusion criteria, our most conservative estimates state that there at least 142,761 homeless persons, 372,754 incarcerated persons and 6805 persons on active military duty unaccounted for in the NHANES survey. While the NHANES estimates of drug users (both injection and non-injection) appear to be reasonable, the survey seems to have underestimated the number of HCV-positive veterans. Our most conservative estimates suggest that there are at least 5.2 million persons living with HCV in USA today, approximately 1.9 million of whom were unaccounted for in the NHANES survey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Chak
- Department of Medicine, University of California, Sylmar, CA, USA
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14
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Gough E, Kempf MC, Graham L, Manzanero M, Hook EW, Bartolucci A, Chamot E. HIV and hepatitis B and C incidence rates in US correctional populations and high risk groups: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Public Health 2010; 10:777. [PMID: 21176146 PMCID: PMC3016391 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-10-777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2010] [Accepted: 12/21/2010] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND High Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) prevalence and high risk behaviors have been well documented within United States (US) correctional systems. However, uncertainty remains regarding the extent to which placing people in prison or jail increases their risk of HIV infection, and regarding which inmate populations experience an increased incidence of HIV. Describing these dynamics more clearly is essential to understanding how inmates and former detainees may be a source for further spread of HIV to the general US population. METHODS The authors conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies describing HIV incidence in US correctional facility residents and, for comparison, in high risk groups for HIV infection, such as non-incarcerated intravenous drug users (IVDU) and men who have sex with men (MSM) in the US. HIV incidence rates were further compared with Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C Virus rates in these same populations. RESULTS Thirty-six predominantly prospective cohort studies were included. Across all infection outcomes, continuously incarcerated inmates and treatment recruited IVDU showed the lowest incidence, while MSM and street recruited IVDU showed the highest. HIV incidence was highest among inmates released and re-incarcerated. Possible sources of heterogeneity identified among HIV studies were risk population and race. CONCLUSIONS Although important literature gaps were found, current evidence suggests that policies and interventions for HIV prevention in correctional populations should prioritize curtailing risk of infection during the post-release period. Future research should evaluate HIV incidence rates in inmate populations, accounting for proportion of high risk sub-groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethan Gough
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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15
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Teutsch S, Luciani F, Scheuer N, McCredie L, Hosseiny P, Rawlinson W, Kaldor J, Dore GJ, Dolan K, Ffrench R, Lloyd A, Haber P, Levy M. Incidence of primary hepatitis C infection and risk factors for transmission in an Australian prisoner cohort. BMC Public Health 2010; 10:633. [PMID: 20964864 PMCID: PMC2975656 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-10-633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2010] [Accepted: 10/22/2010] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is common in prisoner populations, particularly those with a history of injecting drug use (IDU). Previous studies of HCV incidence have been based on small case numbers and have not distinguished risk events in prison from those in the community. METHODS HCV incidence was examined in a longitudinal cohort of 488 Australian prisoners with a history of IDU and documented to be seronegative within 12 months prior to enrollment. Inmates were tested for anti-HCV antibodies and viremia, and interviewed about demographic and behavioral risk factors for transmission. RESULTS The cohort was predominantly male (65%) with high rates of prior imprisonment (72%) and tattooing (73%), as well as longstanding IDU (mean 8.5 years). Ninety-four incident HCV cases were identified (incidence 31.6 per 100 person years). Independent associations were observed between incident infection and prior imprisonment (p = 0.02) and tattooing (p = 0.03), and surprisingly also with methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS High rates of new HCV infection were found in this prisoner cohort reflecting their substantive risk behavior profile, despite having remained uninfected for many years. The association with MMT is challenging and highlights the need for better understanding of prison-specific HCV transmission risks, as well as the uptake and effectiveness of prevention programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzy Teutsch
- School of Medical Sciences, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
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16
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Abstract
Hepatitis C (HCV) is the disease that has affected around 200 million people globally. HCV is a life threatening human pathogen, not only because of its high prevalence and worldwide burden but also because of the potentially serious complications of persistent HCV infection. Chronicity of the disease leads to cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma and end-stage liver disease. HCV positive hepatocytes vary between less than 5% and up to 100%, indicating the high rate of replication of viral RNA. HCV has a very high mutational rate that enables it to escape the immune system. Viral diversity has two levels; the genotypes and Quasiaspecies. Major HCV genotypes constitute genotype 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 while more than 50 subtypes are known. All HCV genotypes have their particular patterns of geographical distribution and a slight drift in viral population has been observed in some parts of the globe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazish Bostan
- Department of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad-45320, Pakistan
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17
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Humar A, Morris M, Blumberg E, Freeman R, Preiksaitis J, Kiberd B, Schweitzer E, Ganz S, Caliendo A, Orlowski JP, Wilson B, Kotton C, Michaels M, Kleinman S, Geier S, Murphy B, Green M, Levi M, Knoll G, Segev DL, Brubaker S, Hasz R, Lebovitz DJ, Mulligan D, O'Connor K, Pruett T, Mozes M, Lee I, Delmonico F, Fischer S. Nucleic acid testing (NAT) of organ donors: is the 'best' test the right test? A consensus conference report. Am J Transplant 2010; 10:889-899. [PMID: 20121734 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-6143.2009.02992.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Nucleic acid testing (NAT) for HIV, HBV and HCV shortens the time between infection and detection by available testing. A group of experts was selected to develop recommendations for the use of NAT in the HIV/HBV/HCV screening of potential organ donors. The rapid turnaround times needed for donor testing and the risk of death while awaiting transplantation make organ donor screening different from screening blood-or tissue donors. In donors with no identified risk factors, there is insufficient evidence to recommend routine NAT, as the benefits of NAT may not outweigh the disadvantages of NAT especially when false-positive results can lead to loss of donor organs. For donors with identified behavioral risk factors, NAT should be considered to reduce the risk of transmission and increase organ utilization. Informed consent balancing the risks of donor-derived infection against the risk of remaining on the waiting list should be obtained at the time of candidate listing and again at the time of organ offer. In conclusion, there is insufficient evidence to recommend universal prospective screening of organ donors for HIV, HCV and HBV using current NAT platforms. Further study of viral screening modalities may reduce disease transmission risk without excessive donor loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Humar
- Transplant Infectious Diseases, University of Alberta
| | - M Morris
- Infectious Diseases, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
| | - E Blumberg
- Infectious Diseases, University of Pennsylvania
| | | | - J Preiksaitis
- Transplant Infectious Diseases, University of Alberta
| | - B Kiberd
- Queen Elizabeth II Health Sciences Centre, Nephrology
| | | | - S Ganz
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
| | - A Caliendo
- Emory University School of Medicine, Pathology and Lab Medicine
| | | | - B Wilson
- Association of Organ Procurement Organizations
| | - C Kotton
- Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital
| | - M Michaels
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh
| | | | | | | | - M Green
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
| | - M Levi
- University of Colorado Denver
| | | | | | | | - R Hasz
- Association of Organ Procurement Organizations (AOPO)
| | | | | | - K O'Connor
- Association of Organ Procurement Organizations (AOPO)
| | - T Pruett
- University of Virginia Health System
| | - M Mozes
- Gift of Hope Organ and Tissue Donor Network
| | - I Lee
- Infectious Diseases, University of Pennsylvania
| | | | - S Fischer
- The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University and Rhode Island Hospital Joint consensus recommendations endorsed by: American Society of Transplantation (AST), Canadian Society of Transplantation (CST), American Society of Transplant Surgeons (ASTS). With additional sponsorship by: United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), American Association of Tissue Banks (AATB), Association of Organ Procurement Organizations (AOPO)
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18
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Dolan K, Teutsch S, Scheuer N, Levy M, Rawlinson W, Kaldor J, Lloyd A, Haber P. Incidence and risk for acute hepatitis C infection during imprisonment in Australia. Eur J Epidemiol 2010; 25:143-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s10654-009-9421-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2009] [Accepted: 12/31/2009] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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19
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Latimer WW, Hedden SL, Floyd L, Lawson A, Melnikov A, Severtson SG, Moleko AG, Cole K. Prevalence and correlates of Hepatitis C among injection drug users: The significance of duration of use, incarceration and race/ethnicity. JOURNAL OF DRUG ISSUES 2009; 39:893-904. [PMID: 20473343 PMCID: PMC2867351 DOI: 10.1177/002204260903900406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
The study examined associations between Hepatitis C (HCV) seropositivity and a lifetime history of jail or correctional facility incarceration among injection drug users. The sample consisted of 351 injection drug users recruited in inner-city neighborhoods of Baltimore. Multiple logistic regressions were fit to assess associations between HCV seropositivity and a lifetime history of incarceration for the total sample and stratified by race. Analyses demonstrated HCV nearly two times greater for whites than African Americans. In addition, HCV was 2.6 times greater in participants incarcerated in correctional facilities and HCV was 7.4 times greater in participants reporting more than 5 years of injection drug use compared to participants reporting less than 1 year of injection drug use. The study findings suggest that incorporating systematic HCV screening, prevention, and treatment programs within correctional systems represents a vital yet underutilized strategy to reduce HCV transmission in society as a whole.
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Affiliation(s)
- William W Latimer
- The Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
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20
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Hepatitis C virus infection in South Australian prisoners: seroprevalence, seroconversion, and risk factors. Int J Infect Dis 2009; 13:201-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2008.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2008] [Revised: 06/04/2008] [Accepted: 06/11/2008] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
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21
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Abstract
UNLABELLED The prevalence of chronic hepatitis C infection in U.S. prisons is 12% to 31%. Treatment of this substantial portion of the population has been subject to much controversy, both medically and legally. Studies have demonstrated that treatment of chronic hepatitis C with pegylated interferon (PEG IFN) and ribavirin is a cost-effective measure in the general population; however, no study has addressed whether the same is true of the prison population. The aim of this study was to determine the cost-effectiveness of hepatitis C treatment with PEG IFN and ribavirin in the U.S. prison population. Cost-effectiveness was determined via a decision analysis model employing Markov simulation. The cohort of prisoners had a distribution of genotypes and stages of fibrosis in accordance with prior studies evaluating inmate populations. The probability of transitioning from one health state to another, reinfection rates, in-prison and out-of-prison mortality rates, sustained viral response rates, costs, and quality of life weights were also obtained from the literature. Sensitivity analysis was performed. In a strategy without a pretreatment liver biopsy, treatment was cost-effective for all ages and genotypes. This model was robust to rates of disease progression, mortality rates, reinfection rates, sustained viral response rates, and costs. In a strategy employing a pretreatment liver biopsy, treatment was also cost-saving for prisoners of all ages and genotypes with portal fibrosis, bridging fibrosis, or compensated cirrhosis. Treatment was not cost-effective in patients between the ages of 40 and 49 with no fibrosis and genotype 1. CONCLUSION Treatment of chronic hepatitis C with PEG IFN and ribavirin in U.S. prisons results in both improved quality of life and savings in cost for almost all segments of the inmate population. If the decision to treat hepatitis C is based on pharmaco-economic measures, this significant proportion of infected individuals should not be denied access to therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Tan
- Department of Medicine, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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22
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Baillargeon J, Soloway RD, Paar D, Giordano TP, Murray O, Grady J, Williams B, Pulvino J, Raimer BG. End-stage liver disease in a state prison population. Ann Epidemiol 2007; 17:808-13. [PMID: 17689260 DOI: 10.1016/j.annepidem.2007.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2007] [Revised: 04/11/2007] [Accepted: 04/12/2007] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Information on the epidemiology of end-stage liver disease (ESLD) in US correctional populations is limited. We examined the prevalence, mortality and clinical characteristics of ESLD in the nation's second largest state prison system. METHODS We collected and analyzed medical and demographic data from 370,511 offenders incarcerated in Texas' prison system during a 3.5-year period. RESULTS ESLD was diagnosed in 484 inmates (131/100,000); 213 (57/100,000) died of ESLD. Offenders who were Hispanic, 30-49 years of age, > or =50 years of age, HIV monoinfected, hepatitis C virus (HCV) monoinfected, or HIV/HCV coinfected had elevated ESLD prevalence and mortality rates. CONCLUSIONS ESLD mortality in Texas' prison population is approximately 3 times higher than that of the general population, reflecting elevated rates of HCV and HIV/HCV coinfection among prisoners. Ultimately, the only viable treatment option for many prisoners with ESLD will be liver transplantation. The enormous costs of organ transplantation and immunosuppressive therapy are staggering and have the potential to decimate the healthcare budgets of most prison systems. Consequently, it is imperative that correctional healthcare programs expand HCV treatment and prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacques Baillargeon
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Community Health, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA.
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23
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Schweitzer EJ, Perencevich EN, Philosophe B, Bartlett ST. Estimated benefits of transplantation of kidneys from donors at increased risk for HIV or hepatitis C infection. Am J Transplant 2007; 7:1515-25. [PMID: 17511680 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-6143.2007.01769.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Kidneys from organ donors who have behaviors that place them at increased risk for infection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV) are often discarded, even if viral screening tests are negative. This study compared policies that would either 'Discard' or 'Transplant' kidneys from Centers for Disease Control classified increased-risk donors (CDC-IRDs) using a decision analytic Markov model of renal failure treatment modalities. Base-case CDC-IRDs were current injection drug users (IDUs) with negative antibody and nucleic acid testing (NAT) for HIV and HCV, comprising 5% of kidney donors. Compared to a CDC-IRD kidney 'Discard' policy, the 'Transplant' policy resulted in higher patient survival, a greater number of quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) (5.6 vs. 5.1 years per patient), more kidney transplants (990 vs. 740 transplants per 1000 patients) and lower cost of care ($60 000 vs. $71 000 per QALY). The total number of viral infections was lower with the 'Transplant' policy (13.1 vs. 14.8 infections per 1000 patients over 20 years), because the 'Discard' policy led to more time on hemodialysis, with a higher HCV incidence. We recommend that kidneys from NAT-negative CDC-IRDs be considered for transplantation since the practice is estimated to be beneficial from both the societal and individual patient perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- E J Schweitzer
- Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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24
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The epidemiology, natural history and response to therapy of chronic hepatitis C differs significantly between African Americans and other ethnic populations. The reasons for these differences are not entirely clear but include mode of transmission, viral kinetics, immune responsiveness, and demographics. OBJECTIVE Review of the peer-reviewed literature and expert opinion from 1990 to 2005 regarding features of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in African Americans, differences in presentation and response to therapy, and treatment recommendations. RESULTS The epidemiology of HCV infection in African Americans appears to be predominantly associated with socio-economic status and high-risk behaviors. However, disease course, response to treatment, and virologic outcome may be a function of race. African Americans may clear HCV less efficiently than other ethnic groups, although impaired immune responsivity may also lead to decreased necro-inflammatory activity and progression to cirrhosis. Therapy-naive African Americans have lower sustained virologic response rates to this treatment than other populations. CONCLUSIONS Strategies to improve outcomes in African Americans include higher doses of current medications, medications with fewer adverse events, and new experimental molecular therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lennox J Jeffers
- Department of Medicine, Center for Liver Diseases, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL 33125, USA.
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25
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Nyamathi AM, Dixon EL, Wiley D, Christiani A, Lowe A. Hepatitis C virus infection among homeless men referred from a community clinic. West J Nurs Res 2006; 28:475-88. [PMID: 16672633 DOI: 10.1177/0193945906286620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In this study of factors related to Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in 104 homeless HCV-infected men and 94 uninfected homeless men, findings reveal that homeless men with HCV infection are older and more likely to be cocaine injectors than those not infected. Moreover, the sharing of needles, use of injected cocaine during the past 6 months, previous incarceration, veteran status, fair or poor health, and having multiple tattoos are also associated with HCV infection. Reports of having completed the HBV vaccination series, weekly marijuana use, and snorting cocaine or methamphetamine are negatively associated with HCV infection. Among men not reporting lifetime injection drug use, factors such as sharing toothbrushes, having multiple tattoos, being in fair or poor health, and past incarceration are associated with HCV infection. These findings may need to be considered when making screening decisions and counseling homeless male patients about HCV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adeline M Nyamathi
- School of Nursing, University of California, Los Angeles, 90095-1702, USA.
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26
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Thomas DL. Acute hepatitis C: a window of opportunity. Clin Infect Dis 2006; 42:1671-3. [PMID: 16705569 DOI: 10.1086/504333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2006] [Accepted: 03/01/2006] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
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27
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Abstract
Prisons are recognised worldwide as important sites for transmission of blood-borne viruses (BBVs). There are two reasons why transmission risks in prison are higher than in the community. First, in most western countries, many prison entrants have histories of injecting drug use, and thus already have high prevalences of BBVs. Second, the lack or under-supply of preventive measures (such as clean needle and syringes or condoms) in most prisons, combined with extreme social conditions, creates extra opportunities for BBV transmission. HIV prevalence in prisoners in more developed countries ranges from 0.2% in Australia to over 10% in some European nations. There are case reports of HIV being transmitted by sharing injecting equipment and sexual activity. Tattooing has been reported as a risk factor for the transmission of BBVs in prison. Access to condoms and needle and syringe programmes in prisons is extremely limited, despite success when they have been introduced. The vast majority of prison inmates are incarcerated for only a few months before returning to the community--thus they are, over the long term, more appropriately regarded as 'citizens' than 'prisoners'. Public health policy must involve all sections of the community, including prison inmates, if we are to reduce transmission of HIV and other BBVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- M E Hellard
- Epidemiology and Social Research Program, Macfarlane Burnet Institute for Medical Research and Public Health, Melbourne, Vic. 3004, Australia.
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28
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Martín Sánchez V, Marco Mouriño A, Saiz de la Hoya Zamácola P. Cómo combatir la hepatitis C en las cárceles. GASTROENTEROLOGIA Y HEPATOLOGIA 2005. [DOI: 10.1016/s0210-5705(05)74679-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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29
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Weinbaum CM, Sabin KM, Santibanez SS. Hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV in correctional populations: a review of epidemiology and prevention. AIDS 2005; 19 Suppl 3:S41-6. [PMID: 16251827 DOI: 10.1097/01.aids.0000192069.95819.aa] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The 2 million persons incarcerated in US prisons and jails are disproportionately affected by hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and HIV, with prevalences of infection two to ten times higher than in the general population. Infections are largely due to sex- and drug-related risk behaviors practised outside the correctional setting, although transmission of these infections has also been documented inside jails and prisons. Public health strategies to prevent morbidity and mortality from these infections should include hepatitis B vaccination, HCV and HIV testing and counseling, medical management of infected persons, and substance abuse treatment in incarcerated populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy M Weinbaum
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA.
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30
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Farley J, Vasdev S, Fischer B, Haydon E, Rehm J, Farley TA. Feasibility and outcome of HCV treatment in a Canadian federal prison population. Am J Public Health 2005; 95:1737-9. [PMID: 16131642 PMCID: PMC1449428 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2004.056150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
We assessed feasibility and outcome of hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment in male correctional inmates in British Columbia, Canada. We reviewed the medical charts of 114 treated inmates; 80 had complete data for treatment outcome. Approximately 4 of 5 inmates completed treatment (78.8%); 66.3% achieved sustained virological response. Those who completed treatment, those with injection drug use as a risk factor, and those with genotypes 2 and 3 were significantly more likely to achieve sustained virological response. HCV treatment in correctional inmates is feasible and effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Farley
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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31
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Macalino GE, Vlahov D, Dickinson BP, Schwartzapfel B, Rich JD. Community incidence of hepatitis B and C among reincarcerated women. Clin Infect Dis 2005; 41:998-1002. [PMID: 16142665 DOI: 10.1086/432936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2005] [Accepted: 05/24/2005] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The incarceration rate has increased 239% in the United States over the past 2 decades. This increase in incarceration has been fueled by the movement towards a criminal, rather than medical, response to the problem of drug dependence. For women in particular, incarceration and drug use are interdependent epidemics. Given that incarceration is common among drug-dependent persons, infectious diseases--including hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection--are prevalent among incarcerated persons. We sought to determine the incidence of HBV and HCV infection among recidivist women prisoners. METHODS From 1996 through 1997, excess from serum samples collected during HIV testing of female admittees to a state Department of Corrections facility were tested for HBV and HCV. Multiple samples obtained from women incarcerated multiple times during the study period were compared for incidence. RESULTS Baseline prevalences of markers of HBV and HCV were 36% and 34%, respectively. Incidence rates for HBV and HCV infection among reincarcerated women were 12.2 and 18.2 per 100 person-years, respectively. The majority of the time spent between serial intakes was not spent in the correctional facility; thus, incident infections likely occurred in the community. CONCLUSIONS Incidences of HBV and HCV infection among reincarcerated women were high. Prisons and jails can be efficient locations for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of hepatitis B and C through programs such as testing, counseling, education, vaccination, and linkage to medical and drug treatment services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace E Macalino
- Department of Medicine, Tufts-New England Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
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32
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Mohammad Alizadeh AH, Alavian SM, Jafari K, Yazdi N. Prevalence of hepatitis C virus infection and its related risk factors in drug abuser prisoners in Hamedan - Iran. World J Gastroenterol 2005; 11:4085-9. [PMID: 15996035 PMCID: PMC4502106 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v11.i26.4085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: Recent studies in Iran has shown that prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection among Iranian prisoners is high, in spite of low HCV seroprevalence in general population.
METHODS: This study was carried out in the central prison of Hamedan - Iran, in year 2002. Inmates were interviewed using a standard questionnaire including demographic, imprisonment history and HCV-related risk behaviors items. Thereafter, the sera drawn from the participants were tested for anti-HIV and anti-HCV antibodies.
RESULTS: A total number of 427 drug abuser inmates participated in our study. Three hundred and ninety-seven (93%) were men and 30 (7%) were women. Total number of IV drug abusers (IDA) and non-IV drug abusers (NIDA) was 149 (34.9%) and 278 (65.1%), respectively. The overall rate of antibody positivity among inmates was 0.9% for HIV and 30% for HCV. Of all IDAs, 31.5% and of NIDAs, 29.1% had serological evidence of HCV infection.
CONCLUSION: The seroprevalence of HCV infection among drug abuser prisoners in comparison with the general population in Iran, is very high (30% vs in italics 0.2%). Our results indicate the importance of policies to prevent transmission of HCV infection during and following incarceration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Houshang Mohammad Alizadeh
- Research Center for Gastroenterology and Liver Disease, Shaheed Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, 7th Floor, Taleghani Hospital, Yaman Str., Evin, Tehran 19857, Iran.
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Dolan KA, Shearer J, White B, Zhou J, Kaldor J, Wodak AD. Four-year follow-up of imprisoned male heroin users and methadone treatment: mortality, re-incarceration and hepatitis C infection. Addiction 2005; 100:820-8. [PMID: 15918812 DOI: 10.1111/j.1360-0443.2005.01050.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 191] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To examine the long-term impact of methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) on mortality, re-incarceration and hepatitis C seroconversion in imprisoned male heroin users. DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS The study cohort comprised 382 imprisoned male heroin users who had participated in a randomized controlled trial of prison-based MMT in 1997/98. Subjects were followed-up between 1998 and 2002 either in the general community or in prison. MEASUREMENTS All-cause mortality, re-incarceration, hepatitis C and HIV serostatus and MMT retention. FINDINGS There were no deaths recorded while subjects were enrolled in MMT. Seventeen subjects died while out of MMT, representing an untreated mortality rate of 2.0 per 100 person-years (95% CI, 1.2-3.2). Re-incarceration risk was lowest during MMT episodes of 8 months or longer (adjusted hazard ratio 0.3 (95% CI, 0.2-0.5; P < 0.001), although MMT periods 2 months or less were associated with greatest risk of re-incarceration (P < 0.001). Increased risk of hepatitis C seroconversion was significantly associated with prison sentences of less than 2 months [adjusted hazard ratio 20 (95% CI, 5-76; < P = 0.001)] and MMT episodes less than 5 months [adjusted hazard ratio 4.2 (95% CI, 1.4-12.6; P = 0.01)]. Subjects were at greatest risk of MMT dropout during short prison sentences of 1 month or less (adjusted hazard ratio 10.4 (95% CI, 7.0-15.7; P < 0.001). HIV incidence was 0.3 per 100 person-years (95% CI, 0.03-0.99). CONCLUSIONS Retention in MMT was associated with reduced mortality, re-incarceration rates and hepatitis C infection. Prison-based MMT programmes are integral to the continuity of treatment needed to ensure optimal outcomes for individual and public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate A Dolan
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
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Butler T, Kariminia A, Levy M, Kaldor J. Prisoners are at risk for hepatitis C transmission. Eur J Epidemiol 2005; 19:1119-22. [PMID: 15678792 DOI: 10.1007/s10654-004-1705-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Determine the incidence of hepatitis C virus antibodies among a cohort of prisoners. DESIGN Follow-up study of a random sample of prisoners who participated in a cross-sectional survey in 1996. SETTING 29 correctional centres in New South Wales (Australia). PARTICIPANTS 181 adult prisoners (163 men and 18 women). RESULTS The incidence of hepatitis C virus antibody among the 90 inmates who were seronegative at the first test in 1996 was 7.1 per 100 person-years (16 seroconverters). Among the 90 inmates, 37 had re-entered the prison system following release into the community and 53 had been continuously detained. The seroconversion rate was higher among the re-entrants compared with those who had been continuously incarcerated (10.8 vs. 4.5 per 100 person-years, p=0.07). However, when the data was stratified by injecting status, the serocon-version rate in the two groups was similar. Most of the seroconverters had histories of injecting drug users (14/16). The overall incidence among injectors was 19.3 per 100 person years (95% CI: 9.1-29.2). CONCLUSIONS Hepatitis C transmission occurs inside the prison with injecting drug use the likely cause. Among non-injectors, tattooing was the most likely mode of transmission. Harm minimisation measures with proven effectiveness need to be considered for this environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony Butler
- Centre for Health Research in Criminal Justice, Sydney 2036, Australia.
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Pérez CM, Suárez E, Torres EA, Román K, Colón V. Seroprevalence of hepatitis C virus and associated risk behaviours: a population-based study in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Int J Epidemiol 2005; 34:593-9. [PMID: 15802378 DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyi059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Limited information about the epidemiology of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is available in Puerto Rico, one of the areas hardest hit by the human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) epidemic. We estimated the prevalence of HCV infection and identified correlates of seropositivity in the municipality of San Juan, Puerto Rico. METHODS A probability cluster design was employed to select a sample of households representative of the population aged 21-64 years in San Juan during 2001-2002. All 964 subjects completed a face-to-face interview to gather data on demographics and self-reported risk behaviours followed by venipuncture for HCV antibody testing. Variables that were at least marginally associated with HCV seroprevalence (P < 0.10) in the bivariate analyses were considered for inclusion into the multiple logistic regression model to estimate the adjusted prevalence odds ratio (POR). RESULTS Overall weighted prevalence of HCV infection was 6.3% (95% CI 3.6-10.9%). A significant (P < 0.05) higher prevalence was observed among subjects with the following characteristics: age 30-49 (9.5%), male sex (10.6%), < or =12 years of education (9.6%), no health coverage (12.6%), lifetime heroin use (39.2%), lifetime cocaine use (39.6%), tattooing practices (34.2%), history of imprisonment (32.8%), and self-reported histories of hepatitis B virus infection (30.4%) and HIV/AIDS (92.1%). Multivariate logistic regression revealed that tattooing practices (POR = 8.9; 95% CI 1.7-44.7), lifetime cocaine use (POR = 5.5; 95% CI 2.2-13.5), blood transfusions prior to 1992 (POR = 4.0; 95% CI 1.6-10.1), lifetime heroin use (POR = 3.3; 95% CI 1.4-7.8), and history of imprisonment (POR = 2.3; 95% CI 1.1-4.9) remained significantly associated with HCV seropositivity. CONCLUSIONS The large prevalence of HCV infection observed in Puerto Rican adults residing in San Juan suggest that HCV infection is an emerging public health concern and merits further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia M Pérez
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Graduate School of Public Health, Medical Sciences Campus, University of Puerto Rico, PO Box 365067, San Juan, Puerto Rico 00936-5067
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Sterling RK, Brown RS, Hofmann CM, Luketic VA, Stravitz RT, Sanyal AJ, Contos MJ, Mills AS, Smith V, Shiffman ML. The spectrum of chronic hepatitis C virus infection in the Virginia Correctional System: development of a strategy for the evaluation and treatment of inmates with HCV. Am J Gastroenterol 2005; 100:313-21. [PMID: 15667488 DOI: 10.1111/j.1572-0241.2005.40116.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) is common in the inmate population of the United States. Long-standing HCV can progress to cirrhosis, which can contribute to significant morbidity and mortality. However, those inmates with histologically mild disease are unlikely to develop liver-related morbidity or mortality during their period of incarceration. Our objective was to develop an economic strategy for evaluation and treatment of inmates with chronic HCV. METHODS AND MEASURES A retrospective cohort analysis of 302 inmates within the Virginia Department of Corrections (VDOC) who underwent liver biopsy for chronic HCV at the Virginia Commonwealth University Health System between 1998 and 2002 was performed. The data from this analysis was to utilized to develop a cost model for treatment of chronic HCV in this population based upon biochemical or histologic criteria. We used the perspective of the VDOC using actual costs paid to providers, hospitals, and pharmacies. The primary endpoint was cost-effectiveness of HCV treatment. RESULTS Eighty percent of inmates with chronic HCV were genotype 1, 49% had a normal value for serum ALT at the time of evaluation, 30% had no fibrosis, and 24% had bridging fibrosis or cirrhosis. The cost to evaluate and treat 100 consecutive inmates with peginterferon and ribavirin regardless of serum ALT and liver histology was calculated to be $1,775,900 or $35,500 per sustained virologic response (SVR). Although the cost declined by 50% if only those patients with an elevated serum ALT were treated, 45% of those inmates with varying degrees of fibrosis, and 21% with cirrhosis would not have received therapy utilizing this scenario. In contrast, the cost of performing liver biopsy and treating only those patients with any degree of fibrosis was $1,367,043; a savings of slightly more than $400,000 per 100 patients evaluated. The overall cost of treatment was most influenced by the price of peginterferon and ribavirin, which declined as the histologic criteria utilized for treatment increased. CONCLUSIONS A strategy in which inmates with chronic HCV are evaluated and a decision regarding treatment is based upon either biochemical or histologic criteria, which appears to balance both the health-care rights of the inmate and the impact of treating this disease on the financial and other resources of the correctional system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard K Sterling
- Hepatology Section and Division of Pathology, Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, Richmond, Virginia
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Macalino GE, Vlahov D, Sanford-Colby S, Patel S, Sabin K, Salas C, Rich JD. Prevalence and incidence of HIV, hepatitis B virus, and hepatitis C virus infections among males in Rhode Island prisons. Am J Public Health 2004; 94:1218-23. [PMID: 15226146 PMCID: PMC1448424 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.94.7.1218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We evaluated prevalence and intraprison incidence of HIV, hepatitis B virus, and hepatitis C virus infections among male prison inmates. METHODS We observed intake prevalence for 4269 sentenced inmates at the Rhode Island Adult Correctional Institute between 1998 and 2000 and incidence among 446 continuously incarcerated inmates (incarcerated for 12 months or more). RESULTS HIV, hepatitis B virus, and hepatitis C virus prevalences were 1.8%, 20.2%, and 23.1%, respectively. Infections were significantly associated with injection drug use (odds ratio = 10.1, 7.9, and 32.4). Incidence per 100 person-years was 0 for HIV, 2.7 for HBV, and 0.4 for HCV. CONCLUSIONS High infection prevalence among inmates represents a significant community health issue. General disease prevention efforts must include prevention within correctional facilities. The high observed intraprison incidence of HBV underscores the need to vaccinate prison populations.
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Sterling RK, Stravitz RT, Luketic VA, Sanyal AJ, Contos MJ, Mills AS, Shiffman ML. A comparison of the spectrum of chronic hepatitis C virus between Caucasians and African Americans. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2004; 2:469-73. [PMID: 15181614 DOI: 10.1016/s1542-3565(04)00164-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Differences in hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related liver disease between Caucasians and African Americans remain controversial. METHODS We performed a retrospective analysis of 302 consecutive inmates in the Virginia Department of Corrections evaluated for HCV between October 1998 and July 2002. All subjects were anti-HCV positive, HCV treatment naive, human immunodeficiency virus and HBV negative, and had compensated liver disease. RESULTS The mean age of the cohort was 41 years; they were 91% male and 51% Caucasian. The mean ALT level was 94 U/L, 49% had a normal ALT level, and 80% were genotype 1. The mean Knodell histologic activity index (HAI) was 7.03, with bridging fibrosis in 18% and cirrhosis in 6%. When analyzed by race, the mean ALT level (106 vs. 79 U/L; P = 0.01), proportion with normal ALT level (46% vs. 57%; P = 0.06), and proportion with genotype 1 (67% vs. 94%; P < 0.001) were different between Caucasians and African Americans, respectively. Although the HAI and proportion with bridging fibrosis/cirrhosis were similar between groups, African Americans had lower piecemeal necrosis (1.41 vs. 1.72; P = 0.034) and fibrosis (1.12 vs. 1.40; P = 0.047) scores compared to Caucasians. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that age, ALT, and race were significant independent variables associated with total HAI, piecemeal necrosis, and fibrosis scores. CONCLUSIONS Although the overall spectrum of liver disease is similar, African Americans have less piecemeal necrosis and lower fibrosis scores independent of age and ALT compared with Caucasians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard K Sterling
- Division of Gastroenterology, Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center, Richmond 23298-0341, USA.
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Sterling RK, Hofmann CM, Luketic VA, Sanyal AJ, Contos MJ, Mills AS, Shiffman ML. Treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus in the virginia department of corrections: can compliance overcome racial differences to response? Am J Gastroenterol 2004; 99:866-72. [PMID: 15128352 DOI: 10.1111/j.1572-0241.2004.30310.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) is common in the correctional setting and there are few data on the use of interferon (IFN)/ribavirin(RVN) combination therapy in this population. Given the high proportion of African Americans (AA) in correctional facilities, which may be associated with reduced response rates, the correctional setting allows a unique opportunity to compare the response rates of AA to Caucasians (CA). The present study describes our experience of treating HCV in the inmate population of the Virginia Department of Corrections. METHODS Of the 119 inmates evaluated between 1998 and 2000, a retrospective analysis of 59 consecutive inmates (mean age 41, 83% male, 55% CA, 73% genotype (GT)1, and 41% with advanced fibrosis) who underwent HCV therapy with IFN a-2b (3 MU TIW) and RVN (1,000-1,200 mg/d) under direct observation was performed. Patients were followed by telemedicine and the primary endpoint was sustained virologic response (SVR) defined as an undetectable HCV RNA at least 24 wk after completion of therapy. RESULTS All but one patient completed at least 12 wk of therapy and no patient required dose reduction. By wk 24, 34 inmates (58%) responded (negative HCV RNA) which was higher in CA compared to AA (70%vs 40%; p= 0.037). Although overall SVR was higher in CA compared to AA (41%vs 28%; p= ns), we observed no difference in SVR when comparing only GT 1 CA to AA (33%vs 29%). CONCLUSIONS HCV can be effectively treated in the correctional setting with response rates similar to, if not better than the published literature. In this controlled setting of direct observational therapy, we observed similar SVR in CA and AA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard K Sterling
- Section of Hepatology, Virginia Commonwealth University Health System/Medical College of Virginia, Richmond, Virginia 23298-0341, USA
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Dolan KA, Shearer J, MacDonald M, Mattick RP, Hall W, Wodak AD. A randomised controlled trial of methadone maintenance treatment versus wait list control in an Australian prison system. Drug Alcohol Depend 2003; 72:59-65. [PMID: 14563543 DOI: 10.1016/s0376-8716(03)00187-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 143] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim was to determine whether methadone maintenance treatment reduced heroin use, syringe sharing and HIV or hepatitis C incidence among prisoners. METHODS All eligible prisoners seeking drug treatment were randomised to methadone or a waitlist control group from 1997 to 1998 and followed up after 4 months. Heroin use was measured by hair analysis and self report; drugs used and injected and syringe sharing were measured by self report. Hepatitis C and HIV incidence was measured by serology. RESULTS Of 593 eligible prisoners, 382 (64%) were randomised to MMT (n=191) or control (n=191). 129 treated and 124 control subjects were followed up at 5 months. Heroin use was significantly lower among treated than control subjects at follow up. Treated subjects reported lower levels of drug injection and syringe sharing at follow up. There was no difference in HIV or hepatitis C incidence. CONCLUSIONS Consideration should be given to the introduction of prison methadone programs particular where community based programs exist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate A Dolan
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW, Sydney NSW 2052, Australia.
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Baillargeon J, Wu H, Kelley MJ, Grady J, Linthicum L, Dunn K. Hepatitis C seroprevalence among newly incarcerated inmates in the Texas correctional system. Public Health 2003; 117:43-8. [PMID: 12802904 DOI: 10.1016/s0033-3506(02)00009-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The seroprevalence of hepatitis C (HCV) infection was examined among a sample of incoming inmates in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) prison system. Rates were compared across demographic factors and three types of prison facilities: substance abuse felony punishment units (SAFPs), state jails and prisons. The study sample consisted of 3712 incoming inmates incarcerated for any duration, dating from 1 November 1998 to 31 May 1999. Among males, inmates entering SAFPs and state jails had comparable HCV infection rates (29.7 and 27.0%, respectively) to those entering prisons (27.3%). Among females, inmates entering prisons had a higher rate of infection (48.6%) than those entering state jails (35.1%) or SAFPs (38.3%). For both genders, blacks exhibited a lower overall infection rate than whites and Hispanics, and HCV seroprevalence increased in a stepwise fashion with age. All subgroups of TDCJ inmates, including those held in alternative correctional facilities, exhibited HCV infection rates that were comparable with previous reports of inmate populations, but dramatically higher than general community samples. Given that most inmates held in alternative facilities will return to the general community in a short period of time, understanding the HCV infection rates in these subgroups holds particular public health relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Baillargeon
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Health Science Center, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78284-7802, USA.
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Abstract
Managing patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection consists primarily of antiviral treatment, currently with peginterferon and ribavirin. Unfortunately, treatment recommendations derive largely from trials that have focused on highly selected patient populations. As a consequence of the strict inclusion and exclusion criteria in these studies, more than half of all HCV-infected patients would be ineligible for enrollment. Even among the selected patients enrolled into studies, only 50% achieve a sustained virological response (SVR). Patients not eligible for current therapies include those with mild disease and normal alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels, patients with advanced and decompensated liver disease, children, the elderly, patients with ongoing or recent alcohol and substance abuse, renal disease, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, severe psychiatric or neurologic illness, autoimmune disorders, solid organ transplant, and other significant comorbid conditions. Because these patients have been excluded from most clinical trials, little is known about the safety or efficacy of therapy in these populations. The expense and side effects of therapy are also an impediment to treatment of patients who are on public assistance, in prisons, and in institutions. Clearly, new efforts and new approaches are needed to expand the eligibility for antiviral therapy of hepatitis C and make treatment more available for understudied populations with this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doris B Strader
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center and Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC 20422, USA.
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Abstract
Managing patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection consists primarily of antiviral treatment, currently with peginterferon and ribavirin. Unfortunately, treatment recommendations derive largely from trials that have focused on highly selected patient populations. As a consequence of the strict inclusion and exclusion criteria in these studies, more than half of all HCV-infected patients would be ineligible for enrollment. Even among the selected patients enrolled into studies, only 50% achieve a sustained virological response (SVR). Patients not eligible for current therapies include those with mild disease and normal alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels, patients with advanced and decompensated liver disease, children, the elderly, patients with ongoing or recent alcohol and substance abuse, renal disease, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, severe psychiatric or neurologic illness, autoimmune disorders, solid organ transplant, and other significant comorbid conditions. Because these patients have been excluded from most clinical trials, little is known about the safety or efficacy of therapy in these populations. The expense and side effects of therapy are also an impediment to treatment of patients who are on public assistance, in prisons, and in institutions. Clearly, new efforts and new approaches are needed to expand the eligibility for antiviral therapy of hepatitis C and make treatment more available for understudied populations with this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doris B Strader
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center and Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC 20422, USA.
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Hammett TM, Harmon MP, Rhodes W. The burden of infectious disease among inmates of and releasees from US correctional facilities, 1997. Am J Public Health 2002; 92:1789-94. [PMID: 12406810 PMCID: PMC1447330 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.92.11.1789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 308] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study developed national estimates of the burden of selected infectious diseases among correctional inmates and releases during 1997. METHODS Data from surveys, surveillance, and other reports were synthesized to develop these estimates. RESULTS During 1997, 20% to 26% of all people living with HIV in the United States, 29% to 43% of all those infected with the hepatitis C virus, and 40% of all those who had tuberculosis disease in that year passed through a correctional facility. CONCLUSIONS Correctional facilities are critical settings for the efficient delivery of prevention and treatment interventions for infectious diseases. Such interventions stand to benefit not only inmates, their families, and partners, but also the public health of the communities to which inmates return.
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Post JJ, Dolan KA, Whybin LR, Carter IW, Haber PS, Lloyd AR. Acute hepatitis C virus infection in an Australian prison inmate: tattooing as a possible transmission route. Med J Aust 2001; 174:183-4. [PMID: 11270759 DOI: 10.5694/j.1326-5377.2001.tb143214.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Clinically apparent hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection developed in a prison inmate after two tattooing episodes within the recognised incubation period for HCV infection. Seroconversion and HCV viraemia with subsequent resolution of hepatitis and loss of plasma viraemia were documented. Introducing licensed tattooists, and thereby improving infection control practices, may reduce the risk of hepatitis C virus infection in prisons.
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Affiliation(s)
- J J Post
- Inflammation Research Unit, School of Pathology, University of NSW, Sydney.
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Murphy EL, Bryzman SM, Glynn SA, Ameti DI, Thomson RA, Williams AE, Nass CC, Ownby HE, Schreiber GB, Kong F, Neal KR, Nemo GJ. Risk factors for hepatitis C virus infection in United States blood donors. NHLBI Retrovirus Epidemiology Donor Study (REDS). Hepatology 2000; 31:756-62. [PMID: 10706569 DOI: 10.1002/hep.510310329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Injection drug use (IDU) is a known risk factor for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, but the strength of other parenteral and sexual risk factors is unclear. In 1997, we performed a case-control study of 2,316 HCV-seropositive blood donors and 2,316 seronegative donors matched on age, sex, race/ethnicity, blood center, and first-time versus repeat-donor status. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using conditional logistic regression. Questionnaires were returned by 758 (33%) HCV(+) and 1,039 (45%) control subjects (P =.001). The final multivariate model included only the following independent HCV risk factors: IDU (OR = 49.6; 95% CI: 20.3-121.1), blood transfusion in non-IDU (OR = 10.9; 95% CI: 6.5-18.2), sex with an IDU (OR = 6.3; 95% CI: 3.3-12.0), having been in jail more than 3 days (OR = 2.9; 95% CI: 1.3-6.6), religious scarification (OR = 2.8; 95% CI: 1.2-7. 0), having been stuck or cut with a bloody object (OR = 2.1; 95% CI: 1.1-4.1), pierced ears or body parts (OR = 2.0; 95% CI: 1.1-3.7), and immunoglobulin injection (OR = 1.6; 95% CI: 1.0-2.6). Although drug inhalation and a high number of lifetime sex partners were significantly more common among HCV seropositives, they were not associated with HCV after controlling for IDU and other risk factors. IDU, blood transfusion among non-IDU, and sex with an IDU are strong risk factors for HCV among United States blood donors. Weaker associations with incarceration, religious scarification, being stuck or cut with a bloody object, pierced ears or body parts, and immunoglobulin injection must be interpreted with caution.
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Affiliation(s)
- E L Murphy
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143-0884, USA.
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Abstract
The hepatitis C epidemic has extended well into the correctional population where individuals predominantly originate from high-risk environments and have high-risk behaviors. Epidemiologic data estimate that 30% to 40% of the 1.8 million inmates in the United States are infected with the hepatitis C virus (HCV), the majority of whom were infected before incarceration. As in the general population, injection drug use accounts for the majority of HCV infections in this group--one to two thirds of inmates have a history of injection drug use before incarceration and continue to do so while in prison. Although correctional facilities also represent a high-risk environment for HCV infection because of a continued high incidence of drug use and high-risk sexual activities, available data indicate a low HCV seroconversion rate of 1.1 per 100 person-years in prison. Moreover, a high annual turnover rate means that many inmates return to their previous high-risk environments and behaviors that are conducive either to acquiring or spreading HCV. Despite a very high prevalence of HCV infection within the US correctional system, identification and treatment of at-risk individuals is inconsistent, at best. Variable access to correctional health-care resources, limited funding, high inmate turnover rates, and deficient follow-up care after release represent a few of the factors that confound HCV control and prevention in this group. Future efforts must focus on establishing an accurate knowledge base and implementing education, policies, and procedures for the prevention and treatment of hepatitis C in correctional populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- R W Reindollar
- Center for Liver Diseases, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina 28207, USA
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