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Burton-McKeich GK, Lafferty L, Treloar C, Markus C, Matthews S, Applegate TL, Causer L, Grebely J, Marshall AD. "It's not just running the test": Operator experiences of implementing a decentralised hepatitis C point-of-care testing program in Australia. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2025; 140:104800. [PMID: 40245692 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2025.104800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2025] [Accepted: 04/01/2025] [Indexed: 04/19/2025]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The decentralisation of hepatitis C virus (HCV) point-of-care testing is a core part of Australia's strategy to meet WHO elimination targets. However, little is known about the experiences of providers implementing these interventions and thus what is needed to improve integration. The study aim was to understand operator experiences, including the challenges and enablers, of implementing point-of-care testing as part of a National Point-of-Care Testing Program. METHODS Providers who were enrolled in the National Program and qualified to perform point-of-care testing were invited to participate in semi-structured qualitative interviews between April and August 2023. Data were analysed according to iterative categorisation and themes were organised according to Service delivery, Resources, and Governance-elements of the Health Systems Dynamics Framework. RESULTS Of the 31 participants, most were from New South Wales (n = 17), were practicing clinicians (n = 18), worked in outpatient or community health clinics (n = 21), and had no previous experience using a molecular point-of-care testing device (n = 24). Many participants struggled to deliver HCV testing and treatment according to national HCV management guidelines. Some participants avoided using the point-of-care testing device altogether. Others found it challenging to manage the administrative load of delivering the National Program, including planning outreach and following-up clients. These challenges were exacerbated by workforce shortages, difficult-to-navigate IT systems, and a lack of specific implementation advice from Program leadership. CONCLUSIONS This study illustrates several challenges to and enablers of adopting a decentralised HCV point-of-care testing program, highlighting the need to further explore what providers require to effectively implement these interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lise Lafferty
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Kensington, 2033 Sydney, Australia; Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Kensington, 2033 Sydney, Australia
| | - Carla Treloar
- Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Kensington, 2033 Sydney, Australia
| | - Corey Markus
- International Centre for Point of Care Testing, Flinders University, 5042 Adelaide, Australia
| | - Susan Matthews
- International Centre for Point of Care Testing, Flinders University, 5042 Adelaide, Australia
| | - Tanya L Applegate
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Kensington, 2033 Sydney, Australia
| | - Louise Causer
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Kensington, 2033 Sydney, Australia
| | - Jason Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Kensington, 2033 Sydney, Australia
| | - Alison D Marshall
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Kensington, 2033 Sydney, Australia; Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Kensington, 2033 Sydney, Australia
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Nilsson SS, Demant J, Thønnings S, Weis N, Westh H, Pinholt M. Dried blood spot: A diagnostic detection method for HBV, HCV and HIV nucleic acid using a single drop of blood. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2025; 111:116661. [PMID: 39706101 DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2024.116661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2024] [Revised: 11/29/2024] [Accepted: 12/16/2024] [Indexed: 12/23/2024]
Abstract
The global strategy to eradicate Hepatitis B (HBV), Hepatitis C (HCV), and HIV by 2030 is critical due to their impact and challenges to healthcare systems. HCV is curable, but HBV and HIV are only suppressible, with a vaccine available solely for HBV. Innovative diagnostic methods are needed, especially for high-risk populations like people who inject drugs (PWID). This study validates a dried blood spot (DBS) nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) using the Hologic Panther system for detecting HBV, HCV, and HIV. The method was used to screen among PWID in the Capital Region of Denmark. The DBS method demonstrated high sensitivity, with a 95 % limit of detection (LoD) of 2711 IU/mL for HBV, 525 IU/mL for HCV, and 4022 copies/mL for HIV. Screening of 83 PWID in Denmark revealed a 13 % prevalence of active HCV infection, offering significant benefits in settings where traditional venous access is difficult.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Strunge Nilsson
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark; Department of Clinical Microbiology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev, Denmark.
| | - Jonas Demant
- Detpartment of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Sara Thønnings
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Nina Weis
- Detpartment of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Henrik Westh
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mette Pinholt
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Hvidovre, Denmark
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Stevens A, Lafferty L, Treloar C, Cunningham EB, Dore GJ, Grebely J, Marshall AD. Acceptability of hepatitis C testing using point-of-care testing and dried blood spot collection among people at risk of hepatitis C infection. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2025; 137:104720. [PMID: 39892268 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2025.104720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2024] [Revised: 12/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2025] [Indexed: 02/03/2025]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C (HCV) testing innovations such as dried blood spot (DBS) and point-of-care testing should have fewer client-related barriers than traditional diagnostic pathways, yet there is limited evidence on their acceptability among people who inject drugs. To address this gap, this study sought to evaluate the acceptability of DBS and point-of-care testing among people at risk of HCV infection and understand the circumstances in which such testing is most preferred. METHODS Participants were recruited from community sites involved in the Australian HCV Point-of-Care Testing Program. Inclusion criteria were aged ≥18 years, sufficient proficiency in the English language, history of HCV testing at least once, and informed consent. Between June and August 2023, in-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted via telephone with clients on their perceptions and experiences of HCV DBS and point-of-care testing. Data were coded and analysed thematically with Sekhon's theoretical framework of acceptability. RESULTS Forty participants were interviewed: 18 had previously received HCV DBS testing, 8 had received HCV point-of-care testing, 8 had experience with both, and 6 had no prior experience with either test. Most participants preferred point-of-care compared to DBS and venepuncture due to the shorter time to result and some identified that this reduced anxiety while waiting for results (burden). Among participants in this study, many felt that the provision of non-judgemental care was more important than whether testing was performed by peers (ethicality). Many participants indicated a preference for assisted collection when compared to self-collected or mail testing service (self-efficacy). CONCLUSION Applying Sekhon's acceptability framework highlighted remaining service gaps to bridge client HCV testing experiences, including enhanced education on testing modalities and their results, an increased need for non-judgemental care, and the use of peer support in community settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lise Lafferty
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW, Australia
| | - Carla Treloar
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Alison D Marshall
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW, Australia; Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW, Australia
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Kim TV, Pham TND, Phan P, Le MHN, Le Q, Nguyen PT, Nguyen HT, Nguyen DX, Trang B, Cao C, Gurakar A, Hoffmann CJ, Dao DY. Effectiveness and implementation of decentralized, community- and primary care-based strategies in promoting hepatitis B testing uptake: a systematic review and meta-analysis. EClinicalMedicine 2024; 76:102818. [PMID: 39309722 PMCID: PMC11416547 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2024.102818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2024] [Revised: 08/20/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Expanding chronic hepatitis B (CHB) testing through effective implementation strategies in primary- and community-care setting is crucial for elimination. Our study aimed to determine the effectiveness of all available strategies in the literature and evaluate their specifications and implementation outcomes, thereby informing future programming and policymaking. Methods We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis (PROSPERO CRD42023455781), searching Scopus, Embase, PubMed, and CINAHL databases up to June 05, 2024, for randomized controlled trials investigating primary- and community-care-based implementation strategies to promote CHB testing. Studies were screened against a priori eligibility criteria, and their data were extracted using a standardized protocol if included. ROB-2 was used to assess the risk of bias. Implementation strategies' components were characterized using the Behavior Change Wheel (BCW) framework. Random-effect models were applied to pool the effectiveness estimate by strategy. Mixed-effect meta-regression was employed to investigate if effectiveness varied by the number of strategy's BCW components. Findings 7146 unique records were identified. 25 studies were eligible for the review, contributing 130,598 participants. 19 studies were included in the meta-analysis. No studies were conducted in low-and-middle-income countries. Implementation outcomes were reported in only ten studies (40%). Community-based strategies included lay health workers-led education (Pooled Risk Difference = 27.9% [95% Confidence Interval = 3.4-52.4], I2 = 99.3%) or crowdsourced education on social media (3.1% [-2.2 to 8.4], 0.0%). Primary care-based strategies consisted of electronic alert system (8.4% [3.7-13.1], 95.0%) and healthcare providers-led education (HCPs, 62.5% [53.1-71.9], 27.5%). The number of BCW-framework-driven strategy components showed a significant dose-response relationship with effectiveness. Interpretation HCPs-led education stands out, and more enriched multicomponent strategies had better effectiveness. Future implementation strategies should consider critical contextual factors and policies to achieve a sustainable impact towards hepatitis B elimination targets. Funding Tran Dolch Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Hepatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore MD, USA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanh Van Kim
- Center of Excellence for Liver Disease in Viet Nam, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine, Viet Nam
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Trang Ngoc Doan Pham
- Center of Excellence for Liver Disease in Viet Nam, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Paul Phan
- Center of Excellence for Liver Disease in Viet Nam, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Minh Huu Nhat Le
- Center of Excellence for Liver Disease in Viet Nam, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- International Ph.D. Program in Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Research Center for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Quan Le
- Center of Excellence for Liver Disease in Viet Nam, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Phuong Thi Nguyen
- University of Health Sciences, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City (VNUHCM-UHS), Binh Duong, Viet Nam
| | - Ha Thi Nguyen
- University of Health Sciences, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City (VNUHCM-UHS), Binh Duong, Viet Nam
| | - Dan Xuan Nguyen
- Center of Excellence for Liver Disease in Viet Nam, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Binh Trang
- Center of Excellence for Liver Disease in Viet Nam, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Chelsea Cao
- Center of Excellence for Liver Disease in Viet Nam, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ahmet Gurakar
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Christopher J. Hoffmann
- Center of Excellence for Liver Disease in Viet Nam, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Doan Y Dao
- Center of Excellence for Liver Disease in Viet Nam, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Yazdi-Doughty J, Santella AJ, Porter S, Watt RG, Burns F. Exploring the Acceptability of HIV Testing in the UK Dental Setting: A Qualitative Study. Dent J (Basel) 2024; 12:246. [PMID: 39195090 DOI: 10.3390/dj12080246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
HIV point of care testing (POCT) is a common approach to expanding testing into non-specialised settings. Dental services have untapped potential to screen for health conditions including HIV. However, the perspectives of UK dental patients, dental professionals, and people with HIV are unknown. Ten focus groups were undertaken with dental patients, professionals, and people with HIV. The Framework method was used to analyse the qualitative data. Six themes were generated from the focus group data. The themes explored perceptions of HIV, the purpose, appropriateness, and acceptability of HIV testing in dental settings, and new processes that would need to be established in order to successfully implement point of care HIV testing in UK dental settings. Training needs were identified including communication skills and updates to current knowledge about HIV. HIV testing in dental settings is generally acceptable to dental patients, dental professionals, and PWH. However, of concern were logistical challenges and the risk of patients surprised at being offered an HIV test during a visit to the dentist. Nonetheless, the public health benefits of the intervention were well understood, i.e., early detection of HIV and initiation of treatment to improve health outcomes. Dental teams were able to generate novel solutions that could help to overcome contextual and logistical challenges to implementing HIV testing in dental settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janine Yazdi-Doughty
- Department of Epidemiology & Public Health, Faculty of Pop Health Sciences, University College London, London WC1E 7HB, UK
- School of Dentistry, University of Liverpool, Pembroke Place, Liverpool L3 5PS, UK
| | - Anthony J Santella
- Marion Peckham Egan School of Nursing & Health Studies, Department of Public Health, Fairfield University, Fairfield, CT 06824, USA
| | - Stephen Porter
- Eastman Dental Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University College London, London NW3 2PF, UK
| | - Richard G Watt
- Department of Epidemiology & Public Health, Faculty of Pop Health Sciences, University College London, London WC1E 7HB, UK
| | - Fiona Burns
- Eastman Dental Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University College London, London NW3 2PF, UK
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London NW3 2PF, UK
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Doyle JS, Heath K, Elsum I, Douglass C, Wade A, Kasza J, Allardice K, Von Bibra S, Chan K, Camesella B, Guzman R, Bryant M, Thompson AJ, Stoové MA, Snelling TL, Scott N, Spelman T, Anderson D, Richmond J, Howell J, Andric N, Dietze PM, Higgs P, Sacks-Davis R, Forbes AB, Hellard ME, Pedrana AE. Same-visit hepatitis C testing and treatment to accelerate cure among people who inject drugs (the QuickStart Study): a cluster randomised cross-over trial protocol. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e083502. [PMID: 38960465 PMCID: PMC11227801 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-083502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite universal access to government-funded direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) in 2016, the rate of hepatitis C treatment uptake in Australia has declined substantially. Most hepatitis C is related to injecting drug use; reducing the hepatitis C burden among people who inject drugs (PWID) is, therefore, paramount to reach hepatitis C elimination targets. Increasing DAA uptake by PWID is important for interrupting transmission and reducing incidence, as well as reducing morbidity and mortality and improving quality of life of PWID and meeting Australia's hepatitis C elimination targets. METHODS AND ANALYSIS A cluster randomised cross-over trial will be conducted with three intervention arms and a control arm. Arm A will receive rapid hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibody testing; arm B will receive rapid HCV antibody and rapid RNA testing; arm C will receive rapid HCV antibody testing and same-day treatment initiation for HCV antibody-positive participants; the control arm will receive standard of care. The primary outcomes will be (a) the proportion of participants with HCV commencing treatment and (b) the proportion of participants with HCV achieving cure. Analyses will be conducted on an intention-to-treat basis with mixed-effects logistic regression models. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study has been approved by the Alfred Ethics Committee (number HREC/64731/Alfred-2020-217547). Each participant will provide written informed consent. Reportable adverse events will be reported to the reviewing ethics committee. The findings will be presented at scientific conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT05016609. TRIAL PROGRESSION The study commenced recruitment on 9 March 2022 and is expected to complete recruitment in December 2024.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph S Doyle
- Infectious Diseases, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Imogen Elsum
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Amanda Wade
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jessica Kasza
- Population Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | - Kico Chan
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Alexander J Thompson
- Gastroenterology, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medicine at St Vincent's Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Thomas L Snelling
- Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Nick Scott
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Jessica Howell
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Gastroenterology, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nada Andric
- HepatitisWA, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Paul M Dietze
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Population Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter Higgs
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Andrew B Forbes
- Population Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Margaret E Hellard
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Population Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alisa E Pedrana
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Population Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Mongale E, Allen S, Brew I, Ludlow-Rhodes A, Royal N, Waldron J, Alexander H, Christensen L, Dorrington K, Milner A, Missen L, Jones A, Troke PJ. Development and optimisation of a reception testing protocol designed to eliminate HCV in the UK prison population. JHEP Rep 2024; 6:100937. [PMID: 38169900 PMCID: PMC10758963 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2023.100937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims Micro-elimination of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in high-risk populations is a feasible approach towards achieving the World Health Organization's targets for viral hepatitis elimination by 2030. Prisons represent an area of high HCV prevalence and so initiatives that improve testing and treatment of residents are needed to eliminate HCV from prisons. This initiative aimed to improve the HCV screening and treatment rates of new residents arriving at prisons in England. Methods A rapid test and treat pathway was developed and implemented in 47 prisons in England between May 2019 and October 2021 as a healthcare service improvement initiative. Prison healthcare staff performed opt-out HCV testing for all new residents at each prison within 7 days of arrival, and those who were positive for HCV RNA were offered treatment with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs). The Hepatitis C Trust provided peer support for all residents on treatment and those who were released into the community. Results Of 107,260 new arrivals, 98,882 (92.2%) were offered HCV antibody testing, 63,137 (63.9%) were tested and 1,848 were treated. Testing rates increased from 53.7% in Year 1 to 86.0% in Year 3. Between May 2020 and October 2021, 40,727 residents were tested, 2,286 residents were positive for HCV antibodies and 940 residents were HCV RNA positive, giving an antibody prevalence of 5.6% and an RNA prevalence of 2.3%. A total of 921 residents were referred for treatment and 915 initiated DAA treatment (97.3% of whom were HCV RNA positive). Conclusions This initiative showed that an opt-out HCV test and treat initiative in prison receptions is feasible and can be adapted to the needs of individual prisons as a viable way to achieve HCV micro-elimination. Impact and implications Prisons represent an area of high HCV prevalence and so initiatives that improve testing and treatment of residents are needed to eliminate HCV from prisons. The reception testing protocol improved HCV screening in new arrivals across 47 prisons in England and could be a viable way for countries to achieve HCV micro-elimination in their prison systems. The reception testing protocol presented here can be adapted to the individual needs of prisons, globally, to improve HCV screening and treatment in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Mongale
- Practice Plus Group, 5–6 Napier Court, Napier Road, Berkshire RG1 8BW, UK
| | - Samantha Allen
- Practice Plus Group, 5–6 Napier Court, Napier Road, Berkshire RG1 8BW, UK
| | - Iain Brew
- Practice Plus Group, 5–6 Napier Court, Napier Road, Berkshire RG1 8BW, UK
| | | | - Nichola Royal
- Practice Plus Group, 5–6 Napier Court, Napier Road, Berkshire RG1 8BW, UK
| | - Julia Waldron
- Practice Plus Group, 5–6 Napier Court, Napier Road, Berkshire RG1 8BW, UK
| | - Hannah Alexander
- Practice Plus Group, 5–6 Napier Court, Napier Road, Berkshire RG1 8BW, UK
- Defence Primary Healthcare, UK
| | | | | | - Andrew Milner
- Gilead Sciences Ltd, 280 High Holborn, London WC1V 7EE, UK
| | - Louise Missen
- Gilead Sciences Ltd, 280 High Holborn, London WC1V 7EE, UK
| | - Andy Jones
- Gilead Sciences Ltd, 280 High Holborn, London WC1V 7EE, UK
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Feld JJ. Novel biomarkers for HBV including point-of-care. Clin Liver Dis (Hoboken) 2024; 23:e0205. [PMID: 38952698 PMCID: PMC11216669 DOI: 10.1097/cld.0000000000000205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
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Wong NS, Tang W, Miller WC, Ong JJ, Lee SS. Expanded HIV testing in non-key populations - the neglected strategy for minimising late diagnosis. Int J Infect Dis 2024; 138:38-40. [PMID: 38036260 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2023.11.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ngai Sze Wong
- S.H. Ho Research Centre for Infectious Diseases, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Weiming Tang
- University of North Carolina Chapel Hill Project-China, Guangzhou, China
| | - William C Miller
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jason J Ong
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia; Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia; Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Shui Shan Lee
- S.H. Ho Research Centre for Infectious Diseases, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; Stanley Ho Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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10
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Lettner B, Mason K, Greenwald ZR, Broad J, Mandel E, Feld JJ, Powis J. Rapid hepatitis C virus point-of-care RNA testing and treatment at an integrated supervised consumption service in Toronto, Canada: a prospective, observational cohort study. LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. AMERICAS 2023; 22:100490. [PMID: 37388709 PMCID: PMC10300568 DOI: 10.1016/j.lana.2023.100490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Background Despite high burden of Hepatitis C (HCV) among people who inject drugs, significant barriers to care persist. The aim of this study was to evaluate the provision of rapid, low-barrier point-of-care (POC) HCV RNA testing and linkage to care among clients of a supervised consumption service (SCS) located within a community health centre in Toronto, Canada. Secondary aims included measuring HCV RNA prevalence at baseline, HCV incidence during follow-up and exploring factors associated with HCV RNA positivity and treatment uptake. Methods Participants were enrolled in a prospective, observational cohort from August 13, 2018 to September 30, 2021. Those with positive HCV RNA tests were offered immediate referral to onsite treatment. Those with negative results were offered repeat testing every three months for up to four visits. HCV incidence was estimated as the number of incident HCV infections per 100 person-years at risk, among those HCV RNA negative at baseline who returned for ≥1 follow-up visit. Missing data were reported when present. Findings 128 participants were enrolled with four later removed due to ineligibility. At baseline, 54 of 124 eligible participants (43.5%) tested HCV RNA positive. HCV incidence was 35.1 cases per 100 person-years (95% CI: 18.9-65.3) with a cumulative incidence of 38.3% at 15 months of follow-up. Among participants HCV RNA positive at baseline or follow-up (n = 64), 67.2% (n = 43) were linked to HCV care and treatment was initiated among 67.4% (n = 29/43). Interpretation High HCV RNA prevalence and incidence demonstrate that the SCS serves a high-risk population for HCV. Testing acceptance was high, as was treatment engagement. POC HCV RNA testing positions SCSs as an important point of HCV care access. Funding HCV Micro-Elimination Grant, Gilead Sciences Canada; in-kind support from Cepheid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernadette Lettner
- South Riverdale Community Health Centre, 955 Queen St E, Toronto, ON, M4M 3P3, Canada
| | - Kate Mason
- South Riverdale Community Health Centre, 955 Queen St E, Toronto, ON, M4M 3P3, Canada
| | - Zoë R. Greenwald
- Division of Epidemiology, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College St, Toronto, ON M5T 3M7, Canada
- Centre on Drug Policy Evaluation, MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, St. Michael's Hospital, 30 Bond Street, Toronto, ON M5B 1X1, Canada
| | - Jennifer Broad
- South Riverdale Community Health Centre, 955 Queen St E, Toronto, ON, M4M 3P3, Canada
| | - Erin Mandel
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto General Hospital, 200 Elizabeth St, Toronto, ON, M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Jordan J. Feld
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto General Hospital, 200 Elizabeth St, Toronto, ON, M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Jeff Powis
- Michael Garron Hospital, 825 Coxwell Ave, Toronto, ON, M4C 3E7, Canada
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Pisoni A, Reynaud E, Douine M, Hureau L, Alcocer Cordellat C, Schaub R, Poland D, Monkel R, Lommen J, Yenkoyan K, Vreden S, Nacher M, Tuaillon E. Automated and combined HIV, HBV, HCV, and syphilis testing among illegal gold miners in French Guiana using a standardized dried blood device. Acta Trop 2023; 238:106731. [PMID: 36395882 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2022.106731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Blood spotted onto filter paper can be easily collected outside healthcare facilities and shipped to a central laboratory for serological testing. However, dried blood testing generally requires manual processing for pre-analytical steps. In this study, we used a standardized blood collection device combined with an automated elution system to test illegal gold miners living in French Guiana for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and syphilis. We included 378 participants, 102 females and 266 males, in three illegal gold mining resting sites. Blood collected on the Ser-Col device (Labonovum) was eluted using an automated system (SCAUT Ser-Col automation, Blok System Supply) and an automated analyzer (Alinity i, Abbott). Ser-Col results were compared to both plasma results, considered the gold standard, and to Dried blood Spot (DBS) results, considered the reference sampling method using dried blood. In plasma samples, two participants (0.5%) tested positive for HIV, six (1.5%) tested positive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), eight were weakly positive for anti-HCV antibodies but negative for HCV RNA, and 47 tested positive for treponemal antibodies (12.4%), including 20 females (19.6%) and 27 males (9.8%, p= 0.010179). We observed a full concordance of Ser-Col and DBS results for HIV diagnosis compared to plasma results. Ser-Col and DBS samples tested positive in five HBsAg carriers and negative for one participant with a low HBsAg level in plasma (0.5 IU/mL). All participants tested negative for HCV in Ser-Col and DBS samples, including the eight participants who tested low positive for HCV antibodies and HCV RNA negative in plasma. Among syphilis seropositive participants, 41 (87.2%) and 40 (85.1%) tested positive for treponemal antibodies in Ser-Col and DBS samples, respectively. The Ser-Col method allows automated dried blood testing of HIV, HBV, HCV and syphilis with performances comparable to DBS. Automated approaches to test capillary blood transported on dried blood devices may facilitate large-scale surveys and improve testing of populations living in remote areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amandine Pisoni
- Pathogenesis and Control of Chronic and Emerging Infections, Montpellier University, INSERM, Établissement Français du Sang, Antilles University, Montpellier University Hospital, Montpellier, France
| | - Elisa Reynaud
- Montpellier University Hospital, Montpellier, France
| | - Maylis Douine
- Centre d'Investigation Clinique Antilles-Guyane (Inserm 1424), Cayenne Hospital, Epidemiology of Tropical Parasitoses, Universite de Guyane, EA 3593, Cayenne, French Guiana
| | - Louise Hureau
- Centre d'Investigation Clinique Antilles-Guyane (Inserm 1424), Cayenne Hospital, Epidemiology of Tropical Parasitoses, Universite de Guyane, EA 3593, Cayenne, French Guiana
| | | | - Roxane Schaub
- Centre d'Investigation Clinique Antilles-Guyane (Inserm 1424), Cayenne Hospital, Epidemiology of Tropical Parasitoses, Universite de Guyane, EA 3593, Cayenne, French Guiana
| | | | | | | | - Konstantin Yenkoyan
- Department of Biochemistry, Neuroscience Laboratory, Cobrain Center Yerevan State Medical University named after M. Heratsi, Yerevan, Armenia
| | - Stephen Vreden
- Foundation for Scientific Research of Suriname, Paramaribo, Suriname
| | - Mathieu Nacher
- Centre d'Investigation Clinique Antilles-Guyane (Inserm 1424), Cayenne Hospital, Epidemiology of Tropical Parasitoses, Universite de Guyane, EA 3593, Cayenne, French Guiana
| | - Edouard Tuaillon
- Pathogenesis and Control of Chronic and Emerging Infections, Montpellier University, INSERM, Établissement Français du Sang, Antilles University, Montpellier University Hospital, Montpellier, France.
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12
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Crespo J, Cabezas J, Aguilera A, Berenguer M, Buti M, Forns X, García F, García-Samaniego J, Hernández-Guerra M, Jorquera F, Lazarus JV, Lens S, Martró E, Pineda JA, Prieto M, Rodríguez-Frías F, Rodríguez M, Serra MÁ, Turnes J, Domínguez-Hernández R, Casado MÁ, Calleja JL. Recommendations for the integral diagnosis of chronic viral hepatitis in a single analytical extraction. GASTROENTEROLOGIA Y HEPATOLOGIA 2023; 46:150-162. [PMID: 36257502 DOI: 10.1016/j.gastrohep.2022.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The Spanish Society of Digestive Pathology (SEPD), the Spanish Association for the Study of the Liver (AEEH), the Spanish Society of Infections and Clinical Microbiology (SEIMC) and its Viral Hepatitis Study Group (GEHEP), and with the endorsement of the Alliance for the Elimination of Viral Hepatitis in Spain (AEHVE), have agreed on a document to carry out a comprehensive diagnosis of viral hepatitis (B, C and D), from a single blood sample; that is, a comprehensive diagnosis, in the hospital and/or at the point of care of the patient. We propose an algorithm, so that the positive result in a viral hepatitis serology (B, C and D), as well as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), would trigger the analysis of the rest of the virus, including the viral load when necessary, in the same blood draw. In addition, we make two additional recommendations. First, the need to rule out a previous hepatitis A virus (VHA) infection, to proceed with its vaccination in cases where IgG-type studies against this virus are negative and the vaccine is indicated. Second, the determination of the HIV serology. Finally, in case of a positive result for any of the viruses analyzed, there must be an automated alerts and initiate epidemiological monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Crespo
- Servicio de Gastroenterología y Hepatología, Grupo de Investigación Clínica y Traslacional en Enfermedades Digestivas, Instituto de Investigación Valdecilla (IDIVAL), Hospital Universitario Marqués de Valdecilla, Santander, España.
| | - Joaquín Cabezas
- Servicio de Gastroenterología y Hepatología, Grupo de Investigación Clínica y Traslacional en Enfermedades Digestivas, Instituto de Investigación Valdecilla (IDIVAL), Hospital Universitario Marqués de Valdecilla, Santander, España
| | - Antonio Aguilera
- Servicio de Microbiología, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Santiago de Compostela, Departamento de Microbioloxía y Parasitoloxía, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, España
| | - Marina Berenguer
- Unidad de Hepatología y Trasplante Hepático y CIBEREHD, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe; IIS La Fe y Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, España
| | - María Buti
- Servicio de Hepatología, Hospital Universitario Valle Hebrón y CIBEREHD del Instituto Carlos III, Barcelona, España
| | - Xavier Forns
- Servicio de Hepatología, Hospital Clínic, Universidad de Barcelona, IDIBAPS, CIBEREHD, Barcelona, España
| | - Federico García
- Servicio de Microbiología, Hospital Universitario Clínico San Cecilio, Instituto de Investigación IBS, Ciber de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Granada, España
| | | | - Manuel Hernández-Guerra
- Servicio de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna, Tenerife, España
| | - Francisco Jorquera
- Servicio de Aparato Digestivo, Complejo Asistencial Universitario de León, IBIOMED y CIBEREHD, León, España
| | - Jeffrey V Lazarus
- Instituto de Salud Global de Barcelona (ISGlobal), Hospital Clínic, Universidad de Barcelona, Barcelona, España
| | - Sabela Lens
- Servicio de Hepatología, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, IDIBAPS, CIBEREHD, Universidad de Barcelona, Barcelona, España
| | - Elisa Martró
- Servicio de Microbiología, Laboratori Clínic Metropolitana Nord (LCMN), Hospital Universitario Germans Trias i Pujol, Institut d'Investigació Germans Trias i Pujol (IGTP), Badalona (Barcelona), España, Consorcio de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, España
| | - Juan Antonio Pineda
- Departamento de Medicina, Universidad de Sevilla, Hospital Universitario de Valme, Ciber de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Sevilla, España
| | - Martín Prieto
- Unidad de Hepatología y Trasplante Hepático, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Valencia, CIBEREHD, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, España
| | - Francisco Rodríguez-Frías
- Servicios de Microbiología y Bioquímica, Laboratorios Clínicos Hospital Universitario Vall d'Hebron, CIBEREHD, Instituto de investigación Vall d'Hebron (VHIR), Barcelona, España
| | - Manuel Rodríguez
- Sección de Hepatología, Servicio de Digestivo, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), Universidad de Oviedo, Oviedo, España
| | - Miguel Ángel Serra
- Catedrático Jubilado de Medicina, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, España
| | - Juan Turnes
- Servicio de Digestivo, Hospital Universitario de Pontevedra, Pontevedra, España
| | | | | | - José Luis Calleja
- Servicio de Gastroenterología y Hepatología, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro, Instituto de Investigación Puerta de Hierro Majadahonda (IDIPHIM), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, España
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13
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Moonen CPB, den Heijer CDJ, Dukers-Muijrers NHTM, van Dreumel R, Steins SCJ, Hoebe CJPA. A systematic review of barriers and facilitators for hepatitis B and C screening among migrants in the EU/EEA region. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1118227. [PMID: 36875381 PMCID: PMC9975596 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1118227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Hepatitis B and C are a threat to public health. Screening of high-risk groups, such as migrants from high-endemic areas, enables early identification and treatment initiation. This systematic review identified barriers and facilitators for hepatitis B and C screening among migrants in the European Union/European Economic Area (EU/EEA). Methods Following PRISMA guidelines, databases PubMed, Embase via Ovid, and Cochrane were searched for English articles published between 1 July 2015 and 24 February 2022. Articles were included, not restricted to a specific study design, if they elaborated on HBV or HCV screening in migrant populations from countries outside Western Europe, North America, and Oceania, and residing in EU/EEA countries. Excluded were studies with solely an epidemiological or microbiological focus, including only general populations or non-migrant subgroups, or conducted outside the EU/EEA, without qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods. Data appraisal, extraction, and quality assessment were conducted and assessed by two reviewers. Barriers and facilitators were categorized into seven levels based on multiple theoretical frameworks and included factors related to guidelines, the individual health professional, the migrant and community, interaction, the organization and economics, the political and legal level, and innovations. Results The search strategy yielded 2,115 unique articles of which 68 were included. Major identified barriers and facilitators to the success of screening related to the migrant (knowledge and awareness) and community level (culture, religion, support) and the organizational and economic level (capacity, resources, coordinated structures). Given possible language barriers, language support and migrant sensitivity are indispensable for facilitating interaction. Rapid point-of-care-testing is a promising strategy to lower screening barriers. Discussion The inclusion of multiple study designs provided extensive insight into barriers, strategies to lower these barriers, and facilitators to maximize the success of screening. A great variety of factors were revealed on multiple levels, therefore there is no one-size-fits-all approach for screening, and initiatives should be adopted for the targeted group(s), including tailoring to cultural and religious beliefs. We provide a checklist of facilitators and barriers to inform adapted interventions to allow for optimal screening impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chrissy P B Moonen
- Living Lab Public Health, Department of Sexual Health, Infectious Diseases and Environmental Health, South Limburg Public Health Service, Heerlen, Netherlands.,Department of Social Medicine, Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Casper D J den Heijer
- Living Lab Public Health, Department of Sexual Health, Infectious Diseases and Environmental Health, South Limburg Public Health Service, Heerlen, Netherlands.,Department of Social Medicine, Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Nicole H T M Dukers-Muijrers
- Living Lab Public Health, Department of Sexual Health, Infectious Diseases and Environmental Health, South Limburg Public Health Service, Heerlen, Netherlands.,Department of Health Promotion, Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Ragni van Dreumel
- Living Lab Public Health, Department of Sexual Health, Infectious Diseases and Environmental Health, South Limburg Public Health Service, Heerlen, Netherlands
| | - Sabine C J Steins
- Living Lab Public Health, Department of Sexual Health, Infectious Diseases and Environmental Health, South Limburg Public Health Service, Heerlen, Netherlands
| | - Christian J P A Hoebe
- Living Lab Public Health, Department of Sexual Health, Infectious Diseases and Environmental Health, South Limburg Public Health Service, Heerlen, Netherlands.,Department of Social Medicine, Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands.,Department of Medical Microbiology, Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University Medical Centre (MUMC+), Maastricht, Netherlands
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14
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Fiore V, Rastrelli E, Madeddu G, Ranieri R, De Vito A, Giuliani R, Di Mizio G, Bolcato M, De Matteis G, Ialungo AM, Dell'Isola S, Starnini G, Babudieri S. HCV spread among female incarcerated population and treatment pathways to viral elimination in Italian prison settings: clinical perspectives and medico legal aspects. BMC Infect Dis 2022; 22:601. [PMID: 35799126 PMCID: PMC9264562 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-022-07565-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is more frequent among incarcerated people than in general population. In the DAAs era, the short schedules and the low risk of adverse reactions, increased the number of HCV treatments. However, the most part of literature reports lack of incarcerated women inclusion in studies on field. Our aim is to assess the screening execution, HCV prevalence, and DAAs treatment among incarcerated women. A focused insight on quick vs standard diagnosis and staging approach will be also provided.
Methods Incarcerated women from 4 Italian regions’ penitentiary institutes were included. HCV screening was executed with HCV saliva test (QuickOral Test®) or phlebotomy. Stage of liver fibrosis was evaluated with FIB-4 value or fibroscan®, based on physicians’ decision. Treatment prescription followed national protocols. Results We included 156 women, 89 (57%) were Italian, mean age was 41 ± 10 years, and 28 (17.9%) were people who inject drugs (PWIDs). Overall, the HCV seroprevalence was 20.5%. Being PWID and on opioid substitution therapy (OST) were significantly associated with serological status (p-value < 0.001). Of them, the 75.5% of patients had active infection, the most frequent genotype was 3a (50%). Among them, 4 (16.6%) and 6 (25%) had psychosis or alcohol abuse history. The 62.5%, 25% and 12.5% had low, intermediate, and advanced fibrosis, respectively. Out of the 24 HCV-RNA positive patients, the 75% underwent to DAAs treatment. The sustained virological response (SVR12) was achieved in 88.8% of cases. When evaluating the influence of quick diagnosis and staging methods vs standard phlebotomy and fibroscan® on SVR12, FIB-4 use showed higher performance for retainment in treatment during prison staying (p = 0.015), while the use of quick saliva test had no influence on the outcome (p = 0.22). Conclusion HCV seroprevalence and active infections are very high among incarcerated women. More tailored interventions should be focused on HCV diagnosis and treatment in female prison population. The use of quick staging methods (FIB-4) is useful to increase SVR12 achievement without delays caused by the fibroscan® awaiting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vito Fiore
- Infectious and Tropical Disease Clinic, Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 35/b, 07100, Sassari, Italy.
| | - Elena Rastrelli
- Medicina Protetta-Unit of Infectious Diseases, Belcolle Hospital, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Giordano Madeddu
- Infectious and Tropical Disease Clinic, Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 35/b, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Roberto Ranieri
- Penitentiary Infectious Diseases Unit, A.O. Santi Paolo e Carlo, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea De Vito
- Infectious and Tropical Disease Clinic, Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 35/b, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Ruggero Giuliani
- Penitentiary Infectious Diseases Unit, A.O. Santi Paolo e Carlo, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulio Di Mizio
- Forensic Medicine, Department of Law, Magna Graecia, University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Matteo Bolcato
- Legal Medicine, University of Padua, 35121, Padova, Italy
| | - Giuseppe De Matteis
- Health Protection for Adults and Youth Unit, Penitentiary Institute, Salerno, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Ialungo
- Medicina Protetta-Unit of Infectious Diseases, Belcolle Hospital, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Serena Dell'Isola
- Medicina Protetta-Unit of Infectious Diseases, Belcolle Hospital, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Giulio Starnini
- Medicina Protetta-Unit of Infectious Diseases, Belcolle Hospital, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Sergio Babudieri
- Infectious and Tropical Disease Clinic, Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 35/b, 07100, Sassari, Italy
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15
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Cunningham EB, Wheeler A, Hajarizadeh B, French CE, Roche R, Marshall AD, Fontaine G, Conway A, Valencia BM, Bajis S, Presseau J, Ward JW, Degenhardt L, Dore GJ, Hickman M, Vickerman P, Grebely J. Interventions to enhance testing, linkage to care, and treatment initiation for hepatitis C virus infection: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 7:426-445. [PMID: 35303490 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(21)00471-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the goal set by WHO to eliminate hepatitis C virus (HCV) as a public health threat, uptake of HCV testing and treatment remains low. To achieve this target, evidence-based interventions are needed to address the barriers to care for people with, or at risk of, HCV infection. We aimed to assess the efficacy of interventions to improve HCV antibody testing, HCV RNA testing, linkage to HCV care, and treatment initiation. METHODS In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, Web of Science, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and PsycINFO without language restrictions for reports published between database inception and July 21, 2020, assessing the following primary outcomes: HCV antibody testing; HCV RNA testing; linkage to HCV care; and direct-acting antiviral treatment initiation. We also searched key conference abstracts. We included randomised and non-randomised studies assessing non-pharmaceutical interventions that included a comparator or control group. Studies were excluded if they enrolled only paediatric populations (aged <18 years) or if they conducted the intervention in a different health-care setting to that of the control or comparator. Authors were contacted to clarify study details and to obtain additional population-level data. Data were extracted from the records identified into a pre-piloted and standardised data extraction form and a random-effects meta-analysis was used to pool the effects of the interventions on study outcomes. This study is registered in PROSPERO, CRD42020178035. FINDINGS Of 15 342 unique records identified, 142 were included, which reported on 148 unique studies (47 randomised controlled trials and 101 non-randomised studies). Medical chart reminders, provider education, and point-of-care antibody testing significantly improved at least three study outcomes compared with a comparator or control. Interventions that simplified HCV testing, including dried blood spot testing, point-of-care antibody testing, reflex RNA testing, and opt-out screening, significantly improved testing outcomes compared with a comparator or control. Enhanced patient and provider support through patient education, provider care coordination, and provider education also significantly improved testing outcomes compared with a comparator or control. Integrated care and patient navigation or care coordination significantly improved linkage to care and the uptake of direct-acting antiviral treatment compared with a comparator or control. INTERPRETATION Several interventions to improve HCV care that address several key barriers to HCV care were identified. New models of HCV care must be designed and implemented to address the barriers faced by the population of interest. Further high-quality research, including rigorously designed randomised studies, is still needed in key populations. FUNDING None.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alice Wheeler
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Clare E French
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Rachel Roche
- Blood Safety, Hepatitis, Sexually Transmitted Infections and HIV Division, National Infection Service, Public Health England Colindale, London, UK; National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Blood Borne and Sexually Transmitted Infections at UCL, National Institute for Health Research, London, UK
| | - Alison D Marshall
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Guillaume Fontaine
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Anna Conway
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Sahar Bajis
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Justin Presseau
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - John W Ward
- Coalition for Global Hepatitis Elimination, The Task Force for Global Health, Decatur, GA, USA
| | - Louisa Degenhardt
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Gregory J Dore
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Matthew Hickman
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Peter Vickerman
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Jason Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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16
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Catlett B, Hajarizadeh B, Cunningham E, Wolfson-Stofko B, Wheeler A, Khandaker-Hussain B, Feld JJ, Martró E, Chevaliez S, Pawlotsky JM, Bharat C, Cunningham PH, Dore GJ, Applegate T, Grebely J. Diagnostic accuracy of assays using point-of-care testing or dried blood spot samples for the determination of HCV RNA: a systematic review. J Infect Dis 2022; 226:1005-1021. [PMID: 35150578 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiac049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fingerstick point-of-care and dried-blood-spot (DBS) HCV RNA testing increases testing uptake and linkage to care. This systematic review evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of point-of-care testing and DBS to detect HCV RNA. METHODS Bibliographic databases and conference presentations were searched for eligible studies. Meta-analysis was used to pool estimates. RESULTS Of 359 articles identified, 43 studies were eligible and included. When comparing the Xpert HCV Viral Load Fingerstick assay to venous blood samples (7 studies with 987 samples), the sensitivity and specificity for HCV RNA detection was 99% (95% CI:98%-100%) and 99% (95% CI:96%-100%) and for HCV RNA quantification was 100% (95% CI:93%-100%) and 100% (95% CI:94%-100%). The proportion of invalid results following Xpert HCV Viral Load Fingerstick testing was 6% (95% CI:3%-11%). When comparing DBS to venous blood samples (28 studies with 3988 samples), the sensitivity and specificity for HCV RNA detection was 97% (95% CI:95%-98%) and 100% (95% CI:98%-100%) and for HCV RNA quantification was 98% (95% CI:96%-99%) and 100% (95% CI:95%-100%). CONCLUSION Excellent diagnostic accuracy was observed across assays for detection of HCV RNA from fingerstick and DBS samples. The proportion of invalid results following Xpert HCV Viral Load Fingerstick testing highlights the importance of operator training and quality assurance programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beth Catlett
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,St Vincent's Centre for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
| | | | | | - Brett Wolfson-Stofko
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | | | - Jordan J Feld
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Elisa Martró
- Microbiology Department, Laboratori Clínic Metropolitana Nord, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias I Pujol, Institut d'Investigació Germans Trias I Pujol (IGTP), Badalona (Barcelona), Spain.,Group 27, Biomedical Research Networking Centre in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Stéphane Chevaliez
- French National Reference Centre for viral hepatitis B, C and delta, Department of Virology, Hôpital Henri Mondor, Université Paris-Est, Créteil, France
| | - Jean-Michel Pawlotsky
- French National Reference Centre for viral hepatitis B, C and delta, Department of Virology, Hôpital Henri Mondor, Université Paris-Est, Créteil, France
| | - Chrianna Bharat
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Philip H Cunningham
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,St Vincent's Centre for Applied Medical Research, Sydney, Australia
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17
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Klok S, van Dulm E, Boyd A, Generaal E, Eskander S, Joore IK, van Cleef B, Siedenburg E, Bruisten S, van Duijnhoven Y, Tramper-Stranders G, Prins M. Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infections among undocumented migrants and uninsured legal residents in the Netherlands: A cross-sectional study, 2018-2019. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0258932. [PMID: 34714867 PMCID: PMC8555813 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0258932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Migrants are not routinely screened for hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in the Netherlands. We estimated the prevalence and determined factors associated with HBV, HCV and/or HIV infections among undocumented migrants and uninsured legal residents. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, undocumented migrants and uninsured legal residents were recruited at a non governmental organization (NGO), healthcare facility in the Netherlands and were invited to be tested for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), anti-hepatitis B core antibodies (anti-HBcAb), HCV-RNA, and anti-HIV antibodies or HIV antigen at a local laboratory. RESULTS Of the 1376 patients invited, 784 (57%) participated. Participants originated from Africa (35%), Asia (30%) and North/South America (30%). 451/784 (58%) participants went to the laboratory for testing. Of participants 30% were HBV exposed (anti-HBcAb-positive), with 27% (n = 119/438, 95% CI 23.1% to 31.6%) having resolved HBV infection (HBsAg-negative) and 2.5% (n = 11/438, 95%CI 1.3% to 4.5%, 64% new infection) having chronic HBV infection (HBsAg-positive). Compared to HBV non-exposed, HBV exposed individuals were older (p = 0.034) and more often originated from Africa (p<0.001). Prevalence of chronic HCV infection (HCV-RNA-positive) was 0.7% (n = 3/435, 95%CI 0.1% to 2.0%, all new infections) and HIV infection 1.1% (n = 5/439, 95%CI 0.04% to 2.6%, 40% new infection). CONCLUSION Prevalence of chronic HBV, chronic HCV and HIV infections in our study population is higher compared to the Dutch population, thus emphasizing the importance of case finding for these infections through primary care and public health in this specific group of migrants. Screening uptake could be improved by on-site testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarineke Klok
- NGO health care clinic Kruispost, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eline van Dulm
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service Amsterdam (GGD), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anders Boyd
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service Amsterdam (GGD), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- HIV Monitoring Foundation, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ellen Generaal
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service Amsterdam (GGD), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sally Eskander
- NGO health care clinic Kruispost, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ivo Kim Joore
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service Flevoland, Lelystad, The Netherlands
| | - Brigitte van Cleef
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service Amsterdam (GGD), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Evelien Siedenburg
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service Amsterdam (GGD), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sylvia Bruisten
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service Amsterdam (GGD), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Yvonne van Duijnhoven
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service Amsterdam (GGD), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gerdien Tramper-Stranders
- NGO health care clinic Kruispost, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Pediatrics, Franciscus Gasthuis & Vlietland, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maria Prins
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Public Health Service Amsterdam (GGD), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, Univ. of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Infection and Immunity (AI&II), Amsterdam UMC, Univ. of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Kwon JA, Dore GJ, Hajarizadeh B, Alavi M, Valerio H, Grebely J, Guy R, Gray RT. Australia could miss the WHO hepatitis C virus elimination targets due to declining treatment uptake and ongoing burden of advanced liver disease complications. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0257369. [PMID: 34529711 PMCID: PMC8445464 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Australia was one of the first countries to introduce government-funded unrestricted access to direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy, with 88,790 treated since March 2016. However, treatment uptake is declining which could potentially undermine Australia's progress towards the WHO HCV elimination targets. Using mathematical modelling, we updated estimates for those living with chronic HCV in Australia, new cases of decompensated cirrhosis (DC), hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and liver-related mortality among the HCV-cured and viraemic populations from 2015 to 2030. We considered various DAA treatment scenarios incorporating annual treatment numbers to 2020, and subsequent uptake per year of 6,790 (pessimistic), 8,100 (intermediate), and 11,310 (optimistic). We incorporated the effects of excess alcohol consumption and reduction in progression to DC and HCC among cirrhosis-cured versus viraemic individuals. At the end of 2020, we estimated 117,810 Australians were living with chronic HCV. New cases per year of DC, HCC, and liver-related mortality among the HCV viraemic population decreased rapidly from 2015 (almost eliminated by 2030). In contrast, the growing population size of those cured with advanced liver disease meant DC, HCC, and liver-related mortality declined slowly. The estimated reduction in liver-related mortality from 2015 to 2030 in the combined HCV viraemic and cured population is 25% in the intermediate scenario. With declining HCV treatment uptake and ongoing individual-level risk of advanced liver disease complications, including among cirrhosis-cured individuals, Australia is unlikely to achieve all WHO HCV elimination targets by 2030.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jisoo A. Kwon
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Gregory J. Dore
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Maryam Alavi
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Heather Valerio
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jason Grebely
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rebecca Guy
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Richard T. Gray
- Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Valerio H, Alavi M, Silk D, Treloar C, Martinello M, Milat A, Dunlop A, Holden J, Henderson C, Amin J, Read P, Marks P, Degenhardt L, Hayllar J, Reid D, Gorton C, Lam T, Dore GJ, Grebely J. Progress Towards Elimination of Hepatitis C Infection Among People Who Inject Drugs in Australia: The ETHOS Engage Study. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 73:e69-e78. [PMID: 32421194 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciaa571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evaluating progress towards hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination is critical. This study estimated prevalence of current HCV infection and HCV treatment uptake among people who inject drugs (PWID) in Australia. METHODS The Enhancing Treatment of Hepatitis C in Opioid Substitution Settings Engage is an observational study of PWID attending drug treatment clinics and needle and syringe programs (NSPs). Participants completed a questionnaire including self-reported treatment history and underwent point-of-care HCV RNA testing (Xpert HCV Viral Load Fingerstick; Cepheid). RESULTS Between May 2018 and September 2019, 1443 participants were enrolled (64% injected drugs in the last month, 74% receiving opioid agonist therapy [OAT]). HCV infection status was uninfected (28%), spontaneous clearance (16%), treatment-induced clearance (32%), and current infection (24%). Current HCV was more likely among people who were homeless (adjusted odds ratio, 1.47; 95% confidence interval, 1.00-2.16), incarcerated in the previous year (2.04; 1.38-3.02), and those injecting drugs daily or more (2.26; 1.43-2.42). Among those with previous chronic or current HCV, 66% (n = 520/788) reported HCV treatment. In adjusted analysis, HCV treatment was lower among females (.68; .48-.95), participants who were homeless (.59; .38-.96), and those injecting daily or more (.51; .31-.89). People aged ≥45 years (1.46; 1.06-2.01) and people receiving OAT (2.62; 1.52-4.51) were more likely to report HCV treatment. CONCLUSIONS Unrestricted direct-acting antiviral therapy access in Australia has yielded high treatment uptake among PWID attending drug treatment and NSPs, with a marked decline in HCV prevalence. To achieve elimination, PWID with greater marginalization may require additional support and tailored strategies to enhance treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather Valerio
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Maryam Alavi
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David Silk
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Carla Treloar
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Andrew Milat
- Centre for Epidemiology and Evidence, NSW Health, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Adrian Dunlop
- Centre for Translational Neuroscience and Mental Health, Hunter Medical Research Institute and University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia.,Drug and Alcohol Clinical Services, Hunter New England Local Health District, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jo Holden
- Population Health Strategy and Performance, NSW Health, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Janaki Amin
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Phillip Read
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Kirketon Road Centre, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Philippa Marks
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Louisa Degenhardt
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jeremy Hayllar
- Alcohol and Drug Service, Metro North Mental Health, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - David Reid
- The Orana Centre, Illawarra Shoalhaven LHD, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Carla Gorton
- Cairns Sexual Health Service, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Thao Lam
- Drug Health, Western Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Gregory J Dore
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jason Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Generaal E, Logtenberg van der Grient H, Schatz E, van Santen DK, Boyd A, Woods SK, Baak BLC, Prins M. A Feasibility Study to Increase Chronic Hepatitis C Virus RNA Testing and Linkage to Care among Clients Attending Homeless Services in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11071197. [PMID: 34209440 PMCID: PMC8306529 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11071197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
People who inject drugs (PWID) are disproportionately affected by hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections and are frequently homeless. To improve HCV case finding in these individuals, we examined the feasibility of rapid HCV RNA testing in homeless services in Amsterdam. In 2020, we provided a comprehensive service to homeless facilities, which included workshops on HCV for personnel, a “hepatitis ambassador” at each facility, a rapid, onsite HCV RNA fingerstick test service, and assistance with linkage to care. Risk factors for HCV RNA-positive status were examined using Bayesian logistic regression. Of the 152 participants enrolled, 150 (87% men; median age: 47 years) accepted rapid HCV testing. Seven tested HCV RNA positive (4.7%, 95%CrI = 1.31–8.09; 7/150). Of these, five (71%) were linked to care, of whom four (57%, 4/7) initiated treatment and one (14%, 1/7) delayed treatment due to a drug–drug interaction. Of these four people, two completed treatment (50%), of whom one (25%) achieved sustained virologic response after 12 weeks. HCV RNA-positive individuals were more likely to originate from Eastern Europe (posterior-odds ratio (OR) = 3.59 (95% credible interval (CrI) = 1.27–10.04)) and to inject drugs (ever: posterior-OR = 3.89 (95% CrI = 1.37–11.09); recent: posterior-OR = 3.94 (95% CrI = 1.29–11.71)). We identified HCV RNA-positive individuals and linkage to care was relatively high. Screening in homeless services with rapid testing is feasible and could improve HCV case finding for PWID who do not regularly attend primary care or other harm reduction services for people who use drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Generaal
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, 1018 WT Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (D.K.v.S.); (A.B.); (M.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +31-(0)20-555-5043
| | | | - Eberhard Schatz
- De Regenboog Groep, 1013 GE Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (H.L.v.d.G.); (E.S.)
| | - Daniela K. van Santen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, 1018 WT Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (D.K.v.S.); (A.B.); (M.P.)
- Disease Elimination Programs, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Anders Boyd
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, 1018 WT Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (D.K.v.S.); (A.B.); (M.P.)
- Stichting HIV Monitoring, 1105 BD Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Bert L. C. Baak
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, OLVG Hospital, 1091 AC Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Maria Prins
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Research and Prevention, Public Health Service of Amsterdam, 1018 WT Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (D.K.v.S.); (A.B.); (M.P.)
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Amsterdam UMC, Location AMC, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity (AII), University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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21
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Self-testing for HIV, HBV, and HCV using finger-stick whole-blood multiplex immunochromatographic rapid test: A pilot feasibility study in sub-Saharan Africa. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0249701. [PMID: 33836036 PMCID: PMC8034751 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0249701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The burden of HIV, HBV, and HCV infections remains disproportionately high in sub-Saharan Africa, with high rates of co-infections. Multiplex rapid diagnostic tests for HIV, HBV and HCV serological testing with high analytical performances may improve the “cascade of screening” and quite possibly the linkage-to-care with reduced cost. Based on our previous field experience of HIV self-testing, we herein aimed at evaluating the practicability and acceptability of a prototype finger-stick whole-blood Triplex HIV/HCV/HBsAg self-test as a simultaneous serological screening tool for HIV, HBV, and HCV in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Methods A cross-sectional multicentric study consisting of face-to-face, paper-based, and semi-structured questionnaires with a home-based and facility-based recruitment of untrained adult volunteers at risk of HIV, HBV, and HCV infections recruited from the general public was conducted in 2020 in urban and rural areas in the DRC. The practicability of the Triplex self-test was assessed by 3 substudies on the observation of self-test manipulation including the understanding of the instructions for use (IFU), on the interpretation of Triplex self-test results and on its acceptability. Results A total of 251 volunteers (mean age, 28 years; range, 18–49; 154 males) were included, from urban [160 (63.7%)] and rural [91 (36.3%)] areas. Overall, 242 (96.4%) participants performed the Triplex self-test and succeeded in obtaining a valid test result with an overall usability index of 89.2%. The correct use of the Triplex self-test was higher in urban areas than rural areas (51.2% versus 16.5%; aOR: 6.9). The use of video IFU in addition to paper-based IFU increased the correct manipulation and interpretation of the Triplex self-test. A total of 197 (78.5%) participants correctly interpreted the Triplex self-test results, whereas 54 (21.5%) misinterpreted their results, mainly the positive test results harboring low-intensity band (30/251; 12.0%), and preferentially the HBsAg band (12/44; 27.3%). The rates of acceptability of reuse, distribution of the Triplex self-test to third parties (partner, friend, or family member), linkage to the health care facility for confirmation of results and treatment, and confidence in the self-test results were very high, especially among participants from urban areas. Conclusions This pilot study shows evidence for the first time in sub-Saharan Africa on good practicability and high acceptability of a prototype Triplex HIV/HCV/HBsAg self-test for simultaneous diagnosis of three highly prevalent chronic viral infections, providing the rational basis of using self-test harboring four bands of interest, i.e. the control, HIV, HCV, and HBsAg bands. The relatively frequent misinterpretation of the Triplex self-test points however the necessity to improve the delivery of this prototype Triplex self-test probably in a supervised setting. Finally, these observations lay the foundations for the potential large-scale use of the Triplex self-test in populations living in sub-Saharan Africa at high risk for HIV, HBV, and HCV infections.
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Robaeys G, Bielen R. Management of Hepatitis C Viral Infection in People Who Inject Drugs. HEPATITIS C: CARE AND TREATMENT 2021:191-211. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-67762-6_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2025]
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Fiore V, De Matteis G, Ranieri R, Saderi L, Pontali E, Muredda A, Ialungo AM, Caruso R, Madeddu G, Sotgiu G, Babudieri S. HCV testing and treatment initiation in an Italian prison setting: A step-by-step model to micro-eliminate hepatitis C. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2020; 90:103055. [PMID: 33310637 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2020.103055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 11/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND HCV infection among vulnerable populations is currently a major issue for HCV elimination program. Incarcerated people and people who inject drugs (PWIDs) are key population groups potentially at high risk for HCV infection. Our aim was to evaluate an extended program of screening, staging and treatment in Italian prison settings. METHODS Patients from eight prisons in five different Italian Regions were enrolled. HCV saliva test (QuickOral Test®) was offered. Data on infection awareness and illicit drug use were also collected. Positive patients underwent early HCV RNA evaluation, staging and prescription on DAAs treatment. The definition of PWID was based on self-reported injecting drug use extracted from medical records (injecting drug use during the previous six months). RESULTS A total of 2,376 out of 2,687 individuals (88%) was tested. The median (IQR) age was 42 (32-50) years. PWIDs were 537out of 2,376 (23%). Prevalence of HCV antibodies was 10.4% (248/2,376). PWIDs had a lower awareness of their HCV-Ab positivity than non-PWIDs (p-value <0.001). Furthermore, PWIDs were less likely to be previously treated than non-PWIDs (78% vs 96%, p-value= 0.017). Active infection was found in 41% of patients (101/248). Overall, 61% HCV-positive were PWIDs, with 44% HCV RNA positive. HCV therapy was prescribed to 83% (84/101) of patients with active HCV infection and 67% of these (56/84) were PWIDs. Prescription for HCV treatment in PWIDs accounted for 84% (56/67) (while for non-PWIDs was 82% (28/34) p-value: 0.88. Seventeen patients were referred to a Specialist in other prisons because they were going to be transferred soon to another prison. EOT, as well as SVR12 were achieved in 98% (82/84) treated patients. CONCLUSIONS Among patients, PWIDs had a lower awareness of their HCV-Ab positivity and had previously received less treatments. Saliva test allowed to achieve a more rapid result, stage, and treatment approach. More than 80% of patients underwent treatment, without differences between PWIDs and non-PWIDs. Linkage to care during prison transfer allowed to avoid unplanned interruptions and offered more chances to reach the end of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vito Fiore
- Infectious and Tropical Disease Clinic, Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Giuseppe De Matteis
- Health protection for adults and youth Unit, Penitentiary Institute, Salerno, Italy
| | - Roberto Ranieri
- Penitentiary Infectious Diseases Unit, A.O. Santi Paolo e Carlo, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Saderi
- Clinical Epidemiology and Medical Statistics Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | | | - Alberto Muredda
- Healthcare Area Penitentiary Institute of Alghero, Sassari, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Ialungo
- Medicina Protetta-Unit of Infectious Diseases, Belcolle Hospital, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Rosa Caruso
- Health protection for adults and youth Unit, Penitentiary Institute, Salerno, Italy
| | - Giordano Madeddu
- Infectious and Tropical Disease Clinic, Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Giovanni Sotgiu
- Clinical Epidemiology and Medical Statistics Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Sergio Babudieri
- Infectious and Tropical Disease Clinic, Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy; Healthcare Area Penitentiary Institute of Bancali, Sassari, Italy.
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Avellon A, Ala A, Diaz A, Domingo D, Gonzalez R, Hidalgo L, Kooner P, Loganathan S, Martin D, McPherson S, Munoz-Chimeno M, Ryder S, Slapak G, Ryan P, Valbuena M, Kennedy PT. Clinical performance of Determine HBsAg 2 rapid test for Hepatitis B detection. J Med Virol 2020; 92:3403-3411. [PMID: 32270883 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.25862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is estimated to affect 292 million people worldwide, 90% of them are unaware of their HBV status. The Determine HBsAg 2 (Alere Medical Co, Ltd Chiba Japan [Now Abbott]) is a rapid test that meets European Union (EU) regulatory requirements for Hepatitis B surface antigen 2 (HBsAg) analytical sensitivity, detecting the 0.1 IU/mL World Health Organization (WHO) International HBsAg Standard. This prospective, multicentre study was conducted to establish its clinical performance. 351 evaluable subjects were enrolled, 145 HBsAg-positive. The fingerstick whole blood sensitivity and specificity were 97.2% and 98.5% (15' reading, reference assay cut-off 0.05 IU/mL), sensitivity increasing to 97.9% with the prespecified cut-off 0.13 IU/mL (EU regulations). The venous whole blood, serum and plasma sensitivity was 97.2%, 97.9%, and 98.6%, respectively (15' reading); reaching 99%, 99.5% and 100% specificity. A testing algorithm following up an initial positive fingerstick test result with plasma/serum test demonstrates 100% specificity. The Determine HBsAg 2 test gives 15-minute results with high sensitivity and specificity, making it an ideal tool for point-of-care testing, with the potential to enable large-scale population-wide screening to reach the WHO HBV diagnostic targets. The evaluated test improves the existing methods as most of the reviewed rapid tests do not meet the EU regulatory requirements of sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Avellon
- Hepatitis Unit, National Center of Microbiology, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - Aftab Ala
- Gastrointestinal and Liver services, Royal Surrey County Hospital and University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Antonio Diaz
- Gastroenterology department, Hospital del Sureste, Madrid, Spain
| | - Daniel Domingo
- Gastroenterology department, Hospital Infanta Cristina, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rosario Gonzalez
- Gastroenterology department, Hospital del Sureste, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lorena Hidalgo
- Gastroenterology department, Hospital Infanta Sofia, Madrid, Spain
| | - Paul Kooner
- Gastroenterology department, Hospital Infanta Sofia, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sabarinathan Loganathan
- Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham Children's Hospital, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
| | | | - Stuart McPherson
- Liver Unit, The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and The Institute of Cellular Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle, UK
| | | | - Stephen Ryder
- Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, NIHR Nottingham BRC at the Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Gabrielle Slapak
- Gastrointestinal and Liver services, Barking Havering and Redbridge University NHS Trust, Romford, UK
| | - Pablo Ryan
- Servicio de Medicina Interna, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM), Hospital Universitario Infanta Leonor (HUIL), Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Valbuena
- Gastroenterology department, Hospital del Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - Patrick T Kennedy
- Barts Liver Centre, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Blizard Institute, London, UK
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Calin R, Massari V, Pialoux G, Reydellet N, Plenel E, Chauvin C, Jauffret-Roustide M, Day N, Kreplak G, Maresca AF, Derche N, Louis S, Pol S, Doré V, Rouzioux C, Chauvin P. Acceptability of on-site rapid HIV/HBV/HCV testing and HBV vaccination among three at-risk populations in distinct community-healthcare outreach centres: the ANRS-SHS 154 CUBE study. BMC Infect Dis 2020; 20:851. [PMID: 33198672 PMCID: PMC7670674 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-020-05601-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV, HBV and HCV infections continue to represent major health concerns, especially among key at-risk populations such as men who have sex with men (MSM), people who inject drugs (PWIDs), transgender women (TGW) and sex workers (SW). The objective of the ANRS-CUBE study was to evaluate the acceptability of a healthcare, community-based strategy offering a triple rapid HIV-HBV-HCV testing, and HBV vaccination, targeted at three priority groups (MSM, PWIDs and TGW/SWs), in three community centers, in the Paris area. METHODS This longitudinal multicentric non-randomized study included all adult volunteers attending one of the three specialized community centers in Paris, between July 2014 and December 2015. HIV, HBV and HCV status and acceptability of HBV vaccination were evaluated. RESULTS A total of 3662, MSM, 80 PWIDs and 72 TGW/SW were recruited in the three centers respectively. Acceptability of rapid tests was 98.5% in MSM and 14.9% in TGW/SWs, but could not be estimated in PWIDs since the number of users attending and the number of proposals were not recorded. User acceptability of HBV vaccination was weak, only 17.9% of the eligible MSM (neither vaccinated, nor infected) agreed to receive the first dose, 12.2% two doses, 5.9% had a complete vaccination. User acceptability of HBV vaccination was greater in PWIDs and TGW/SWs, but decreased for the last doses (66.7 and 53.3% respectively received a first dose, 24.4 and 26.7% a second dose and 6.7 and 0% a third dose). Fifty-three participants (49 MSM and 4 PWIDs) were discovered HIV positive, more than half with a recent infection. All but two HIV positive participants were linked to appropriate care in less than one month. CONCLUSIONS Rapid HIV-HCV-HBV screening showed a very high level of acceptability among MSM. Efforts need to be made to improve immediate acceptability for HBV vaccination, especially among MSM, and follow-up doses compliance. Our results show the important role of community centers in reaching targets, often fragile, populations, while also suggesting the need to reinforce on-site human support in terms of testing and vaccination, especially when addressing PWIDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruxandra Calin
- Service de Maladies Infectieuses, Hôpital Tenon, Groupe Hospitalier Est, AP-HP, 4 rue de la Chine, 75970, Paris, Cedex 20, France.
- Inserm, IPLESP, ERES, Institut Pierre-Louis d'épidémiologie et de santé publique, Sorbonne Université, 75012, Paris, France.
| | - Véronique Massari
- Inserm, IPLESP, ERES, Institut Pierre-Louis d'épidémiologie et de santé publique, Sorbonne Université, 75012, Paris, France
| | - Gilles Pialoux
- Service de Maladies Infectieuses, Hôpital Tenon, Groupe Hospitalier Est, AP-HP, 4 rue de la Chine, 75970, Paris, Cedex 20, France
- Sorbonne Université, UPMC Université, Paris 06, France
| | | | - Eve Plenel
- Le Kiosque, Checkpoint-Paris, Groupe SOS, Paris, France
| | - Carole Chauvin
- Le Kiosque, Checkpoint-Paris, Groupe SOS, Paris, France
- Cermes3, Inserm U988, CNRS UMR8211, EHESS, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | | | - Nesrine Day
- Laboratoires Centre Biologique Chemin Vert (CBCV), Paris, France
| | - Georges Kreplak
- Laboratoires Centre Biologique Chemin Vert (CBCV), Paris, France
| | - Anaenza Freire Maresca
- ARCAT, Pasaje Latino, Groupe SOS, Paris, France
- AP-HP, Hôpital Ambroise Pare, Service de Médecine Interne, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
| | | | - Sandra Louis
- CSAPA 110 Les Halles, ARCAT, Groupe SOS, Paris, France
| | - Stanislas Pol
- AP-HP, Hôpital Cochin, Service d'hépatologie, Paris, France
| | - Véronique Doré
- ANRS: Agence Nationale de Recherche sur le sida et les hépatites virales, Paris, France
| | - Christine Rouzioux
- Le Kiosque, Checkpoint-Paris, Groupe SOS, Paris, France
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Faculté de Médecine, Paris, France
| | - Pierre Chauvin
- Inserm, IPLESP, ERES, Institut Pierre-Louis d'épidémiologie et de santé publique, Sorbonne Université, 75012, Paris, France
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Xiao Y, Thompson AJ, Howell J. Point-of-Care Tests for Hepatitis B: An Overview. Cells 2020; 9:cells9102233. [PMID: 33023265 PMCID: PMC7650625 DOI: 10.3390/cells9102233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the heavy disease burden posed by hepatitis B, around 90% of people living with hepatitis B are not diagnosed globally. Many of the affected populations still have limited or no access to essential blood tests for hepatitis B. Compared to conventional blood tests which heavily rely on centralised laboratory facilities, point-of-care testing for hepatitis B has the potential to broaden testing access in low-resource settings and to engage hard-to-reach populations. Few hepatitis B point-of-care tests have been ratified for clinical use by international and regional regulatory bodies, and countries have been slow to adopt point-of-care testing into hepatitis B programs. This review presents currently available point-of-care tests for hepatitis B and their roles in the care cascade, reviewing evidence for testing performance, utility, acceptability, costs and cost-effectiveness when integrated into hepatitis B diagnosis and monitoring programs. We further discuss challenges and future directions in aspects of technology, implementation, and regulation when adopting point-of-care testing in hepatitis B programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinzong Xiao
- Burnet Institute, 3004 Melbourne, VIC, Australia;
- Department of Gastroenterology, St Vincent’s Hospital, 3065 Fitzroy, VIC, Australia;
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Melbourne, 3010 Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Alexander J. Thompson
- Department of Gastroenterology, St Vincent’s Hospital, 3065 Fitzroy, VIC, Australia;
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Melbourne, 3010 Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Jessica Howell
- Burnet Institute, 3004 Melbourne, VIC, Australia;
- Department of Gastroenterology, St Vincent’s Hospital, 3065 Fitzroy, VIC, Australia;
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Melbourne, 3010 Parkville, VIC, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, 3004 Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Correspondence:
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27
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Dore GJ, Valerio H, Grebely J. Creating an environment for equitable access to direct-acting antiviral therapy for people who inject drugs with hepatitis C. Liver Int 2020; 40:2353-2355. [PMID: 33021345 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gregory J Dore
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Jason Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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28
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Guingané AN, Bougouma A, Sombié R, King R, Nagot N, Meda N, Van de Perre P, Tuaillon E. Identifying gaps across the cascade of care for the prevention of HBV mother-to-child transmission in Burkina Faso: Findings from the real world. Liver Int 2020; 40:2367-2376. [PMID: 32633864 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Revised: 01/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) is a challenge for controlling the hepatitis B epidemic. In Sub-Saharan countries, pilot interventions including the screening of pregnant women for HBsAg, implementation of anti-HBV therapy and infant immunization within 24 hours of life are initiated and need to be evaluated. This pilot study aimed to describe the cascade of care for hepatitis B PMTCT in a real life situation, and to identify sociodemographic factors associated with adequate management of pregnant women and infants. METHOD The study was conducted from October 1st, 2014 to February 28th, 2016 in the antenatal clinics (ANCV) of Baskuy district which comprises nine first-level public health centres. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to identify sociodemographic factors associated with the likelihood of retention in the cohort, HBV DNA testing, birth dose delivery and HBsAg testing of the children at 6 months of age; P ˂ .05 was selected as cut off for significance. RESULTS In this prospective cohort study, of 5200 pregnant women consulting for the antenatal visit, 2261 (43.5%) were proposed pre-test counselling and HBsAg screening and 2220 (98.2%) have agreed to screening. Among 1580 (71.2%) women that came back for the post-counselling interview, 75 were positive for HBsAg (4.8%), 73 (97.3% of the women provided HBsAg result) consented to medical consultation with hepatogastroenterologists and 53 (72.6%); performed the HBV DNA testing. Forty-seven out of 60 (78.3%; 65.8-87.9) children born alive were immunized for HBV within 24 hours of life. Retention in care was associated with the level of education of the infant's father, secondary school or higher was associated with a better retention in care of the women (OR: 6.6; P = .03). CONCLUSION Our study shows large gaps in HBV PMTCT. Resources for hepatitis B screening, care and prevention including universal access to the vaccine birth dose should be allocated to reduce infection in HBV exposed infants born in Burkina Faso.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice N Guingané
- Hepatogastroenterology Department, Yalgado Ouedraogo University Hospital Center, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Alain Bougouma
- Hepatogastroenterology Department, Yalgado Ouedraogo University Hospital Center, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Roger Sombié
- Hepatogastroenterology Department, Yalgado Ouedraogo University Hospital Center, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Rachel King
- Pathogenesis and Control of Chronic Infections, INSERM/EFS, University of Montpellier, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Nicolas Nagot
- Pathogenesis and Control of Chronic Infections, INSERM/EFS, University of Montpellier, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | | | - Philippe Van de Perre
- Pathogenesis and Control of Chronic Infections, INSERM/EFS, University of Montpellier, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Edouard Tuaillon
- Pathogenesis and Control of Chronic Infections, INSERM/EFS, University of Montpellier, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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29
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Bartholomew TS, Tookes HE, Serota DP, Behrends CN, Forrest DW, Feaster DJ. Impact of routine opt-out HIV/HCV screening on testing uptake at a syringe services program: An interrupted time series analysis. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2020; 84:102875. [PMID: 32731112 PMCID: PMC8814936 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2020.102875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C (HCV) is the most common infectious disease among people who inject drugs (PWID). Engaging PWID in harm reduction services, such as syringe service programs (SSPs), is critical to reduce HCV and HIV transmission. Additionally, testing for HIV and HCV among PWID is important to improve diagnosis and linkage to care. On March 1, 2018, Florida's only legal SSP implemented bundled opt-out HIV/HCV testing at enrollment. We aimed to examine the differences in HIV/HCV testing uptake before and after the implementation of the opt-out testing policy. METHODS Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess predictors of accepting HIV/HCV tests, controlling for opt-in and opt-out policy. Monthly estimates of the percent of participants accepting an HIV test, HCV test, or both were generated. Interrupted Time Series (ITS) analysis evaluated the immediate policy impact on level of uptake and trend in uptake over time for bundled HIV/HCV testing before and after the opt-out testing policy. RESULTS The total study period was 37 months between December 2016-January 2020 with 512 SSP participants 15 months prior and 547 SSP participants 22 months after implementation of bundled HIV/HCV opt-out testing. Significant predictors of accepting both HIV/HCV tests were cocaine injection (aOR = 2.36), self-reported HIV positive status (aOR = 0.39) and self-reported HCV positive status (aOR = 0.27). Based on the ITS results, there was a significant increase in uptake of HIV/HCV testing by 42.4% (95% CI: 26.2%-58.5%, p < 0.001) immediately after the policy change to opt-out testing. CONCLUSION Bundled opt-out HIV/HCV testing substantially increased the percentage of SSP clients who received HIV and HCV rapid tests at enrollment into the program, and the effect remained stable across the 22 months post opt-out testing policy. Future investigation must assess PWID-level perspective of testing preferences and examine whether this testing approach improves HIV/HCV detection among PWID previously unaware of their status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler S Bartholomew
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Hansel E Tookes
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - David P Serota
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Czarina N Behrends
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - David W Forrest
- Department of Anthropology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Daniel J Feaster
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
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30
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El-Sayed MH, Indolfi G. Hepatitis C Virus Treatment in Children: A Challenge for Hepatitis C Virus Elimination. Semin Liver Dis 2020; 40:213-224. [PMID: 32526785 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1708812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C is a global public health threat. The introduction of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) brings the prospect of curing the 71 million people living with the disease, dramatically changing the landscape of hepatitis C. The World Health Organization developed a roadmap for the elimination and cure of hepatitis C by 2030 with a clear goal with measurable targets. However, there is a lack of a well-defined strategy to tackle the hepatitis C virus (HCV) problem in children and adolescents vis-à-vis the adult population. Hepatitis C in children and adolescents can be addressed as part of a national policy for elimination in the whole population, namely macroelimination, or could be fragmented into a microelimination approach targeting the high-risk population groups. Children born to HCV-infected mothers, adolescents who are injecting drugs, migrants, and those suffering from inherited blood diseases are important target populations. After the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval for the use of DAAs in children aged 3 years and above, evidence from clinical trials and real-world experience was accumulated using brand and generic medicines, with sustained virological response rates exceeding 95%. The evidence created should guide policies on the management of hepatitis C in children and adolescents. There are many challenges in managing HCV in this left-behind marginalized population. The lack of awareness and epidemiological data, consent age, prohibitive prices of medicines, and absence of policies on access to diagnostics, treatment, and linkage to care are among the many barriers to service delivery that should be addressed to achieve the elimination goal by 2030.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manal H El-Sayed
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Clinical Research Center, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Giuseppe Indolfi
- Pediatric and Liver Unit, Meyer Children's University Hospital and Department NEUROFARBA, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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31
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Martinello M, Bajis S, Dore GJ. Progress Toward Hepatitis C Virus Elimination: Therapy and Implementation. Gastroenterol Clin North Am 2020; 49:253-277. [PMID: 32389362 DOI: 10.1016/j.gtc.2020.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The World Health Organization has called for the elimination of hepatitis C virus (HCV) as a public health threat by 2030. Highly effective direct-acting antiviral agents provide the therapeutic tools required for elimination. In the absence of a vaccine, HCV elimination will require enhanced primary prevention and an increase in the proportions of people diagnosed and treated. Given that globally only 20% of people with chronic HCV are diagnosed, and around 5% have initiated HCV treatment, the task ahead is enormous. But, global public health needs optimism, and countries currently on track for HCV elimination provide a pathway forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Martinello
- Viral Hepatitis Clinical Research Program, The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Sahar Bajis
- Viral Hepatitis Clinical Research Program, The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Gregory J Dore
- Viral Hepatitis Clinical Research Program, The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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32
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Broad J, Mason K, Guyton M, Lettner B, Matelski J, Powis J. Peer outreach point-of-care testing as a bridge to hepatitis C care for people who inject drugs in Toronto, Canada. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2020; 80:102755. [PMID: 32416538 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2020.102755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who inject drugs have high rates of hepatitis C (HCV) and yet many remain undiagnosed and untreated. HCV treatment guidelines and elimination strategies recommend task-shifting to expand where, and by whom, HCV testing and care is delivered. METHODS A randomized controlled trial design was used to evaluate if point-of-care (POC) HCV antibody testing by peer outreach workers outside of health and social service spaces would improve engagement in HCV care. People with a lifetime history of injection drug use without prior knowledge of HCV antibody status were randomized to receive HCV outreach plus either POC or referral to community-based HCV program for testing as usual. The study was co-designed by people with lived experience of HCV. RESULTS 920 people were approached to participate over 14 weeks. After refusals, withdrawals and removal of duplicates, there were 380 study participants. Outreach took place primarily in public spaces (66%) such as parks, coffee shops and apartment lobbies. Participants reported very high rates of poverty, housing instability and recent injection drug use. Despite being at high risk for HCV, 61% had no history or knowledge of past HCV testing (n = 230). Of those who received a POC test 77/195 (39%) were positive for HCV antibodies. There was no change in rates of engagement in HCV care among those who received the POC (n = 6; 3%) compared to those who did not (n = 5; 3%). CONCLUSION Peer outreach workers were able to efficiently reach a marginalized group of individuals who had a high HCV antibody prevalence and low rates of prior HCV testing. This improved participants' knowledge of their HCV antibody status, but that knowledge in itself did not lead to any change in participant's subsequent engagement in HCV care. Future work is required to evaluate strategies such as incentives or peer navigators to improve linkage to HCV care after diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Broad
- South Riverdale Community Health Centre, 955 Queen St East, Toronto, ON, M4M 3P3, Canada
| | - Kate Mason
- South Riverdale Community Health Centre, 955 Queen St East, Toronto, ON, M4M 3P3, Canada
| | - Mary Guyton
- Sherbourne Health, 333 Sherbourne St, Toronto, ON M5A 2S5, Canada
| | - Bernadette Lettner
- South Riverdale Community Health Centre, 955 Queen St East, Toronto, ON, M4M 3P3, Canada; Regent Park Community Health Centre, 465 Dundas St East, Toronto, ON M5A 2B2, Canada
| | - John Matelski
- University Health Network, 235 - 200 Elizabeth St, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Jeff Powis
- Michael Garron Hospital, 825 Coxwell Ave, Toronto, ON M4C 3E7, Canada.
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33
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Schillie S, Wester C, Osborne M, Wesolowski L, Ryerson AB. CDC Recommendations for Hepatitis C Screening Among Adults - United States, 2020. MMWR Recomm Rep 2020; 69:1-17. [PMID: 32271723 PMCID: PMC7147910 DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.rr6902a1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 344] [Impact Index Per Article: 68.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major source of morbidity and mortality in the United States. HCV is transmitted primarily through parenteral exposures to infectious blood or body fluids that contain blood, most commonly through injection drug use. No vaccine against hepatitis C exists and no effective pre- or postexposure prophylaxis is available. More than half of persons who become infected with HCV will develop chronic infection. Direct-acting antiviral treatment can result in a virologic cure in most persons with 8-12 weeks of all-oral medication regimens. This report augments (i.e., updates and summarizes) previously published recommendations from CDC regarding testing for HCV infection in the United States (Smith BD, Morgan RL, Beckett GA, et al. Recommendations for the identification of chronic hepatitis C virus infection among persons born during 1945-1965. MMWR Recomm Rec 2012;61[No. RR-4]). CDC is augmenting previous guidance with two new recommendations: 1) hepatitis C screening at least once in a lifetime for all adults aged ≥18 years, except in settings where the prevalence of HCV infection is <0.1% and 2) hepatitis C screening for all pregnant women during each pregnancy, except in settings where the prevalence of HCV infection is <0.1%. The recommendation for HCV testing that remains unchanged is regardless of age or setting prevalence, all persons with risk factors should be tested for hepatitis C, with periodic testing while risk factors persist. Any person who requests hepatitis C testing should receive it, regardless of disclosure of risk, because many persons might be reluctant to disclose stigmatizing risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Schillie
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, CDC
| | - Carolyn Wester
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, CDC
| | - Melissa Osborne
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, CDC
| | - Laura Wesolowski
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, CDC
| | - A. Blythe Ryerson
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB Prevention, CDC
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Tuaillon E, Kania D, Pisoni A, Bollore K, Taieb F, Ontsira Ngoyi EN, Schaub R, Plantier JC, Makinson A, Van de Perre P. Dried Blood Spot Tests for the Diagnosis and Therapeutic Monitoring of HIV and Viral Hepatitis B and C. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:373. [PMID: 32210946 PMCID: PMC7075356 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.00373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Blood collected and dried on a paper card – dried blood spot (DBS) – knows a growing interest as a sampling method that can be performed outside care facilities by capillary puncture, and transported in a simple and safe manner by mail. The benefits of this method for blood collection and transport has recently led the World Health Organization to recommend DBS for HIV and hepatitis B and C diagnosis. The clinical utility of DBS sampling to improve diagnostics and care of HIV and hepatitis B and C infection in hard to reach populations, key populations and people living in low-income settings was highlighted. Literature about usefulness of DBS specimens in the therapeutic cascade of care – screening, confirmation, quantification of nucleic acids, and resistance genotyping -, was reviewed. DBS samples are suitable for testing antibodies, antigens, or nucleic acids using most laboratory methods. Good sensibility and specificity have been reported for infant HIV diagnosis and diagnosis of hepatitis B and C. The performance of HIV RNA testing on DBS to identified virological failure on antiretroviral therapy is also high but not optimal because of the dilution of dried blood in the elution buffer, reducing the analytical sensitivity, and because of the contamination by intracellular HIV DNA. Standardized protocols are needed for inter-laboratory comparisons, and manufacturers should pursue regulatory approval for in vitro diagnostics using DBS specimens. Despite these limitations, DBS sampling is a clinically relevant tool to improve access to infectious disease diagnosis worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edouard Tuaillon
- Pathogenèse et Contrôle des Infections Chroniques, INSERM U1058, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | | | - Amandine Pisoni
- Pathogenèse et Contrôle des Infections Chroniques, INSERM U1058, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Karine Bollore
- Pathogenèse et Contrôle des Infections Chroniques, INSERM U1058, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Fabien Taieb
- Emerging Diseases Epidemiology Unit, Center for Translational Science, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Esther Nina Ontsira Ngoyi
- Pathogenèse et Contrôle des Infections Chroniques, INSERM U1058, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Roxane Schaub
- CIC AG/INSERM 1424, Centre Hospitalier de Cayenne, Cayenne, France
| | | | - Alain Makinson
- INSERM U1175/IRD UMI 233, IRD, CHU de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Philippe Van de Perre
- Pathogenèse et Contrôle des Infections Chroniques, INSERM U1058, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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35
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Sequeira-Aymar E, diLollo X, Osorio-Lopez Y, Gonçalves AQ, Subirà C, Requena-Méndez A. [Recommendations for the screening for infectious diseases, mental health, and female genital mutilation in immigrant patients seen in Primary Care]. Aten Primaria 2020; 52:193-205. [PMID: 31029458 PMCID: PMC7063148 DOI: 10.1016/j.aprim.2019.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Revised: 02/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Immigrant health status may be improved if certain health conditions are identified early through the implementation of a screening program. This document presents the recommendations resulting from the Screening in immigrant population project (CRIBMI) aimed at implementing a screening program for infectious diseases (HIV, HBV, HCV, tuberculosis, strongyloidiasis, schistosomiasis and Chagas disease), as well as female genital mutilation and mental health (MH) in migrant population at Primary Care level. Screening recommendations were based on: coming from an endemic country for strongyloidiasis, schistosomiasis, and Chagas diseases; on a threshold level of prevalence for HIV (> 1%), HBV (> 2%), and HCV (> 2%), and on incidence (> 50 cases/100,000-inhabitants) for active tuberculosis in immigrants with < 5 years in Europe. Exploring the risk of FGM is recommended in women from countries where this practice is prevalent. Evaluation of MH status is recommended for people from areas of conflict and violence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethel Sequeira-Aymar
- CAPSBE Casanova, Grupo transversal de investigación en AP IDIBAPS, grupo COCOOPSI CAMFIC, Barcelona, España.
| | - Ximena diLollo
- Fundació Clínic per la Recerca Biomédica, Barcelona, España; Instituto de Salud Global de Barcelona, Barcelona, España
| | - Yolanda Osorio-Lopez
- ESMES (equipo Salut Mental Sense Sostre) y programa SATMI (Programa d'atenció en Salut Mental per població immigrada), Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, España
| | - Alessandra Queiroga Gonçalves
- Unitat de Suport a la Recerca Terres de l'Ebre, Fundació Institut Universitari per a la recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), Tortosa, Tarragona, España; Unitat Docent de Medicina de Família i Comunitària Tortosa-Terres de L'Ebre, Institut Català de la Salut, Tortosa, Tarragona, España
| | - Carme Subirà
- Servicio de Medicina Tropical, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, España; Instituto de Salud Global de Barcelona, Barcelona, España
| | - Ana Requena-Méndez
- Servicio de Medicina Tropical, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, España; Instituto de Salud Global de Barcelona, Barcelona, España
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Desai S, Tavoschi L, Sullivan AK, Combs L, Raben D, Delpech V, Jakobsen SF, Amato‐Gauci AJ, Croxford S. HIV testing strategies employed in health care settings in the European Union/European Economic Area (EU/EEA): evidence from a systematic review. HIV Med 2020; 21:163-179. [PMID: 31729150 PMCID: PMC7065119 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.12809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Despite the availability of HIV testing guidelines to facilitate prompt diagnosis, late HIV diagnosis remains high across Europe. The study synthesizes recent evidence on HIV testing strategies adopted in health care settings in the European Union/European Economic Area (EU/EEA). METHODS Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed and systematic searches were run in five databases (2010-2017) to identify studies describing HIV testing interventions in health care settings in the EU/EEA. The grey literature was searched for unpublished studies (2014-2017). Two reviewers independently performed study selection, data extraction and critical appraisal. RESULTS One hundred and thirty intervention and/or feasibility studies on HIV testing in health care settings were identified. Interventions included testing provision (n = 94), campaigns (n = 14) and education and training for staff and patients (n = 20). HIV test coverage achieved through testing provision varied: 2.9-94% in primary care compared to 3.9-66% in emergency departments. HIV test positivity was lower in emergency departments (0-1.3%) and antenatal services (0-0.05%) than in other hospital departments (e.g. inpatients: 0-5.3%). Indicator condition testing programmes increased HIV test coverage from 3.9-72% before to 12-85% after their implementation, with most studies reporting a 10-20% increase. There were 51 feasibility and/or acceptability studies that demonstrated that HIV testing interventions were generally acceptable to patients and providers in health care settings (e.g. general practitioner testing acceptable: 77-93%). CONCLUSIONS This review has identified several strategies that could be adopted to achieve high HIV testing coverage across a variety of health care settings and populations in the EU/EEA. Very few studies compared the intervention under investigation to a baseline, but, where this was assessed, data suggested increases in testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Desai
- Centre for Infectious Disease Surveillance and ControlPublic Health EnglandLondonUK
| | - L Tavoschi
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and ControlSolnaSweden
- University of PisaPisaItaly
| | - AK Sullivan
- Directorate of HIV and Sexual HealthChelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
| | - L Combs
- CHIPRigshospitalet ‐ University of CopenhagenCopenhagen ØDenmark
| | - D Raben
- CHIPRigshospitalet ‐ University of CopenhagenCopenhagen ØDenmark
| | - V Delpech
- Centre for Infectious Disease Surveillance and ControlPublic Health EnglandLondonUK
| | - SF Jakobsen
- CHIPRigshospitalet ‐ University of CopenhagenCopenhagen ØDenmark
| | - AJ Amato‐Gauci
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and ControlSolnaSweden
| | - S Croxford
- Centre for Infectious Disease Surveillance and ControlPublic Health EnglandLondonUK
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Mason LMK, Veldhuijzen IK, Duffell E, van Ahee A, Bunge EM, Amato‐Gauci AJ, Tavoschi L. Hepatitis B and C testing strategies in healthcare and community settings in the EU/EEA: A systematic review. J Viral Hepat 2019; 26:1431-1453. [PMID: 31332919 PMCID: PMC6899601 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Revised: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
An estimated 9 million individuals are chronically infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) across the European Union/European Economic Area (EU/EEA), many of which are yet to be diagnosed. We performed a systematic review to identify interventions effective at improving testing offer and uptake in the EU/EEA. Original research articles published between 1 January 2008 and 1 September 2017 were retrieved from PubMed and EMBASE. Search strings combined terms for HBV/HCV, intervention, testing and geographic terms (EU/EEA). Out of 8331 records retrieved, 93 studies were selected. Included studies reported on testing initiatives in primary health care (9), hospital (12), other healthcare settings (31) and community settings (41). Testing initiatives targeted population groups such as migrants, drug users, prisoners, pregnant women and the general population. Testing targeted to populations at higher risk yielded high coverage rates in many settings. Implementation of novel testing approaches, including dried blood spot (DBS) testing, was associated with increased coverage in several settings including drug services, pharmacies and STI clinics. Community-based testing services were effective in reaching populations at higher risk for infection, vulnerable and hard-to-reach populations. In conclusion, our review identified several successful testing approaches implemented in healthcare and community settings, including testing approaches targeting groups at higher risk, community-based testing services and DBS testing. Combining a diverse set of testing opportunities within national testing strategies may lead to higher impact both in terms of testing coverage and in terms of reduction, on the undiagnosed fraction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Irene K. Veldhuijzen
- The Netherlands National Institute for Public Health and the EnvironmentBilthovenThe Netherlands
| | - Erika Duffell
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and ControlStockholmSweden
| | - Ayla van Ahee
- Pallas Health Research and Consultancy B.V.RotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Eveline M. Bunge
- Pallas Health Research and Consultancy B.V.RotterdamThe Netherlands
| | | | - Lara Tavoschi
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and ControlStockholmSweden
- Present address:
University of PisaPisaItaly
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Litwin AH, Drolet M, Nwankwo C, Torrens M, Kastelic A, Walcher S, Somaini L, Mulvihill E, Ertl J, Grebely J. Perceived barriers related to testing, management and treatment of HCV infection among physicians prescribing opioid agonist therapy: The C-SCOPE Study. J Viral Hepat 2019; 26:1094-1104. [PMID: 31074167 PMCID: PMC6771477 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2018] [Revised: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this analysis was to evaluate perceived barriers related to HCV testing, management and treatment among physicians practicing in clinics offering opioid agonist treatment (OAT). C-SCOPE was a study consisting of a self-administered survey among physicians practicing at clinics providing OAT in Australia, Canada, Europe and the United States between April and May 2017. A 5-point Likert scale (1 = not a barrier, 3 = moderate barrier, 5 = extreme barrier) was used to measure responses to perceived barriers for HCV testing, evaluation and treatment across the domains of the health system, clinic and patient. Among the 203 physicians enrolled (40% USA, 45% Europe, 14% Australia/Canada), 21% were addiction medicine specialists, 29% psychiatrists and 69% were metro/urban. OAT physicians in this study reported poor access to on-site venepuncture (35%), point-of-care HCV testing (16%), and noninvasive liver disease assessment (25%). Only 30% of OAT physicians reported personally treating HCV infection. Major perceived health system barriers to HCV management included the lack of funding for noninvasive liver disease testing, long wait times to see an HCV specialist, lack of funding for new HCV therapies, and reimbursement restrictions based on drug/alcohol use. Major perceived clinic barriers included the lack of peer support programmes and/or HCV case managers to facilitate linkage to care, the need to refer people off-site for noninvasive liver disease staging, the lack of support for on-site phlebotomy and the lack of on-site delivery of HCV therapy. This study highlights several important modifiable barriers to enhance HCV testing, evaluation and treatment among PWID attending OAT clinics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alain H. Litwin
- Department of MedicineUniversity of South Carolina School of Medicine ‐ Greenville and Prisma HealthGreenvilleSouth Carolina,Clemson University School of Health ResearchClemsonSouth Carolina
| | | | | | - Martha Torrens
- Department of PsychiatryInstitut de Neuropsiquiatria i AddiccionsHospital del Mar BarcelonaIMIM (Institut Hospital del Mar d'Investigacions Mediques)Universitat Autònoma de BarcelonaBarcelonaSpain
| | - Andrej Kastelic
- National Centre for the Treatment of Drug Addiction in LjubljanaLjubljanaSlovenia
| | | | - Lorenzo Somaini
- Addiction Treatment Centre ‐ Ser.D ASL BI ‐ Local Health UnitBiellaItaly
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Elimination of hepatitis C virus infection among people who use drugs: Ensuring equitable access to prevention, treatment, and care for all. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2019; 72:1-10. [PMID: 31345644 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2019.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Revised: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
There have been major strides towards the World Health Organization goal to eliminate hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection as a global public health threat. The availability of simple, well-tolerated direct-acting antiviral therapies for HCV infection that can achieve a cure in >95% of people has provided an important tool to help achieve the global elimination targets. Encouragingly, therapy is highly effective among people receiving opioid agonist therapy and people who have recently injected drugs. Moving forward, major challenges include ensuring that new infections are prevented from occurring and that people who are living with HCV are tested, linked to care, treated, receive appropriate follow-up, and have equitable access to care. This editorial highlights key themes and articles in a special issue focusing on the elimination of HCV among people who inject drugs. An overarching consideration flowing from this work is how to ensure equitable access to HCV treatment and care for all. This special issue maps the field in relation to: HCV prevention; the cascade of HCV care; strategies to enhance testing, linkage to care, and treatment uptake; and HCV treatment and reinfection. In addition, papers draw attention to the 'risk environments' and socio-ecological determinants of HCV acquisition, barriers to HCV care, the importance of messaging around the side-effects of new direct-acting antiviral therapies, the positive transformative potential of treatment and cure, and the key role of community-based drug user organizations in the HCV response. While this special issue highlights some successful efforts towards HCV elimination among people who inject drugs, it also highlights the relative lack of attention to settings in which resources enabling elimination are scarce, and where elimination hopes and potentials are less clear, such as in many low and middle income countries. Strengthening capacity in areas of the world where resources are more limited will be a critical step towards ensuring equity for all so that global HCV elimination among PWID can be achieved.
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Harrison GI, Murray K, Gore R, Lee P, Sreedharan A, Richardson P, Hughes AJ, Wiselka M, Gelson W, Unitt E, Ratcliff K, Orton A, Trinder K, Simpson C, Ryder SD, Oelbaum S, Foster GR, Christian A, Smith S, Thomson BJ, Reynolds R, Harris M, Hickman M, Irving WL. The Hepatitis C Awareness Through to Treatment (HepCATT) study: improving the cascade of care for hepatitis C virus-infected people who inject drugs in England. Addiction 2019; 114:1113-1122. [PMID: 30694582 DOI: 10.1111/add.14569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Revised: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Previous studies have shown low rates of diagnosis and treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in people who inject drugs (PWID). Our aims were to test the effect of a complex intervention [Hepatitis C Awareness Through to Treatment (HepCATT)] in drug and alcohol clinics-primarily, on engagement of HCV-positive PWID with therapy and, secondarily, on testing for HCV, referral to hepatology services and start of HCV treatment. DESIGN AND SETTING A non-randomized pilot study in three specialist addiction clinics in England comparing an intervention year (starting between September 2015 and February 2016) with a baseline year (2014), together with three control clinics. PARTICIPANTS Analysis included all attendees at the intervention and control specialist addiction clinics identified as PWID. INTERVENTION The intervention comprised the placement of a half-time facilitator in each clinic for 12 months with the brief to increase diagnosis of HCV infection within clients at those services and the engagement of diagnosed individuals with an appropriate care pathway. The facilitator undertook various activities, which could include training of key workers, direct interaction with clients, streamlining and support for hepatology appointments and introduction of dried blood-spot testing. MEASUREMENTS For each clinic and period, we obtained the total number of clients and, as relevant, their status as PWID, tested for HCV, known HCV-positive, engaged with HCV therapy or treated. FINDINGS Compared with baseline, there was strong evidence that engagement with HCV therapy in the intervention year increased (P < 0.001) more in the HepCATT centres than controls, up + 31 percentage points [95% confidence interval (CI) = 19-43] versus -12 (CI = -31 to + 6) and odds ratio (OR) = 9.99 (CI = 4.42-22.6) versus 0.35 (CI = 0.08-1.56). HepCATT centres also had greater increases in HCV testing (OR = 3.06 versus 0.78, P < 0.001), referral to hepatology (OR = 9.60 versus 0.56, P < 0.001) and treatment initiation (OR = 9.5 versus 0.74, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Introducing a half-time facilitator into drug and alcohol clinics in England increased engagement of HCV-positive people who inject drugs with hepatitis C virus care pathways, with increased uptake also of testing, referral to hepatology and initiation of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham I Harrison
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Karen Murray
- United Lincolnshire Hospitals Lincoln County Hospital, Lincoln, UK
| | - Roxanne Gore
- Royal Liverpool and Broadgreen University Hospitals NHS Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | | | | | - Paul Richardson
- Royal Liverpool and Broadgreen University Hospitals NHS Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Martin Wiselka
- University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, Leicester, UK
| | - Will Gelson
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK
| | - Esther Unitt
- University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Rosy Reynolds
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Magdalena Harris
- Department of Social and Environmental Health Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Matthew Hickman
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - William L Irving
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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41
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Assoumou L, Thormann F, Soulié C, Caby F, Dudoit Y, Marcelin AG, Goudot P, Blanc C, Coriat P, Katlama C, Costagliola D, Pourcher V. Routine screening for HIV, hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus in individuals undergoing oral and maxillofacial surgery. HIV Med 2019; 20:353-358. [PMID: 30924598 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.12732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Given the effectiveness of treatment of HIV, hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections, there are considerable benefits associated with determining HIV/HBV/HCV status. We evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of systematic screening and subsequent care in an oral and maxillofacial surgery department. METHODS The anaesthesiologists proposed screening for HIV, HBV and HCV to all individuals of unknown infection status undergoing surgery between 19 April 2016 and 19 April 2017. The endpoints were the rates of test offer, acceptance/refusal and new diagnoses. Seropositive individuals were referred to infectious disease specialists. Associations between age, sex or surgery type and test offer (eligible individuals) or acceptance/refusal (those offered testing) were investigated. RESULTS Of the 1407 individuals attending the department, 1322 were eligible for inclusion in the study. Testing was proposed to 899 individuals [68%; 95% confidence interval (CI) 65-71%], 831 of whom accepted the offer (92.4%; 95% CI 90.5-94.1%). Results were obtained for 787 individuals (41 samples were uncollected and three were invalid). Age was the only factor associated with test offer in multivariable analysis [odds ratio (OR) 0.90; 95% CI 0.84-0.97, per additional 10 years], and no factor was associated with acceptance. Of the five, three and eight individuals testing positive for HIV, HBV and HCV, four, two and one patient, respectively, reported prior knowledge of seropositivity. The new diagnosis rate was 0.13% (95% CI 0-0.7%) for HIV and HBV, and 0.89% (95% CI 0.36-1.82%) for HCV [three positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests]. All individuals newly diagnosed with HIV or HCV infection received specific antiviral treatment. CONCLUSIONS Rates of screening offer and acceptance were high. Substantial screening resources are required to decrease the impact of the hidden epidemics of HIV, HBV and HCV infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Assoumou
- Institut Pierre Louis d'épidémiologie et de Santé Publique (iPLESP), INSERM, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - F Thormann
- Département d'anesthésie-réanimation, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - C Soulié
- Laboratoire de virologie, Institut Pierre Louis d'Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique (iPLESP), INSERM, Sorbonne Université, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - F Caby
- Institut Pierre Louis d'épidémiologie et de Santé Publique (iPLESP), INSERM, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France.,Service de Maladies Infectieuses, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Y Dudoit
- Service de Maladies Infectieuses, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - A-G Marcelin
- Laboratoire de virologie, Institut Pierre Louis d'Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique (iPLESP), INSERM, Sorbonne Université, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - P Goudot
- Service de Chirurgie orale et Maxillo-faciale, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - C Blanc
- Service de Maladies Infectieuses, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - P Coriat
- Département d'anesthésie-réanimation, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - C Katlama
- Institut Pierre Louis d'épidémiologie et de Santé Publique (iPLESP), INSERM, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France.,Service de Maladies Infectieuses, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - D Costagliola
- Institut Pierre Louis d'épidémiologie et de Santé Publique (iPLESP), INSERM, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - V Pourcher
- Service de Maladies Infectieuses, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris, France.,HIV Pathogenesis and Immune Aging Team, Immunity and Infectious Diseases Research Center, INSERM, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
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42
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Lombardi A, Mondelli MU. Hepatitis C: Is eradication possible? Liver Int 2019; 39:416-426. [PMID: 30472772 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2018] [Revised: 11/06/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C has a relevant global impact in terms of morbidity, mortality and economic costs, with more than 70 million people infected worldwide. In the resolution, "Transforming our world: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development" was included as a focus area in the health-related goal with world leaders pledging to "combat" it by 2030. In response, WHO drafted the Global Viral Hepatitis Strategy carrying the ambitious targets to reduce the number of deaths by two-thirds and to increase treatment rates up to 80%. Despite the availability of highly effective therapeutic regimens based on direct-acting antivirals many barriers to HCV eradication still remain. They are related to awareness of the infection, linkage to care, availability of the therapeutic drug regimens and reinfection. Overall, if an effective prophylactic vaccine will not be available, HCV eradication appears difficult to achieve in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Lombardi
- Division of Infectious Diseases II and Immunology, Department of Medical Sciences and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Mario U Mondelli
- Division of Infectious Diseases II and Immunology, Department of Medical Sciences and Infectious Diseases, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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Day E, Hellard M, Treloar C, Bruneau J, Martin NK, Øvrehus A, Dalgard O, Lloyd A, Dillon J, Hickman M, Byrne J, Litwin A, Maticic M, Bruggmann P, Midgard H, Norton B, Trooskin S, Lazarus JV, Grebely J. Hepatitis C elimination among people who inject drugs: Challenges and recommendations for action within a health systems framework. Liver Int 2019; 39:20-30. [PMID: 30157316 PMCID: PMC6868526 DOI: 10.1111/liv.13949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2018] [Revised: 08/22/2018] [Accepted: 08/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The burden of hepatitis C infection is considerable among people who inject drugs (PWID), with an estimated prevalence of 39%, representing an estimated 6.1 million people who have recently injected drugs living with hepatitis C infection. As such, PWID are a priority population for enhancing prevention, testing, linkage to care, treatment and follow-up care in order to meet World Health Organization (WHO) hepatitis C elimination goals by 2030. There are many barriers to enhancing hepatitis C prevention and care among PWID including poor global coverage of harm reduction services, restrictive drug policies and criminalization of drug use, poor access to health services, low hepatitis C testing, linkage to care and treatment, restrictions for accessing DAA therapy, and the lack of national strategies and government investment to support WHO elimination goals. On 5 September 2017, the International Network of Hepatitis in Substance Users (INHSU) held a roundtable panel of international experts to discuss remaining challenges and future priorities for action from a health systems perspective. The WHO health systems framework comprises six core components: service delivery, health workforce, health information systems, medical procurement, health systems financing, and leadership and governance. Communication has been proposed as a seventh key element which promotes the central role of affected community engagement. This review paper presents recommended strategies for eliminating hepatitis C as a major public health threat among PWID and outlines future priorities for action within a health systems framework.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Day
- Australasian Society for HIV, Viral Hepatitis, and Sexual
Health Medicine, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Margaret Hellard
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne,
Victoria, Australia
| | - Carla Treloar
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney,
New South Wales, Australia
| | - Julie Bruneau
- CHUM Research Centre (CRCHUM), Centre Hospitalier de
l’Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Natasha K Martin
- Division of Global Public Health, University of California,
San Diego, California, United States
| | - Anne Øvrehus
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Odense University
Hospital, Denmark
| | - Olav Dalgard
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Akershus University
Hospital, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Andrew Lloyd
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales,
Australia
| | - John Dillon
- Division of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, School of
Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Matt Hickman
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School,
University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Jude Byrne
- Australian Injecting & Illicit Drug Users League,
Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Alain Litwin
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Albert Einstein
College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, New York, United States
| | - Mojca Maticic
- Clinic for Infectious Diseases and Febrile Illnesses,
University Medical Centre Ljubljana, and Faculty of Medicine, University of
Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | | | - Havard Midgard
- Department of Gastroenterology, Oslo University Hospital,
Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Brianna Norton
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Albert Einstein
College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, New York, United States
| | - Stacey Trooskin
- Philadelphia FIGHT, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United
States
| | - Jeffrey V Lazarus
- Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal),
Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jason Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales,
Australia
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Bajis S, Maher L, Treloar C, Hajarizadeh B, Lamoury FMJ, Mowat Y, Schulz M, Marshall AD, Cunningham EB, Cock V, Ezard N, Gorton C, Hayllar J, Smith J, Whelan M, Martinello M, Applegate TL, Dore GJ, Grebely J. Acceptability and preferences of point-of-care finger-stick whole-blood and venepuncture hepatitis C virus testing among people who inject drugs in Australia. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2018; 61:23-30. [PMID: 30388566 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2018.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2017] [Revised: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 08/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uptake of hepatitis C virus (HCV) testing remains inadequate globally. Simplified point-of-care tests should enhance HCV diagnosis and elimination. We aimed to assess the acceptability of finger-stick and venepuncture HCV RNA testing among people who inject drugs (PWID). METHODS Participants were enrolled in an observational cohort study with recruitment at 13 sites between June 2016 and February 2018. Capillary whole-blood collected by finger-stick and plasma collected by venepuncture were performed for Xpert® HCV viral load testing. Participants completed a questionnaire on acceptability of, and preferences for, blood collection methods. RESULTS Among 565 participants (mean age, 44 years; 69% male), 64% reported injecting drugs in the last month, and 63% were receiving opioid substitution treatment. Eighty three percent reported that finger-stick testing was very acceptable. Overall, 65% of participants preferred finger-stick over venepuncture testing, with 61% of these preferring to receive results in 60 min. The most common reason for preferring finger-stick over venepuncture testing was it was quick (62%) followed by venous access difficulties (21%). The main reasons for preferring venepuncture over finger-stick testing were that it was quick (61%) and accurate (29%). Females were more likely to prefer finger-stick testing than males (adjusted OR 1.96; 95% CI 1.30, 2.99; p = 0.002). Among people with recent (previous month) injecting drug use, Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people were less likely than non-Aboriginal people to prefer finger-stick testing (adjusted OR 0.57; 95% CI 0.34, 0.9; p = 0.033). CONCLUSIONS Finger-stick whole-blood collection is acceptable to people who inject drugs, with males and Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people with recent injecting drug use less likely to prefer finger-stick testing. Further research is needed to evaluate interventions integrating simplified point-of-care HCV testing to engage people in care in a single-visit, thereby facilitating HCV treatment scale-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Bajis
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Lisa Maher
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; The Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Carla Treloar
- Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | | | - Yasmin Mowat
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Marcel Schulz
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Alison D Marshall
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; Centre for Social Research in Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Evan B Cunningham
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Victoria Cock
- Drug and Alcohol Services of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Nadine Ezard
- Alcohol and Drug Service, St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Carla Gorton
- Cairns Sexual Health Service, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jeremy Hayllar
- Alcohol and Drug Service, Metro North Mental Health, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Julie Smith
- Matthew Talbot Hostel, St Vincent de Paul Society NSW Support Services, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michelle Whelan
- Campbelltown Drug Health Services, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Tanya L Applegate
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Gregory J Dore
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jason Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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45
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Self-reported patient history to assess hepatitis B virus serological status during a large screening campaign. Epidemiol Infect 2018; 147:e16. [PMID: 30264683 PMCID: PMC6518477 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268818002650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
When assessing hepatitis B virus (HBV) status in clinical settings, it is unclear whether self-reports on vaccination history and previous HBV-test results have any diagnostic capacity. Of 3997 participants in a multi-centre HBV-screening study in Paris, France, 1090 were asked questions on their last HBV-test result and vaccination history. Discordance between self-reported history compared with infection status (determined by serology) was calculated for participants claiming ‘negative’, ‘effective vaccine’, ‘past infection’, or ‘chronic infection’ HBV-status. Serological testing revealed that 320 (29.4%) were non-immunised, 576 (52.8%) were vaccinated, 173 (15.9%) had resolved the infection and 21 (1.9%) were hepatitis B surface antigen positive. In total 208/426 (48.8%) participants with a self-reported history of ‘negative’ infection had a discordant serological result, in whom 128 (61.5%) were vaccinated and 74 (35.6%) had resolved infections. A total of 153/599 (25.5%) participants self-reporting ‘effective vaccine’ had a discordant serological result, in whom 100 (65.4%) were non-immunised and 50 (32.7%) were resolved infections. Discordance for declaring ‘past’ or ‘chronic infection’ occurred in 9/55 (16.4%) and 3/10 (30.0%) individuals, respectively. In conclusion, self-reported HBV-status based on participant history is partially inadequate for determining serological HBV-status, especially between negative/vaccinated individuals. More adapted patient education about HBV-status might be helpful for certain key populations.
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46
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Greenaway C, Makarenko I, Chakra CNA, Alabdulkarim B, Christensen R, Palayew A, Tran A, Staub L, Pareek M, Meerpohl JJ, Noori T, Veldhuijzen I, Pottie K, Castelli F, Morton RL. The Effectiveness and Cost-Effectiveness of Hepatitis C Screening for Migrants in the EU/EEA: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:E2013. [PMID: 30223539 PMCID: PMC6164358 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15092013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2018] [Revised: 08/24/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis C (HCV) is a public health priority in the European Union/European Economic Area (EU/EEA) and is a leading cause of chronic liver disease and liver cancer. Migrants account for a disproportionate number of HCV cases in the EU/EEA (mean 14% of cases and >50% of cases in some countries). We conducted two systematic reviews (SR) to estimate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of HCV screening for migrants living in the EU/EEA. We found that screening tests for HCV are highly sensitive and specific. Clinical trials report direct acting antiviral (DAA) therapies are well-tolerated in a wide range of populations and cure almost all cases (>95%) and lead to an 85% lower risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma and an 80% lower risk of all-cause mortality. At 2015 costs, DAA based regimens were only moderately cost-effective and as a result less than 30% of people with HCV had been screened and less 5% of all HCV cases had been treated in the EU/EEA in 2015. Migrants face additional barriers in linkage to care and treatment due to several patient, practitioner, and health system barriers. Although decreasing HCV costs have made treatment more accessible in the EU/EEA, HCV elimination will only be possible in the region if health systems include and treat migrants for HCV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Greenaway
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2 Canada.
- Centre for Clinical Epidemiology of the Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2.
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1A2, Canada.
| | - Iuliia Makarenko
- Centre for Clinical Epidemiology of the Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2.
| | - Claire Nour Abou Chakra
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5NG, Canada.
| | - Balqis Alabdulkarim
- Centre for Clinical Epidemiology of the Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2.
| | - Robin Christensen
- Musculoskeletal Statistics Unit, The Parker Institute, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital & Department of Rheumatology, Odense University Hospital, DK2000 Odense, Denmark.
| | - Adam Palayew
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1A2, Canada.
| | - Anh Tran
- NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney 1450, Australia.
| | - Lukas Staub
- NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney 1450, Australia.
| | - Manish Pareek
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK.
| | - Joerg J Meerpohl
- Institute for Evidence in Medicine (for Cochrane Germany Foundation), Medical Center, University of Freiburg, 79110 Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Teymur Noori
- European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, 169 73 Solna, Sweden.
| | - Irene Veldhuijzen
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), 3720 BA Bilthoven, The Netherlands.
| | - Kevin Pottie
- C.T. Lamont Primary Health Care Research Centre, Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1N 5C8, Canada.
- Centre for Global Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 5C8, Canada.
| | - Francesco Castelli
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Brescia, 255123 Brescia, Italy.
| | - Rachael L Morton
- NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney 1450, Australia.
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47
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Greenaway C, Makarenko I, Tanveer F, Janjua NZ. Addressing hepatitis C in the foreign-born population: A key to hepatitis C virus elimination in Canada. CANADIAN LIVER JOURNAL 2018; 1:34-50. [PMID: 35990716 PMCID: PMC9202799 DOI: 10.3138/canlivj.1.2.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/12/2018] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the leading cause of death from infectious disease in Canada. Immigrants are an important group who are at increased risk for HCV; they account for a disproportionate number of all HCV cases in Canada (~30%) and have approximately a twofold higher prevalence of HCV (~2%) than those born in Canada. HCV-infected immigrants are more likely to develop cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma and are more likely to have a liver-related death during a hospitalization than HCV-infected non-immigrants. Several factors, including lack of routine HCV screening programs in Canada for immigrants before or after arrival, lack of awareness on the part of health practitioners that immigrants are at increased risk of HCV and could benefit from screening, and several patient- and health system-level barriers that affect access to health care and treatment likely contribute to delayed diagnosis and treatment uptake. HCV screening and engagement in care among immigrants can be improved through reminders in electronic medical records that prompt practitioners to screen for HCV during clinical visits and implementation of decentralized community-based screening strategies that address cultural and language barriers. In conclusion, early screening and linkage to care for immigrants from countries with an intermediate or high prevalence of HCV would not only improve the health of this population but will be key to achieving HCV elimination in Canada. This article describes the unique barriers encountered by the foreign-born population in accessing HCV care and approaches to overcoming these barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Greenaway
- Centre for Clinical Epidemiology, Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Iuliia Makarenko
- Centre for Clinical Epidemiology, Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Fozia Tanveer
- CATIE (Canada’s source for HIV and hepatitis C information), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Naveed Z Janjua
- Clinical Preventative Services, British Columbia Centers for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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48
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Clement ME, Collins LF, Wilder JM, Mugavero M, Barker T, Naggie S. Hepatitis C Virus Elimination in the Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Coinfected Population: Leveraging the Existing Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infrastructure. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2018; 32:407-423. [PMID: 29778263 PMCID: PMC6592269 DOI: 10.1016/j.idc.2018.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this review is to consider how existing human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infrastructure may be leveraged to inform and improve hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment efforts in the HIV-HCV coinfected population. Current gaps in HCV care relevant to the care continuum are reviewed. Successes in HIV treatment are then applied to the HCV treatment model for coinfected patients. Finally, the authors give examples of HCV treatment strategies for coinfected patients in both domestic and international settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredith E Clement
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Duke University Medical Center, 315 Trent Drive, Hanes House, Room 181, DUMC Box 102359, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Lauren F Collins
- Department of Medicine, Emory School of Medicine, 49 Jesse Hill Drive Southeast, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
| | - Julius M Wilder
- Duke Division of Gastroenterology, Box 90120, Durham, NC 27708-0120, USA; Duke Clinical Research Institute, 2400 Pratt Street, Durham, NC 27705, USA
| | - Michael Mugavero
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama Birmingham, Community Care Building, 908 20th Street South, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Taryn Barker
- Clinton Health Access Initiative, 383 Dorchester Avenue, Boston, MA 02127, USA
| | - Susanna Naggie
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Duke University Medical Center, 315 Trent Drive, Hanes House, Room 181, DUMC Box 102359, Durham, NC 27710, USA; Duke Clinical Research Institute, 2400 Pratt Street, Durham, NC 27705, USA.
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49
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Longo JDD, Mboumba Bouassa RS, Mbeko Simaleko M, Kouabosso A, Mossoro-Kpinde CD, Robin L, Charmant L, Grésenguet G, Bélec L. Usefulness of simultaneous screening for HIV-specific and HCV-specific antibodies and HBsAg by a capillary-based multiplex rapid diagnostic test to strengthen linkage-to-care in sub-Saharan patients attending sexually transmitted infection clinic. J Med Virol 2018; 90:1549-1552. [PMID: 29718536 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.25209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Adult outpatients attending the main sexually transmitted infection clinic of Bangui, Central African Republic, were prospectively subjected to a multiplex rapid diagnostic test for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV). In group I (n = 208) of patients already followed for HIV, 6 (2.9%) were unexpectedly negative, thus corresponding to false positive for HIV by the national HIV algorithm; hepatitis B surface antigen and HCV positivities were high (18.7% and 4.3%, respectively). In group II (n = 71) of patients with unknown HIV status, at least 1 chronic viral disease was diagnosed in 26 (36.6%) patients, including 5 (7.1%) HIV, 17 (23.9%) HBV, and 3 (4.2%) HCV infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean De Dieu Longo
- Centre National de Référence des Maladies Sexuellement Transmissibles, et de la Thérapie Antirétrovirale, Bangui, Central African Republic.,Département de Santé Publique, Faculté des Sciences de la Santé de Bangui, Unité de Recherches et d'Intervention sur les Maladies Sexuellement Transmissibles, et le SIDA, Bangui, Central African Republic
| | - Ralph-Sydney Mboumba Bouassa
- Ecole Doctorale Régionale d'Infectiologie Tropicale, Franceville, Gabon.,Laboratoire National de Biologie Clinique et de Santé Publique, Bangui, Central African Republic
| | - Marcel Mbeko Simaleko
- Centre National de Référence des Maladies Sexuellement Transmissibles, et de la Thérapie Antirétrovirale, Bangui, Central African Republic
| | - André Kouabosso
- Centre National de Référence des Maladies Sexuellement Transmissibles, et de la Thérapie Antirétrovirale, Bangui, Central African Republic
| | | | - Leman Robin
- Laboratoire de Microbiologie, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Laura Charmant
- Laboratoire de Microbiologie, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Gérard Grésenguet
- Centre National de Référence des Maladies Sexuellement Transmissibles, et de la Thérapie Antirétrovirale, Bangui, Central African Republic.,Département de Santé Publique, Faculté des Sciences de la Santé de Bangui, Unité de Recherches et d'Intervention sur les Maladies Sexuellement Transmissibles, et le SIDA, Bangui, Central African Republic
| | - Laurent Bélec
- Laboratoire de Microbiologie, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France.,Faculté de Médecine Paris Descartes, Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
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50
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Mboumba Bouassa RS, Nodjikouambaye ZA, Sadjoli D, Moussa AM, Adawaye C, Koyalta D, Bélec L. Usefulness of Simultaneous Screening for HIV- and Hepatitis C-Specific Antibodies and Hepatitis B Surface Antigen by Capillary-Based Multiplex Immunochromatographic Rapid Test to Strengthen Prevention Strategies and Linkage to Care in Childbearing-Aged Women Living in Resource-Limited Settings. Open Forum Infect Dis 2018; 5:ofy069. [PMID: 29766018 PMCID: PMC5941152 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofy069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Childbearing-aged women (n = 266) attending a gynecological clinic in Chad were subjected to multiplex immunochromatographic rapid test for HIV, hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV). Ten (3.7%) and 8 (3.0%) were seropositive for HIV and HCV, respectively, and 20 (7.5%) for HBV surface antigen, allowing diagnosis of chronic viral infections in 1 of 7 (14.3%) women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralph-Sydney Mboumba Bouassa
- Ecole Doctorale Régionale d'Infectiologie Tropicale, Franceville, Gabon.,Laboratoire de Virologie, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, and Faculté de Médecine Paris Descartes, Université Paris Descartes (Paris V), Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Zita Aleyo Nodjikouambaye
- Ecole Doctorale Régionale d'Infectiologie Tropicale, Franceville, Gabon.,Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique, Hôpital de la Mère et de l'Enfant, and Cabinet Médical de Gynécologie Obstétrique "La Renaissance Plus," N'Djamena, Chad
| | - Damtheou Sadjoli
- Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique, Hôpital de la Mère et de l'Enfant, and Cabinet Médical de Gynécologie Obstétrique "La Renaissance Plus," N'Djamena, Chad
| | - Ali Mahamat Moussa
- Faculté de Médecine, N'Djamena, Chad.,Service de Gastro-entérologie, Hôpital Général de Référence Nationale, N'Djamena, Chad
| | - Chatte Adawaye
- Institut National Supérieur des Sciences et Techniques d'Abéché, Abéché, Chad
| | | | - Laurent Bélec
- Laboratoire de Virologie, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, and Faculté de Médecine Paris Descartes, Université Paris Descartes (Paris V), Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
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