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Aponte-Meléndez Y, Eckhardt B, Fong C, Padilla A, Trinidad-Martínez W, Maldonado-Rodríguez E, Agront N, Mateu-Gelabert P. Prevalence and associated risk factors of hepatitis C antibody and RNA among people who inject drugs in Puerto Rico. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE AND ADDICTION TREATMENT 2024; 160:209308. [PMID: 38301921 PMCID: PMC11060894 DOI: 10.1016/j.josat.2024.209308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION As a public health crisis, hepatitis C viral infection (HCV) is highly prevalent among people who inject drugs (PWID). We aimed to assess factors associated with HCV antibody (Ab) and HCV ribonucleic acid (RNA) positivity among PWID in Puerto Rico. METHODS The study recruited a total of 150 persons in rural and peri-urban community settings through the respondent-driven sampling method and administered a structured questionnaire. We conducted HIV and HCV testing using dried blood spots (DBS). We examined correlates of HCV infection with sociodemographics, drug use patterns, and injection practices using regression in bivariate and multivariable analysis. RESULTS Of the 150 participants, 89 % were male; 11 % were female; 72 % identified as mixed race; and the median duration of drug injection was 17.8 years. The mean age was 43.1 years, with 64 % of the population being from 23 to 45 years old. Among study participants (n = 150), the prevalence of HCV Ab was 73 %, and HCV RNA was 53 %. Factors significantly associated with HCV Ab and RNA included older age, increasing years of injection, incarceration, injecting other people, and identifying as Black. The belief that syringe air blowing reduces HCV transmission was also independently associated with HCV Ab positivity. CONCLUSIONS Our findings regarding risk factors associated with HCV infection show the need to enhance prevention and control strategies for reducing transmission among PWID. Direct-acting antiviral treatment, sustained access to harm reduction, and culturally tailored services will be required to substantially reduce rates of HCV. Community-based treatment models and treatment in correctional settings are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yesenia Aponte-Meléndez
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health (ISPH), 55 West 125(th) street, New York, NY 10027, USA; NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing, 433 1(st) Ave., New York, NY, 10010, USA.
| | - Benjamin Eckhardt
- New York University School of Medicine, 550 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA.
| | - Chunki Fong
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health (ISPH), 55 West 125(th) street, New York, NY 10027, USA.
| | - Adriana Padilla
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health (ISPH), 55 West 125(th) street, New York, NY 10027, USA.
| | - Wanda Trinidad-Martínez
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health (ISPH), 55 West 125(th) street, New York, NY 10027, USA.
| | - Eric Maldonado-Rodríguez
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health (ISPH), 55 West 125(th) street, New York, NY 10027, USA.
| | - Nancy Agront
- AbbVie Corp., Paseo Caribe Building Suite 22415 Ave Munoz Rivera San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico.
| | - Pedro Mateu-Gelabert
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health (ISPH), 55 West 125(th) street, New York, NY 10027, USA.
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Chappell CA, Stewart E, Laird HJ, Jonassaint N, Kasula K, Patterson M, Krans EE. Postpartum Treatment for Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Among People With Opioid Use Disorder: A Prospective Pilot Clinical Trial. J Addict Med 2024; 18:160-166. [PMID: 38258866 DOI: 10.1097/adm.0000000000001266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of postpartum hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment integrated within a substance use treatment program for pregnant and postpartum people with opioid use disorder (OUD). METHODS We conducted a prospective pilot clinical trial of sofosbuvir/velpatasvir (SOF/VEL) treatment among postpartum people with OUD and HCV. Feasibility outcomes included rates of HCV treatment utilization and completion, medication adherence, and sustained virologic response 12 weeks after treatment completion (SVR12). Acceptability was measured through self-reported adverse effects and medication adherence. RESULTS From January 2018 to August 2021, 164 pregnant people received care for OUD at the study site. Among those, 64 (39.0%) were HCV antibody positive and 45 (27.4%) had active HCV infection. Among 45 eligible patients, 32 (71.1%) enrolled and 21 (46.7%) initiated HCV treatment. Of 21 participants who initiated treatment, 16 (76.2%) completed the SOF/VEL treatment, and 11 (52.4%) completed the SVR12. All participants who completed treatment were cured. Common reasons for dropout during the HCV clinical care cascade were OUD treatment discontinuation, illicit substance use recurrence, and lost to follow-up. Participants reported high satisfaction with HCV treatment, including minimal adverse effects, and no HCV treatment concerns. CONCLUSIONS Nearly half of pregnant people with HCV initiated postpartum treatment within an integrated care model of HCV treatment within a substance use treatment program. Postpartum SOF/VEL was efficacious, tolerable, and acceptable. Despite this, postpartum HCV treatment among people with OUD remains challenging, and many barriers remain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine A Chappell
- From the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA (CAC, EEK); Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA (CAC, ES, HJL, NJ, KK, MP, EEK); and Department of Gastroenterology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA (NJ)
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Pinazo-Bandera JM, Aranda J, García-García AM, Alcántara R, Ortega-Alonso A, Del Campo-Herrera E, Clavijo E, García-Escaño MD, Ruiz Ruiz JJ, Morales-Herrera M, Valle-López V, Martín-Alarcón R, Viciana I, Jiménez JB, Fernández-García F, Toro-Ortiz JP, Sánchez-Yáñez E, Álvarez-Álvarez I, Andrade RJ, Robles-Díaz M, García-Cortés M. Hepatitis C virus point-of-care microelimination approach in a vulnerable population in the South of Spain. Gastroenterol Rep (Oxf) 2024; 12:goad077. [PMID: 38264764 PMCID: PMC10805342 DOI: 10.1093/gastro/goad077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Since the introduction of direct-acting antivirals, thousands of chronic hepatitis C patients have been successfully treated. However, vulnerable populations have a higher prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and face barriers that impede their access to antivirals. We carried out an HCV microelimination program focused on vulnerable population groups in Malaga. Methods People in drug addiction treatment centers and homeless shelters in Malaga who participated in the program between October 2020 and October 2021 were included. After providing participants with educational information on HCV, a dry drop test (DDT) was used to collect blood for subsequent screening for HCV infection. The participants who were diagnosed with HCV infection were scheduled for comprehensive healthcare assessments, including blood tests, ultrasonography, elastography, and the prescription of antivirals, all conducted in a single hospital visit. Sustained viral response (SVR) was analysed 12 weeks after end of treatment. Results Of the 417 persons invited to participate, 271 (65%) agreed to participate in the program. These participants were screened for HCV infection and 28 of them were diagnosed with HCV infection (10%). These hepatitis C-infected patients had a mean age of 53 ± 9 years; 86% were males and 93% were or had been drug users. Among 23 patients with HCV infection, HCV genotype 1a predominated (74%). Medical exams showed that 19% (4/21) had advanced fibrosis (F3-4), and 5% (1/21) had portal hypertension. Finally, 23 infected patients received treatment with glecaprevir/pibrentasvir or sofosbuvir/velpatasvir and SVR was confirmed in 22 patients (96%). Conclusions Drug users and homeless people have a higher prevalence of HCV infection than the general population. The microelimination program with educational activity and screening tools achieved a high participation rate, easy healthcare access, and a high rate of SVR despite the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- José María Pinazo-Bandera
- Gastroenterology Department, Málaga Biomedicine Research Institute-IBIMA BIONAND Platform, Virgen de la Victoria University Hospital, University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain
- Biomedic Research Network in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jesús Aranda
- Gastroenterology Department, Málaga Biomedicine Research Institute-IBIMA BIONAND Platform, Virgen de la Victoria University Hospital, University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Alberto Manuel García-García
- Gastroenterology Department, Málaga Biomedicine Research Institute-IBIMA BIONAND Platform, Virgen de la Victoria University Hospital, University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Ramiro Alcántara
- Gastroenterology Department, Málaga Biomedicine Research Institute-IBIMA BIONAND Platform, Virgen de la Victoria University Hospital, University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Aida Ortega-Alonso
- Gastroenterology Department, Málaga Biomedicine Research Institute-IBIMA BIONAND Platform, Virgen de la Victoria University Hospital, University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain
- Biomedic Research Network in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
| | - Enrique Del Campo-Herrera
- Gastroenterology Department, Málaga Biomedicine Research Institute-IBIMA BIONAND Platform, Virgen de la Victoria University Hospital, University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Encarnación Clavijo
- Microbiology Department, Málaga Biomedicine Research Institute-IBIMA BIONAND Platform, Virgen de la Victoria University Hospital, University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - M Dolores García-Escaño
- Gastroenterology Department, Málaga Biomedicine Research Institute-IBIMA BIONAND Platform, Virgen de la Victoria University Hospital, University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Juan Jesús Ruiz Ruiz
- Provincial Center for Drug Addiction, Provincial Council of Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Isabel Viciana
- Microbiology Department, Málaga Biomedicine Research Institute-IBIMA BIONAND Platform, Virgen de la Victoria University Hospital, University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | | | - Felix Fernández-García
- Gastroenterology Department, Málaga Biomedicine Research Institute-IBIMA BIONAND Platform, Virgen de la Victoria University Hospital, University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Juan Pedro Toro-Ortiz
- Gastroenterology Department, Málaga Biomedicine Research Institute-IBIMA BIONAND Platform, Virgen de la Victoria University Hospital, University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Elena Sánchez-Yáñez
- Farmacy Department, Virgen de la Victoria University Hospital, Málaga, Spain
| | - Ismael Álvarez-Álvarez
- Gastroenterology Department, Málaga Biomedicine Research Institute-IBIMA BIONAND Platform, Virgen de la Victoria University Hospital, University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain
- Biomedic Research Network in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
| | - Raúl J Andrade
- Gastroenterology Department, Málaga Biomedicine Research Institute-IBIMA BIONAND Platform, Virgen de la Victoria University Hospital, University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain
- Biomedic Research Network in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
| | - Mercedes Robles-Díaz
- Gastroenterology Department, Málaga Biomedicine Research Institute-IBIMA BIONAND Platform, Virgen de la Victoria University Hospital, University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain
- Biomedic Research Network in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
| | - Miren García-Cortés
- Gastroenterology Department, Málaga Biomedicine Research Institute-IBIMA BIONAND Platform, Virgen de la Victoria University Hospital, University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain
- Biomedic Research Network in Hepatic and Digestive Diseases (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
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Aponte-Meléndez Y, Mateu-Gelabert P, Eckhardt B, Fong C, Padilla A, Trinidad-Martínez W, Maldonado-Rodríguez E, Agront N. Hepatitis C virus care cascade among people who inject drugs in puerto rico: Minimal HCV treatment and substantial barriers to HCV care. DRUG AND ALCOHOL DEPENDENCE REPORTS 2023; 8:100178. [PMID: 37555192 PMCID: PMC10404601 DOI: 10.1016/j.dadr.2023.100178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
Background People who inject drugs (PWID) in Puerto Rico are disproportionately affected by the hepatitis C virus (HCV) epidemic. However, there is a scarcity of data on the HCV care cascade among PWID in Puerto Rico. This study aims to describe the HCV cascade of care among PWID in Puerto Rico, identify gaps, and explore barriers to HCV care. Methods Participants were recruited using respondent-driven sampling and tested for both HCV antibodies (Ab) and RNA (ribonucleic acid) using rapid testing and dried blood spot samples (DBS). The cascade of care was estimated based on the DBS HCV Ab and RNA results, as well as self-reported data on HCV screening, linkage to care, treatment uptake and sustained virologic response collected through a questionnaire. The cascade was constructed sequentially, with each step using the number of people from the preceding step as the base denominator. The survey also assessed participants' perceived barriers to HCV care. Results Out of 150 participants, 126 (84%) had previously been HCV screened, 87% (109/126) were HCV Ab positive, 72% (79/109) were RNA positive,48% (38/79) were linked to care, 32% (12/38) initiated treatment, 58% (7/12) finished treatment, and 71% (5/7) achieved SVR. Barriers to HCV care included concerns about drug abstinence requirements, access to transportation, stigma in healthcare settings, and lack of knowledge about HCV treatment sites. Conclusion This study provides insights into the HCV cascade of care among PWID in Puerto Rico for the first time and highlights limited diagnosis, treatment uptake, and barriers to care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yesenia Aponte-Meléndez
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health(ISPH) 55 West 125th street, New York, NY 10027,USA
- NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing 433 1st Ave., New York, NY 10010
| | - Pedro Mateu-Gelabert
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health(ISPH) 55 West 125th street, New York, NY 10027,USA
| | - Benjamin Eckhardt
- New York University School of Medicine, 550 First Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Chunki Fong
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health(ISPH) 55 West 125th street, New York, NY 10027,USA
| | - Adriana Padilla
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health(ISPH) 55 West 125th street, New York, NY 10027,USA
| | - Wanda Trinidad-Martínez
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health(ISPH) 55 West 125th street, New York, NY 10027,USA
| | - Eric Maldonado-Rodríguez
- CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, Institute for Implementation Science in Population Health(ISPH) 55 West 125th street, New York, NY 10027,USA
| | - Nancy Agront
- AbbVie Corp., Paseo Caribe Building Suite 22415 Ave Munoz Rivera San Juan, 00901, Puerto Rico
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Burton HJ, Khatiwada A, Chung D, Meissner EG. Association of Referral Source and Substance Use with Hepatitis C Virus Outcomes at a Southern Academic Medical Center. South Med J 2022; 115:352-357. [PMID: 35649518 DOI: 10.14423/smj.0000000000001402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Therapeutic advances make the cure of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection achievable for individuals aware of their diagnosis who can access care. Identifying barriers to accessing care is critical to achieve population-level HCV elimination and improve the cascade of care from diagnosis to cure. METHODS To identify barriers to HCV care, we performed a retrospective observational analysis of outcomes for patients with chronic HCV referred to an infectious diseases clinic at an academic medical center in Charleston, South Carolina between January 1, 2015 and January 1, 2020. We categorized outcomes in the cascade of care between "never presenting for evaluation" and "completed treatment with documented cure." Patient demographic factors, referral source, ZIP code of residence, insurance status, clinical characteristics, antiviral regimen, psychiatric and substance use history, and route of infection were assessed for associations with care outcomes. RESULTS Of 407 referrals, 32% of patients never presented for an initial evaluation, an outcome that was associated with active substance use, mental health disease, and referral from an emergency department or obstetrics-gynecology provider. Of the patients who presented for an initial evaluation, 78% of patients initiated treatment. Active substance use was the only variable associated with lack of therapy initiation after presenting for an initial evaluation (odds ratio 2.5, 95% confidence interval 1.07-5.84). Once treatment had been initiated, no clinical or demographic variables were associated with odds of achieving documented or presumed HCV cure. CONCLUSIONS Active substance use, mental health disease, and referral from an emergency department or obstetrics-gynecology provider were associated with a lower odds of presenting for evaluation and initiation of HCV treatment. Innovative models to improve access to care and increase outreach to vulnerable populations will be essential to eliminate HCV.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Jensie Burton
- From the Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, the Division of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, National Jewish Health, Denver, Colorado, and the Department of Biomedical Informatics, Ohio State University, Columbus
| | - Aastha Khatiwada
- From the Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, the Division of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, National Jewish Health, Denver, Colorado, and the Department of Biomedical Informatics, Ohio State University, Columbus
| | - Dongjun Chung
- From the Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, the Division of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, National Jewish Health, Denver, Colorado, and the Department of Biomedical Informatics, Ohio State University, Columbus
| | - Eric G Meissner
- From the Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, the Division of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, National Jewish Health, Denver, Colorado, and the Department of Biomedical Informatics, Ohio State University, Columbus
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Kouroumalis E, Voumvouraki A. Hepatitis C virus: A critical approach to who really needs treatment. World J Hepatol 2022; 14:1-44. [PMID: 35126838 PMCID: PMC8790391 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v14.i1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction of effective drugs in the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has prompted the World Health Organization to declare a global eradication target by 2030. Propositions have been made to screen the general population and treat all HCV carriers irrespective of the disease status. A year ago the new severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 virus appeared causing a worldwide pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 disease. Huge financial resources were redirected, and the pandemic became the first priority in every country. In this review, we examined the feasibility of the World Health Organization elimination program and the actual natural course of HCV infection. We also identified and analyzed certain comorbidity factors that may aggravate the progress of HCV and some marginalized subpopulations with characteristics favoring HCV dissemination. Alcohol consumption, HIV coinfection and the presence of components of metabolic syndrome including obesity, hyperuricemia and overt diabetes were comorbidities mostly responsible for increased liver-related morbidity and mortality of HCV. We also examined the significance of special subpopulations like people who inject drugs and males having sex with males. Finally, we proposed a different micro-elimination screening and treatment program that can be implemented in all countries irrespective of income. We suggest that screening and treatment of HCV carriers should be limited only in these particular groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias Kouroumalis
- Department of Gastroenterology, University of Crete Medical School, Heraklion 71500, Crete, Greece
| | - Argyro Voumvouraki
- First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Thessaloniki 54621, Greece
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Genberg BL, Gicquelais RE, Astemborski J, Knight J, Buresh M, Sun J, German D, Thomas DL, Kirk GD, Mehta SH. Trends in fatal and nonfatal overdose by race among people who inject drugs in Baltimore, Maryland from 1998 to 2019. Drug Alcohol Depend 2021; 229:109152. [PMID: 34749056 PMCID: PMC8665116 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.109152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to examine trends in fatal and nonfatal overdose in a community-based sample of current and former people who inject drugs (PWID). METHODS Data from 4826 current and former PWID from the AIDS Linked to the IntraVenous Experience (ALIVE) observational cohort study in Baltimore, Maryland, were used to characterize fatal and nonfatal overdose rates from 1998 to 2019. Poisson regression was used to examine factors associated with nonfatal overdose and differences by race among 1052 PWID between 2014 and 2019. RESULTS Fatal overdose rates reached a high of 13 per 1000 person-years in 2018. Among 1052 current and former PWID, of whom 75% were Black and one-third were female, the nonfatal overdose rate of 529 per 1000 person-years in 2019 was 8 times higher than 2014 (incidence rate ratio [IRR]=7.76, 95% CI: 3.35, 18.0). The annual adjusted increase in nonfatal overdose rate was 53% among Black PWID (IRR=1.53, 95% CI: 1.34, 1.75), compared to 14% among White PWID (IRR=1.14, 95% CI: 0.88, 1.46). Urban residence, opioid use, depressive symptoms, and hepatitis C infection were positively associated with nonfatal overdose among Black PWID. Recent injection drug use and tranquilizer use was associated with increased overdose among Black and White PWID. CONCLUSIONS Rates of fatal and nonfatal overdose were high and increased from 2014 to 2019 among current and former PWID, with the most dramatic increases in nonfatal overdose observed among Black PWID. These findings highlight the urgent need for additional resources to reduce the differential harms associated with opioids by race.
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Affiliation(s)
- Becky L. Genberg
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Rachel E. Gicquelais
- University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Nursing, 701 Highland Ave, Madison, WI, 53705 USA
| | - Jacquie Astemborski
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Jennifer Knight
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Megan Buresh
- Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Division of Addiction Medicine, 5200 Eastern Avenue, Mason Lord Building, East Tower, 2nd floor, Baltimore, MD 21224 USA
| | - Jing Sun
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Danielle German
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Health, Behavior and Society, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - David L. Thomas
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Gregory D. Kirk
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Shruti H. Mehta
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, 615 N. Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
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Stainbrook T, Elliott K, Powell A, Simpson MA, Bash M. Hepatitis C identification and treatment in rural Pennsylvania, USA. Prev Med Rep 2021; 24:101526. [PMID: 34976603 PMCID: PMC8683873 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2021.101526] [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: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The opioid epidemic in the United States has led to increases in hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection especially in rural communities. It is recommended that persons who inject drugs undergo screening and treatment. We initiated HCV screening and treatment within a mostly rural area of Pennsylvania by targeting medicated-assisted treatment (MAT) facilities and community events. Screening was conducted in 43 rural and 13 urban counties by a clinical team. At MAT facilities, the clinical team performed HCV screening between 4:30am and 1:00pm using the OraQuick HCV test free of charge. Participants with a positive screen were linked to treatment. In all, 3,051 screening tests were conducted among 2,995 unique participants, who were mostly white (2821, 94%) and from rural counties (2597, 87%). Participants were most frequently 25-to-34 years old (798, 27%). A total of 730 patients were HCV screen positive, 371 patients received an HCV RNA PCR test, and 272 were HCV RNA positive. Of them, 249 met with a healthcare provider, 102 initiated treatment, and 50 completed SVR testing, with 49 achieving SVR. Anti-HCV positivity was more frequent among MAT facility versus non-MAT patients (41% versus 5%) (p < .001). Non-MAT participants were more likely to begin treatment for HCV (91% [21/23] versus 30% [81/272]) and achieve SVR (71% versus 43%). In HCV screening and treatment among high-risk patients, substantial numbers of participants were lost at every point of care between screening and follow-up testing. Specific screening, treatment, and follow-up strategies for persons in rural communities may be needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kelsey Elliott
- TruCare Internal Medicine & Infectious Diseases, DuBois, PA, USA
| | - Amy Powell
- TruCare Internal Medicine & Infectious Diseases, DuBois, PA, USA
| | - Mary A. Simpson
- TruCare Internal Medicine & Infectious Diseases, DuBois, PA, USA
| | - Maddy Bash
- TruCare Internal Medicine & Infectious Diseases, DuBois, PA, USA
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Impact of direct-acting antivirals for HCV on mortality in a large population-based cohort study. J Hepatol 2021; 75:1049-1057. [PMID: 34097994 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2021.05.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS We evaluated the effect of direct-acting antiviral (DAA)-induced sustained virologic response (SVR) on all-cause, liver- and drug-related mortality in a population-based cohort in British Columbia, Canada. METHODS We used data from the British Columbia Hepatitis Testers Cohort, which includes people tested for HCV since 1990, linked with data on medical visits, hospitalizations, prescription drugs and mortality. We followed people who received DAAs and people who did not receive any HCV treatment to death or December 31, 2019. We used inverse probability of treatment weighting to balance the baseline profile of treated and untreated individuals and performed multivariable proportional hazard modelling to assess the effect of DAAs on mortality. RESULTS Our cohort comprised 10,851 people treated with DAAs (SVR 10,426 [96%], no-SVR: 425) and 10,851 matched untreated individuals. Median follow-up time was 2.2 years (IQR 1.3-3.6; maximum 6.2). The all-cause mortality rate was 19.5/1,000 person-years (PY) among the SVR group (deaths = 552), 86.5/1,000 PY among the no-SVR group (deaths = 96), and 99.2/1,000 PY among the untreated group (deaths = 2,133). In the multivariable model, SVR was associated with significant reduction in all-cause (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 0.19; 95% CI 0.17-0.21), liver- (adjusted subdistribution HR [asHR] 0.22, 95% CI 0.18-0.27) and drug-related mortality (asHR 0.26, 95% CI 0.21-0.32) compared to no-treatment. Older age and cirrhosis were associated with higher risk of liver-related mortality while younger age, injection drug use (IDU), problematic alcohol use and HIV/HBV co-infections were associated with a higher risk of drug-related mortality. CONCLUSIONS DAA treatment is associated with a substantial reduction in all-cause, liver- and drug-related mortality. The association of IDU and related syndemic factors with a higher risk of drug-related mortality calls for an integrated social support, addiction, and HCV care approach among people who inject drugs. LAY SUMMARY We assessed the effect of treatment of hepatitis C virus infection with direct-acting antiviral drugs on deaths from all causes, liver disease and drug use. We found that treatment with direct-acting antiviral drugs is associated with substantial lowering in risk of death from all causes, liver disease and drug use among people with hepatitis C virus infection.
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10
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Epstein RL, Moloney C, Garfinkel J, Saia K, Wachman EM, Lodi S, Pelton SI. Enhancing Linkage to Hepatitis C Virus Treatment Following Pregnancy in Women Identified During Perinatal Care. Hepatol Commun 2021; 5:1543-1554. [PMID: 34510828 PMCID: PMC8435278 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Revised: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Amid the current US opioid crisis, hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection rates continue to rise in young adults, including among pregnant women, yet few studies describe linkage to care and treatment in pregnant or postpartum women with HCV infection. We used electronic health record data to estimate HCV treatment rates for postpartum women before (January 2014-September 2016) and during (October 2016-March 2018) implementation of a maternal-infant HCV linkage program in combination with a multidisciplinary clinic to colocate mother and infant care. Using Poisson regression models, we compared HCV treatment initiation rates, adjusting for demographics, substance use, and treatment. From January 2014 through March 2018, 343 women who were HCV seropositive delivered at our institution. Of these, 95% completed HCV nucleic acid testing and 255 women had chronic HCV infection. Mean age was 30 years, 96% were publicly insured, and 94% had documented substance use. HCV treatment initiation increased from 28/164 (17.1%) women with chronic HCV infection in the preintervention period to 16/66 (24.2%) with the linkage-only intervention and 13/25 (52.0%) with the linkage intervention and colocated care. Adjusted analyses demonstrated that women delivering during the intervention period initiated HCV treatment at 2.40 times (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.10-5.25; linkage only) and 3.36 times (95% CI, 1.57-7.17; linkage and colocated care) the rate of women delivering preintervention. Women on buprenorphine had higher HCV treatment initiation rates compared with those on methadone (rate ratio, 2.10; 95% CI, 1.05-4.21). Conclusion: HCV linkage to care and treatment rates improved in the setting of mother-infant linkage and colocated care interventions. Perinatal care may represent a critical venue to identify, link, and treat women for HCV infection to improve their own health and prevent transmission to subsequent pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel L Epstein
- Department of MedicineSection of Infectious DiseasesBoston University School of MedicineBostonMAUSA.,Department of PediatricsSection of Infectious DiseasesBoston University School of MedicineBostonMAUSA
| | - Carole Moloney
- Department of PediatricsSection of Infectious DiseasesBoston University School of MedicineBostonMAUSA
| | | | - Kelley Saia
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyBoston University School of MedicineBostonMAUSA
| | - Elisha M Wachman
- Department of PediatricsBoston University School of MedicineBostonMAUSA
| | - Sara Lodi
- Department of BiostatisticsBoston University School of Public HealthBostonMAUSA
| | - Stephen I Pelton
- Department of PediatricsSection of Infectious DiseasesBoston University School of MedicineBostonMAUSA
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11
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Yang X, Tang Y, Xu D, Zhang G, Xu P, Tang H, Pang L. Efficacy and safety of ledipasvir/sofosbuvir for hepatitis C among drug users: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Virol J 2021; 18:156. [PMID: 34315488 PMCID: PMC8314543 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-021-01625-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Limited data is available on the efficacy of direct acting anti-viral drugs on hepatitis C in drug users. The aim of this meta-analysis was to comprehensively analyze the efficacy and safety of LDV/SOF in drug users infected with the hepatitis C virus (HCV). METHODS The PubMed, Cochrane library, Embase and Web of Science databases were searched for articles published till April 2021 on HCV-positive drug users who were treated with ledipasvir/sofosbuvir (LDV/SOF). The primary endpoint was pooled sustained virological response at 12 weeks (SVR12) with 95% confidence interval (95% CI). Funnel plots and Egger's test were used to assess the publication bias. RESULTS A total of 12 studies and 711 subjects treated with LDV/SOF-based regimen for HCV were included, and the pooled SVR12 rate was 89.8% (95% CI 85.9-92.7). The pooled SVR12 rate of genotype 1 drug users was 92.4% (95% CI 88.6-95.0). Subgroup analysis showed that pooled SVR12 rates of patients treated with LDV/SOF and LDV/SOF ± RBV were 89.2% (95% CI 83.4-93.1), 90.4% (95% CI 83.6-94.5) respectively. In addition, the SVR12 rates were 88% (95% CI 70.7-95.7) for 8 weeks, 89.9% (95% CI 81.0-94.9) for 12 weeks and 82.2% (95% CI 24.9-98.5) for 24 weeks of treatment. CONCLUSION LDV/SOF is a safe and relatively effective treatment for hepatitis C in drug users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Yang
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Tang
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Di Xu
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Guang Zhang
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Peng Xu
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Houlin Tang
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China.
| | - Lin Pang
- National Center for AIDS/STD Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
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12
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Kim D, Alshuwaykh OS, Cholankeril G, Wong RJ, Ahmed A. Trends in mortality in hepatitis C infection and alcoholic liver disease based on drug overdose in the United States. J Viral Hepat 2021; 28:436-439. [PMID: 33147365 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
We examined trends in mortality from hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and alcoholic liver disease (ALD) in the setting of drug overdose. Using US Census and national mortality records (2009-2018), we identified deaths with HCV infection, ALD and drug overdose. HCV-related mortality without drug overdose increased up to 2014, followed by a marked decrease. Mortality from HCV and drug overdose increased significantly. Whereas ALD-related mortality without drug overdose continued to rise, no significant trend from ALD with drug overdose was noted. HCV-related mortalities reduced after the introduction of DAA agents, while drug overdose-related mortality in HCV was constantly increased.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donghee Kim
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Omar S Alshuwaykh
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - George Cholankeril
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Robert J Wong
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.,Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Healthcare System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Aijaz Ahmed
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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13
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Pawlotsky JM, Negro F, Aghemo A, Berenguer M, Dalgard O, Dusheiko G, Marra F, Puoti M, Wedemeyer H. EASL recommendations on treatment of hepatitis C: Final update of the series ☆. J Hepatol 2020; 73:1170-1218. [PMID: 32956768 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2020.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 573] [Impact Index Per Article: 143.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major cause of chronic liver disease, with approximately 71 million chronically infected individuals worldwide. Clinical care for patients with HCV-related liver disease has advanced considerably thanks to an enhanced understanding of the pathophysiology of the disease, as well as developments in diagnostic procedures and improvements in therapy and prevention. These therapies make it possible to eliminate hepatitis C as a major public health threat, as per the World Health Organization target, although the timeline and feasibility vary from region to region. These European Association for the Study of the Liver recommendations on treatment of hepatitis C describe the optimal management of patients with recently acquired and chronic HCV infections in 2020 and onwards.
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14
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Min JE, Pearce LA, Janjua NZ, Ti L, Nosyk B. The Causal Effect of Opioid Agonist Treatment on Adherence to Direct-Acting Antiviral Treatment for Hepatitis C Virus. Open Forum Infect Dis 2020. [DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofaa418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Opioid agonist treatment (OAT) supports adherence in medication regimens for other concurrent conditions. However, sparse evidence is available on its effect on promoting retention to direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) for people with opioid use disorder (PWOUD) with concurrent hepatitis C virus (HCV). Our objective was to determine the causal impact of OAT exposure on DAA adherence among HCV-positive PWOUD.
Methods
We executed a retrospective study using linked population-level data for British Columbia, Canada (January 1996–September 2018). We estimated the effect of OAT on DAA adherence using generalized estimating equations (GEEs) and marginal structural modeling (MSM) for time-varying confounding. The primary outcome was 85% DAA adherence (minimum 6 of 7 days).
Results
We included 2820 HCV-positive PWOUD who initiated a DAA regimen (32.6% female, 83.9% previously accessing OAT), with 2410 (95% among uncensored episodes) completing the regimen. The GEE-adjusted odds ratio of DAA adherence after OAT exposure was 1.05 (0.89–1.23), whereas the MSM-adjusted odds ratio was 0.97 (0.78–1.22).
Conclusions
In a setting with universal healthcare and widespread access to OAT and DAA treatment, DAA regimen completion rates were high regardless of OAT, and engagement in OAT did not increase DAA adherence. Nonengagement in OAT should not preclude DAA treatment for PWOUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong E Min
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Lindsay A Pearce
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada
- University of Melbourne, School of Population and Global Health, Victoria, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Naveed Z Janjua
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Lianping Ti
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Bohdan Nosyk
- British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS, Vancouver, Canada
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, Canada
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15
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Binka M, Janjua NZ, Grebely J, Estes C, Schanzer D, Kwon JA, Shoukry NH, Kwong JC, Razavi H, Feld JJ, Krajden M. Assessment of Treatment Strategies to Achieve Hepatitis C Elimination in Canada Using a Validated Model. JAMA Netw Open 2020; 3:e204192. [PMID: 32374397 PMCID: PMC7203608 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2020.4192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Importance Achievement of the World Health Organization (WHO) target of eliminating hepatitis C virus (HCV) by 2030 will require an increase in key services, including harm reduction, HCV screening, and HCV treatment initiatives in member countries. These data are not available for Canada but are important for informing a national HCV elimination strategy. Objective To use a decision analytical model to explore the association of different treatment strategies with HCV epidemiology and HCV-associated mortality in Canada and to assess the levels of service increase needed to meet the WHO elimination targets by 2030. Design, Setting, and Participants Study participants in this decision analytical model included individuals with hepatitis C virus infection in Canada. Five HCV treatment scenarios (optimistic, very aggressive, aggressive, gradual decrease, and rapid decrease) were applied using a previously validated Markov-type mathematical model. The optimistic and very aggressive treatment scenarios modeled a sustained annual treatment of 10 200 persons and 14 000 persons, respectively, from 2018 to 2030. The aggressive, gradual decrease, and rapid decrease scenarios assessed decreases in treatment uptake from 14 000 persons to 10 000 persons per year, 12 000 persons to 8500 persons per year, and 12 000 persons to 4500 persons per year, respectively, between 2018 and 2030. Main Outcomes and Measures Hepatitis C virus prevalence and HCV-associated health outcomes were assessed for each of the 5 treatment scenarios with the goal of identifying strategies to achieve HCV elimination by 2030. Results An estimated mean 180 142 persons (95% CI, 122 786-196 862 persons) in Canada had chronic HCV infection at the end of 2017. The optimistic and gradual decrease scenarios estimated a decrease in HCV prevalence from 180 142 persons to 37 246 persons and 37 721 persons, respectively, by 2030. Relative to 2015, this decrease in HCV prevalence was associated with 74%, 69%, and 69% reductions in the prevalence of decompensated cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and liver-associated mortality, respectively, leading to HCV elimination by 2030. More aggressive treatment uptake (very aggressive scenario) could result in goal achievement up to 3 years earlier than 2030, although a rapid decrease in the initiation of treatment (rapid decrease scenario) would preclude Canada from reaching the HCV elimination goal by 2030. Conclusions and Relevance The study findings suggest that Canada could meet the WHO goals for HCV elimination by 2030 by sustaining the current national HCV treatment rate during the next decade. This target will not be achieved if treatment uptake is allowed to decrease rapidly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mawuena Binka
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Naveed Z. Janjua
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, Canada
- Canadian Network on Hepatitis C, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Jason Grebely
- Canadian Network on Hepatitis C, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Chris Estes
- Center for Disease Analysis, Lafayette, Colorado
| | - Dena Schanzer
- Canadian Network on Hepatitis C, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jisoo A. Kwon
- Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Naglaa H. Shoukry
- Canadian Network on Hepatitis C, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l’Universite de Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jeffrey C. Kwong
- Canadian Network on Hepatitis C, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Homie Razavi
- Center for Disease Analysis, Lafayette, Colorado
| | - Jordan J. Feld
- Canadian Network on Hepatitis C, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mel Krajden
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, Canada
- Canadian Network on Hepatitis C, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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16
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Darvishian M, Wong S, Binka M, Yu A, Ramji A, Yoshida EM, Wong J, Rossi C, Butt ZA, Bartlett S, Pearce ME, Samji H, Cook D, Alvarez M, Chong M, Tyndall M, Krajden M, Janjua NZ. Loss to follow-up: A significant barrier in the treatment cascade with direct-acting therapies. J Viral Hepat 2020; 27:243-260. [PMID: 31664755 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2019] [Revised: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Effectiveness of direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapies could be influenced by patient characteristics such as comorbid conditions, which could lead to premature treatment discontinuation and/or irregular medical follow-ups. Here, we evaluate loss to follow-up and treatment effectiveness of sofosbuvir/ledipasvir ± ribavirin (SOF/LDV ± RBV), ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir + dasabuvir ± ribavirin (OBV/PTV/r + DSV ± RBV) for hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1 (GT1) and sofosbuvir + ribavirin (SOF + RBV) for genotype 3 (GT3) in British Columbia Canada: The British Columbia Hepatitis Testers Cohort includes data on individuals tested for HCV since 1992, integrated with medical visit, hospitalization and prescription drug data. HCV-positive individuals who initiated DAA regimens, irrespective of treatment completion, for GT1 and GT3 until 31 December, 2017 were included. Factors associated with sustained virological response (SVR) and loss to follow-up were assessed by using multivariable logistic regression models. In total 4477 individuals initiated DAAs. The most common prescribed DAA was SOF/LDV ± RBV with SVR of 95%. The highest SVR of 99.5% was observed among OBV/PTV/r + DSV-treated patients. Overall, 453 (10.1%) individuals were lost to follow-up. Higher loss to follow-up was observed among GT1 patients treated with OBV (17.8%) and GT3 patients (15.7%). The loss to follow-up rate was significantly higher among individuals aged <60 years, those with a history of injection drug use (IDU), on opioid substitution therapy and with cirrhosis. Our findings indicate that loss to follow-up exceeds viral failure in HCV DAA therapy and its rate varies significantly by genotype and treatment regimen. Depending on the aetiology of lost to follow-up, personalized case management for those with medical complications and supporting services among IDU are needed to achieve the full benefits of effective treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Darvishian
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,BC Cancer Research Centre, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Population Oncology, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Stanley Wong
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Mawuena Binka
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Amanda Yu
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Alnoor Ramji
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Eric M Yoshida
- Division of Gastroenterology of the Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jason Wong
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Carmine Rossi
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Zahid A Butt
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Sofia Bartlett
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Margo E Pearce
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Hasina Samji
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Darrel Cook
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Maria Alvarez
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Mei Chong
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Mark Tyndall
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Mel Krajden
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Naveed Z Janjua
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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17
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Wilton J, Wong S, Yu A, Ramji A, Cook D, Butt ZA, Alvarez M, Binka M, Darvishian M, Jeong D, Bartlett SR, Pearce ME, Adu PA, Yoshida EM, Krajden M, Janjua NZ. Real-world Effectiveness of Sofosbuvir/Velpatasvir for Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C in British Columbia, Canada: A Population-Based Cohort Study. Open Forum Infect Dis 2020; 7:ofaa055. [PMID: 32154326 PMCID: PMC7052750 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofaa055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Clinical trials show high efficacy of sofosbuvir/velpatasvir (SOF/VEL), but there are limited data from “real-world” settings. We aimed to evaluate SOF/VEL effectiveness for all hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotypes (GTs) in British Columbia (BC), Canada. Methods We used the BC Hepatitis Testers Cohort, which includes all HCV cases in the province (1990–2015) linked to administrative databases, including prescriptions to end of 2018. We measured sustained virologic response (SVR; negative RNA ≥10 weeks after treatment end) and identified characteristics associated with non-SVR. Conservatively, we excluded individuals with no assessment for SVR if their last RNA test after treatment initiation was negative (but included if positive). Results Of 2821 eligible participants, most were infected with GT1 (1076, 38.1%) or GT3 (1072, 38.0%), and a minority (278, 9.9%) were treated with RBV. SVR was 94.6% (2670/2821) overall and 94.5% (1017/1076) for GT1, 96.4% (512/531) for GT2, and 93.7% (1004/1072) for GT3. When disaggregated by GT, treatment regimen, and cirrhosis/treatment experience, SVR was lowest (30/40, 75.0%) among treatment-experienced GT3 individuals treated with RBV. Characteristics associated with non-SVR in multivariable analysis included younger age, RBV addition, and being a person with HIV (PWH) or who injects/injected drugs (PWID). When treatment regimen (±RBV) was removed from multivariable model, treatment experience was associated with non-SVR for GT3. Of 151 non-SVR individuals, 56.3% were nonvirological failures (treatment incomplete/no assessment for SVR) and 43.7% were virological failures (nonresponse/relapse). A disproportionately high percentage of non-SVR among PWID was due to nonvirological failure. Conclusions SOF/VEL was highly effective in this “real-world” population-based cohort. Additional support is required for PWID/PWH to reach SVR.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Wilton
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Stanley Wong
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Amanda Yu
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Alnoor Ramji
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Darrel Cook
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Zahid A Butt
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,School of Public Health and Health Systems, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Maria Alvarez
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Mawuena Binka
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Maryam Darvishian
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Cancer Control Research, BC Cancer Research Center, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Population Oncology, BC Cancer Research Center, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Dahn Jeong
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sofia R Bartlett
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Margo E Pearce
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Prince A Adu
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Eric M Yoshida
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Mel Krajden
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Naveed Z Janjua
- British Columbia Centre 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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18
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Morgan TR. Hepatitis C Guidance 2019 Update: American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases-Infectious Diseases Society of America Recommendations for Testing, Managing, and Treating Hepatitis C Virus Infection. Hepatology 2020; 71:686-721. [PMID: 31816111 PMCID: PMC9710295 DOI: 10.1002/hep.31060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 449] [Impact Index Per Article: 112.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Timothy R. Morgan
- Chief of Hepatology Veterans Affairs Long Beach Healthcare System Long Beach CA
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19
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Ing Lorenzini K, Girardin F. Direct-acting antiviral interactions with opioids, alcohol or illicit drugs of abuse in HCV-infected patients. Liver Int 2020; 40:32-44. [PMID: 31654604 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
The hepatitis C virus (HCV) prevalence is extremely high in patients who consume and inject illicit drugs. Concerns about poor adherence and fear of interaction with drugs of abuse could constitute further disincentive for treatment initiation in these patients. We discussed the pharmacokinetics (PKs) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of currently prescribed direct antiviral agents (NSA5 inhibitors: daclatasvir, elbasvir, ledipasvir, pibrentasvir, velpatasvir; NS5B inhibitor: sofosbuvir; NS3/4A protease inhibitors: glecaprevir, grazoprevir, voxilaprevir) and most common substances of abuse (opioids: buprenorphine, fentanyl, heroin, methadone, morphine, oxycodone; stimulants: amphetamines, cathinones, cocaine; cannabinoids; ethanol). Overall, most direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) are substrates and inhibitors of the transmembrane transporter P-glycoprotein (P-gp), and several of them are metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes. Clinically relevant interactions are associated with P-gp and CYP3A modulators. Most substances of abuse are eliminated by Phase I and Phase II metabolizing enzymes, but none of them are either major inhibitors or inducers. PK studies did not show any relevant interactions between DAA and methadone or buprenorphine. Based on pharmacological considerations, neither efficacy loss nor adverse drug event associated with detrimental interaction are expected with opioids, stimulants, cannabinoids and ethanol. In summary, our literature review shows that the interaction potential of DAA with most opioids and illicit drugs is limited and should not be a hurdle to the initiate DAA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuntheavy Ing Lorenzini
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - François Girardin
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Hospitals of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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Rahman M, Janjua NZ, Shafiq TKI, Chowdhury EI, Sarker MS, Khan SI, Reza M, Faruque MO, Kabir A, Anis AH, Azim T. Hepatitis C virus treatment in people who inject drugs (PWID) in Bangladesh. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2019; 74:69-75. [DOI: https:/doi.org/10.1016/j.drugpo.2019.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
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21
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Wuerth K, Magel T, Conway B. Sofosbuvir and velpatasvir in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C. Future Virol 2019. [DOI: 10.2217/fvl-2019-0104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Advances in hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment led to the development of highly effective all oral direct acting antiviral regimens. The combination of sofosbuvir and velpatasvir (SOF/VEL), two agents acting synergistically at different stages in the viral life cycle, has been evaluated in a broad range of clinical trials supporting its efficacy in complex and diverse patient populations. Following regulatory approval in 2016, SOF/VEL has been widely used as a safe, effective pangenotypic regimen in clinical practice. In this review, we will discuss the current preclinical, clinical and real-world data on SOF/VEL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelli Wuerth
- Vancouver Infectious Diseases Centre, Vancouver, BC V6Z2C7, Canada
| | - Tianna Magel
- Vancouver Infectious Diseases Centre, Vancouver, BC V6Z2C7, Canada
| | - Brian Conway
- Vancouver Infectious Diseases Centre, Vancouver, BC V6Z2C7, Canada
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Rahman M, Janjua NZ, Shafiq TKI, Chowdhury EI, Sarker MS, Khan SI, Reza M, Faruque MO, Kabir A, Anis AH, Azim T. Hepatitis C virus treatment in people who inject drugs (PWID) in Bangladesh. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2019; 74:69-75. [PMID: 31542689 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2019.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2019] [Revised: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Given the considerable social marginalization experienced by people who inject drugs (PWID), treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in this population presents unique challenges. This study assessed the feasibility of treating HCV infection with direct-acting antiviral (DAA) medications among PWID receiving harm reduction services from a Drop-in-Center in Dhaka, Bangladesh. METHODS In this prospective study conducted between December 2016 and May 2018, 200 PWID with either recent injecting drug use (i.e., within the previous two months) or a history of injecting drug use and are currently receiving opioid substitution therapy were recruited. Blood was collected to conduct relevant laboratory tests. Eligible PWID who tested positive for HCV RNA (n = 55), were provided daily daclatasvir (60 mg) and sofosbuvir (400 mg) for 12 weeks after which adherence level, sustained virologic response (SVR), and reinfection were assessed. RESULTS At baseline, 40% (n = 79) of the 200 participants recruited to the study tested positive for antibodies to HCV and 34% (n = 68) had detectable HCV RNA in their blood. Of 55 eligible PWID who initiated treatment, 93% (n = 51) completed treatment while 87% (n = 48) were available for follow-up SVR assessment, all of whom achieved SVR. Thus, intent-to-treat SVR was 87% and the modified intent-to-treat SVR was 100% with one reinfection (4•2 cases per 100 person-years). Further, 75% (i.e., 41 out of the 55 participants) were at least 90% adherent to therapy. CONCLUSION Our findings strongly suggest that HCV treatment using sofosbuvir+daclatasvir for PWID enrolled in existing harm reduction programs in Bangladesh is feasible but may require additional interventions such as Opioid Substitution Therapy, intense follow up by outreach workers, and services and counselling provided by full time clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafizur Rahman
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), 68 Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmed Sarani, Mohakhali, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh.
| | - Naveed Zafar Janjua
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada; School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada; CIHR Canadian HIV Trials Network, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Tanveer Khan Ibne Shafiq
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), 68 Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmed Sarani, Mohakhali, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh
| | - Ezazul Islam Chowdhury
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), 68 Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmed Sarani, Mohakhali, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh
| | - Md Safiullah Sarker
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), 68 Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmed Sarani, Mohakhali, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh
| | - Sharful Islam Khan
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), 68 Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmed Sarani, Mohakhali, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh
| | - Masud Reza
- Infectious Diseases Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), 68 Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmed Sarani, Mohakhali, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh
| | | | | | - Aslam H Anis
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada; CIHR Canadian HIV Trials Network, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Tasnim Azim
- James P. Grant School of Public Health, BRAC University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
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Naggie S, Ramers CB. Sustained Virologic Response in People Who Inject Drugs and/or Who Are on Opioid Agonist Therapy: Is 90% Enough? Hepatol Commun 2019; 3:453-455. [PMID: 30976736 PMCID: PMC6442701 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Susanna Naggie
- Duke University School of MedicineDurhamNC
- Duke Clinical Research InstituteDurhamNC
| | - Christian B. Ramers
- Family Health Centers of San DiegoSan DiegoCA
- University of California, San Diego School of MedicineLa JollaCA
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