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Coyle CR, Gicquelais RE, Genberg BL, Astemborski J, Falade-Nwulia O, Kirk GD, Thomas DL, Mehta SH. Temporal trends in HCV treatment uptake and success among people who inject drugs in Baltimore, MD since the introduction of direct acting antivirals. Drug Alcohol Depend 2023; 253:111007. [PMID: 38456165 PMCID: PMC10917145 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2023.111007] [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] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Background Although hepatitis C virus (HCV) can be cured by direct acting antivirals (DAA), uptake is not well characterized for people who inject drugs (PWID). Methods Among 1,130 participants of a community-based cohort of PWID with chronic HCV, we longitudinally characterized HCV treatment uptake and cure early (2014-2016) and later (2017-2020). Results Cumulative HCV treatment uptake increased from 4% in 2014 to 68% in 2020 and the percent with HCV viremia declined from nearly 100% to 33%. Predictors of treatment uptake varied across periods. Age (incidence rate ratio [IRR] per 5-year increase: 1.28; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.15, 1.42), educational attainment (IRR for ≥ high school diploma: 1.31; 95% CI: 1.04, 1.66), HIV coinfection with suppressed viral load (IRR vs. HIV negative: 2.08; 95% CI: 1.63, 2.66) and alcohol dependence (IRR vs. no alcohol use: 0.63; 95% CI: 0.43, 0.91) were associated with treatment uptake in the early period, but not later. HIV coinfection with a detectable viral load (IRR vs. HIV negative: 0.46; 95% CI: 0.23, 0.95) and daily injecting (IRR: 0.46 vs. no injection; 95% CI: 0.27, 0.79) were significantly associated with lower treatment uptake later. Homelessness was associated with significantly reduced likelihood of viral clearance in the late DAA era (IRR: 0.51; 95% CI: 0.30, 0.88). Conclusion Treatment uptake improved substantially in this cohort of PWID in the first five years of DAA availability with commensurate declines in viremia. Additional efforts are needed to treat those actively injecting and unstably housed in order to realize elimination goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catelyn R. Coyle
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States of America
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States of America
- Center for Observational and Real-World Evidence (CORE), Merck & Co, Inc, 351 N Sumneytown Pike, North Wales, PA 19454, United States of America
| | - Rachel E. Gicquelais
- School of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 701 Highland Ave, Madison, WI 53705, United States of America
| | - Becky L. Genberg
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States of America
| | - Jacquie Astemborski
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States of America
| | - Oluwaseun Falade-Nwulia
- Division of Infectious Disease, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 733 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States of America
| | - Gregory D. Kirk
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States of America
- Division of Infectious Disease, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 733 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States of America
| | - David L. Thomas
- Division of Infectious Disease, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 733 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States of America
| | - Shruti H. Mehta
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States of America
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES We examined how patient perceptions of alcohol risk, provider discussions about alcohol, and treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) differed among HIV-HCV coinfected patients in primary care. METHODS Between April, 2016 and April, 2017, we conducted a screening survey with patients in an HIV primary care clinic in Seattle, Washington, who had chronic HCV coinfection or a history of chronic HCV infection who had successfully cleared their infection with treatment. RESULTS Of 225 participants, 84 (37%) were active drinkers (drank ≥2-4 times/mo in past 3 months). Of those with little to no use for ≥3 months, 65 (29%) were former drinkers with a history of alcohol use and 76 were abstainers with no such history. Former drinkers and abstainers were more likely than active drinkers to perceive that any drinking was unsafe (69% vs 58% vs 31%; P < 0.001). Former drinkers were more likely to report a physician's recommendation to stop drinking than active drinkers (63% vs 47%; P = 0.05). The great majority (87%) of former drinkers decided to stop or reduce drinking on their own (most often in response to a nonhealth life event) and only 13% acknowledged doing so on their doctor's prompting. HCV treatment was not associated with former or active drinking status. CONCLUSIONS Our findings underscore the importance of educating not only HIV-HCV patients about the effects of alcohol use but also HIV clinicians about delivering consistent counseling about alcohol avoidance. Understanding the reasons that HIV-HCV coinfected persons make changes in their alcohol use could drive novel interventions that reduce the negative consequences of drinking.
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Barré T, Marcellin F, Di Beo V, Delorme J, Rojas Rojas T, Mathurin P, Protopopescu C, Bailly F, Coste M, Authier N, Carrieri MP, Rolland B. Untreated alcohol use disorder in people who inject drugs (PWID) in France: a major barrier to HCV treatment uptake (the ANRS-FANTASIO study). Addiction 2020; 115:573-582. [PMID: 31595554 PMCID: PMC7027887 DOI: 10.1111/add.14820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Although people who inject drugs (PWID) are the core at-risk population in the hepatitis C virus (HCV) epidemic in industrialized countries, few initiate treatment. Alcohol use disorder (AUD), common within this population, has been identified as a barrier to HCV treatment uptake in the general population. We investigated whether the arrival of new and well-tolerated HCV treatments (direct-acting antivirals: DAA) has improved HCV treatment uptake in French PWID compared with former treatments (pegylated interferon-based treatments: Peg-IFN). DESIGN Using discrete-time Cox proportional hazards models based on exhaustive care delivery data, we tested for associations between AUD (defined by AUD-related long-term illness status, diagnosis coding during hospitalization and/or AUD pharmacological treatment) and first HCV treatment delivery, after adjusting for gender, age, complementary universal health cover, liver disease severity and type of opioid agonist therapy (OAT) received. Separate analyses were performed for 2012-13 (Peg-IFN era) and 2014-16 (DAA era). SETTING France. PARTICIPANTS All French people chronically HCV-infected who received OAT at least once during 2012-16 and were covered by the national health insurance (n = 24 831). MEASUREMENTS Incidence rate of HCV treatment uptake, hazard ratios associated with AUD and other covariates. FINDINGS Incidence rate (IR) of HCV treatment uptake per 100 person-years was 6.56, confidence interval (CI) = 6.30-6.84; and IR = 5.70, 95% CI = 5.51-5.89 for Peg-IFN-based treatment (2012-13) and DAA (2014-16), respectively. After multiple adjustment, people with AUD not receiving related medication had 30 and 14% lower Peg-IFN-based treatment and DAA uptake, respectively, than those without AUD [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.62-0.80 and HR = 0.86, 95% CI = 0.78-0.94]. No difference was observed between those treated for AUD and those without AUD. CONCLUSIONS Despite the benefits of direct-acting antiviral treatment, untreated alcohol use disorder appears to remain a major barrier to hepatitis C virus treatment access for people who inject drugs in France.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tangui Barré
- Aix Marseille Université, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de la Santé and Traitement de l'Information MédicaleMarseilleFrance,ORS PACA, Observatoire Régional de la Santé Provence‐Alpes‐Côte d'AzurMarseilleFrance
| | - Fabienne Marcellin
- Aix Marseille Université, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de la Santé and Traitement de l'Information MédicaleMarseilleFrance,ORS PACA, Observatoire Régional de la Santé Provence‐Alpes‐Côte d'AzurMarseilleFrance
| | - Vincent Di Beo
- Aix Marseille Université, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de la Santé and Traitement de l'Information MédicaleMarseilleFrance,ORS PACA, Observatoire Régional de la Santé Provence‐Alpes‐Côte d'AzurMarseilleFrance
| | - Jessica Delorme
- CHU Clermont‐Ferrand, Neuro‐Dol, Service de pharmacologie médicale, Centres addictovigilance et pharmacovigilanceUniversité Clermont AuvergneClermont‐FerrandFrance
| | - Teresa Rojas Rojas
- Aix Marseille Université, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de la Santé and Traitement de l'Information MédicaleMarseilleFrance,ORS PACA, Observatoire Régional de la Santé Provence‐Alpes‐Côte d'AzurMarseilleFrance
| | - Philippe Mathurin
- Service des maladies de l'appareil digestif, CHU LilleUniversité de LilleLilleFrance
| | - Camelia Protopopescu
- Aix Marseille Université, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de la Santé and Traitement de l'Information MédicaleMarseilleFrance,ORS PACA, Observatoire Régional de la Santé Provence‐Alpes‐Côte d'AzurMarseilleFrance
| | - François Bailly
- Service d'hépatologie et d'addictologie, Groupe hospitalier Nord, Hôpital de la Croix‐RousseLyonFrance
| | - Marion Coste
- Aix Marseille Université, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de la Santé and Traitement de l'Information MédicaleMarseilleFrance,ORS PACA, Observatoire Régional de la Santé Provence‐Alpes‐Côte d'AzurMarseilleFrance
| | - Nicolas Authier
- CHU Clermont‐Ferrand, Neuro‐Dol, Service de pharmacologie médicale, Centres addictovigilance et pharmacovigilanceUniversité Clermont AuvergneClermont‐FerrandFrance
| | - Maria Patrizia Carrieri
- Aix Marseille Université, INSERM, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques and Sociales de la Santé and Traitement de l'Information MédicaleMarseilleFrance,ORS PACA, Observatoire Régional de la Santé Provence‐Alpes‐Côte d'AzurMarseilleFrance
| | - Benjamin Rolland
- Service Universitaire d'Addictologie de Lyon (SUAL), CH Le VinatierUniversité de LyonBronFrance
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Litwin AH, Jost J, Wagner K, Heo M, Karasz A, Feinberg J, Kim AY, Lum PJ, Mehta SH, Taylor LE, Tsui JI, Pericot-Valverde I, Page K. Rationale and design of a randomized pragmatic trial of patient-centered models of hepatitis C treatment for people who inject drugs: The HERO study. Contemp Clin Trials 2019; 87:105859. [PMID: 31669450 PMCID: PMC7261375 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2019.105859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although people who inject drugs (PWID) having the highest incidence and prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in the US, HCV treatment is rarely provided to PWID due to assumptions about poor adherence and reinfection risk. As direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) have achieved sustained virologic response (SVR) rates of 95% or more, evidence-based strategies are urgently needed to demonstrate real-world effectiveness in marginalized patient populations such as PWID. The objectives of this study are: 1) to determine whether either of two patient-centered treatment models - patient navigation (PN) or modified directly observed therapy (mDOT) - results in more forward movement along the HCV care cascade including treatment initiation, adherence, and SVR; 2) using quantitative and qualitative methods, to understand factors associated with lack of treatment uptake, poor adherence (<80%), failure to achieve SVR, DAA resistance, and HCV reinfection. METHODS The HERO study is a multi-site, pragmatic randomized clinical trial conducted in eight states where 754 HCV-infected PWID were randomly assigned to either PN or mDOT. CONCLUSIONS This study addresses an urgent need for timely and accurate information on optimal models of care to promote HCV treatment initiation, adherence, treatment completion and SVR among PWID, as well as rates and factors associated with reinfection and resistance after treatment. This clinical trial has the potential to provide valuable information on how to reduce the burden of the HCV epidemic in PWID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alain H Litwin
- Clemson University School of Health Research, Clemson, SC, USA; Department of Medicine, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Greenville, SC, USA; Department of Medicine, Prisma Health, Greenville, SC, USA.
| | - John Jost
- Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Katherine Wagner
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Moonseong Heo
- Department of Public Health Sciences, College of Behavioral, Social, and Health Sciences, Clemson University Clemson, SC, USA
| | | | - Judith Feinberg
- Department of Behavioral Medicine & Psychiatry and Department of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Arthur Y Kim
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Paula J Lum
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Shruti H Mehta
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Lynn E Taylor
- College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, CODAC Behavioral Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Judith I Tsui
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Irene Pericot-Valverde
- Clemson University School of Health Research, Clemson, SC, USA; Department of Medicine, Prisma Health, Greenville, SC, USA
| | - Kimberly Page
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA
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Starbird LE, Han HR, Sulkowski MS, Budhathoki C, Reynolds NR, Farley JE. Care2Cure: A randomized controlled trial protocol for evaluating nurse case management to improve the hepatitis C care continuum within HIV primary care. Res Nurs Health 2018; 41:417-427. [PMID: 30152537 DOI: 10.1002/nur.21903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2018] [Accepted: 07/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Co-infection with HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV) results in a threefold increase in relative risk of progression to end stage liver disease and cirrhosis compared to HCV alone. Although curative treatments exist, less than one quarter of people with HCV are linked to care, and even fewer have received treatment. The Care2Cure study is a single-blinded, randomized controlled trial to improve the HCV care continuum among people co-infected with HIV. This ongoing study was designed to test whether a nurse case management intervention can (i) improve linkage to HCV care and (ii) decrease time to HCV treatment initiation among 70 adults co-infected with HIV who are not engaged in HCV care. The intervention is informed by the Andersen Behavioral Model of Health Services Use and consists of nurse-initiated referral, strengths-based education, patient navigation, appointment reminders, and care coordination for drug-drug interactions in the setting of HIV primary care. Validated instruments are used to measure participant characteristics including HCV knowledge, substance use, and depression. The primary outcome is linkage to HCV care (yes/no) within 60 days. In this protocol paper, we describe the first clinical trial to examine the effects of a nurse case management intervention to improve the HCV care continuum among people co-infected with HIV/HCV in the era of all-oral HCV treatment. We describe our work in progress, challenges encountered, and strategies to engage this hard-to-reach population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura E Starbird
- Department of Community and Public Health, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Hae-Ra Han
- Department of Community and Public Health, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Mark S Sulkowski
- Divisions of Infectious Diseases and Gastroenterology/Hepatology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Chakra Budhathoki
- Department of Acute and Chronic Care, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Nancy R Reynolds
- Department of Community and Public Health, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Jason E Farley
- Department of Community and Public Health, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland
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Hepatitis C care continuum and associated barriers among people who inject drugs in Chennai, India. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2018; 57:51-60. [PMID: 29679811 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2018.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2017] [Revised: 03/05/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known regarding barriers to hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment among people who inject drugs (PWID) in low-resource settings, particularly in the era of direct-acting antiviral therapies. METHODS Between March, 2015-August, 2016, a cross-sectional survey was administered to community-based PWID in Chennai, India to examine the HCV care continuum and associated barriers. Adjusted prevalence ratios (APR) were estimated by multivariable Poisson regression with robust variance. RESULTS All participants were male (n = 541); 152 participants had HCV mono-infection and 61 participants had HIV/HCV co-infection. Only one HCV mono-infected and one HIV/HCV co-infected participant was linked to HCV care. Overall, there was moderate knowledge of HCV disease but poor knowledge of HCV treatment. Higher total knowledge scores were negatively associated with HIV/HCV co-infection (vs. HCV mono-infection), though this was not statistically significant in adjusted analysis (APR = 0.71 [95%CI = 0.47-1.06]). Participants ≥45 years (APR = 0.73 [95%CI = 0.58-0.92]) and participants with HIV/HCV co-infection (APR = 0.64 [95%CI = 0.47-0.87]) were less willing to take weekly interferon injections for 12 weeks. Willingness to undergo HCV treatment improved with decreasing duration of therapy, higher perceived efficacy, and use of pills vs. interferon, though willingness to use interferon improved with decreasing duration of therapy. Most participants preferred daily visits to a clinic for HCV treatment versus receiving a month's supply. Participants ≥45 years (vs. <45 years; APR = 0.70 [95%CI = 0.56-0.88]) and participants with HIV/HCV co-infection (APR = 0.75 [95%CI = 0.57-0.98]) were less likely to intend on seeking HCV care. Common reasons for not having already seen a provider for HCV treatment differed by HIV status, and included low perceived need for treatment (HCV-mono-infected), competing money/health priorities and costs/fears about treatment (HIV/HCV-co-infected). CONCLUSION Residual gaps in HCV knowledge and continuing negative perceptions related to interferon-based therapy highlight the need to scale-up educational initiatives. Readiness for HCV treatment was particularly low among HIV/HCV co-infected and older PWID, emphasizing the importance of tailored treatment strategies.
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Jordan AE, Perlman DC, Reed J, Smith DJ, Hagan H. Patterns and Gaps Identified in a Systematic Review of the Hepatitis C Virus Care Continuum in Studies among People Who Use Drugs. Front Public Health 2017; 5:348. [PMID: 29326922 PMCID: PMC5741609 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2017.00348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Systematic reviews are useful for synthesizing data on various health conditions and for identifying gaps in available data. In the US, the main risk group for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is people who use drugs (PWUD); as a group, PWUD have the highest prevalence of chronic HCV. While the care continuum construct has been increasingly applied to studies of HCV care among PWUD, what constitutes the steps in an HCV care continuum is not standardized. We sought to examine the range of HCV care continuum outcomes that studies reported on, to identify gaps in the literature, and to develop strategies that allowed for valuable syntheses of care continuum data. Methods We conducted searches of electronic databases for published literature. Reports were eligible if they provided original data from 1990 to 2016 from the US, presented data on one or more HCV care continuum outcomes, and provided outcome data on PWUD as a distinct group. Results A total of 313 full-text reports were assessed for eligibility. Of 212 potentially eligible reports, 32 (15.1%) did not present outcomes for PWUD separately from those who were non-PWUD. Among 101 eligible reports, a total of 166 care continuum outcomes were extracted; outcomes could be grouped into three categories that represent the HCV care continuum: testing (39.8%, n = 66/166); linkage to care (16.9%, n = 28/166); and treatment (43.4%, n = 72/166). Seventy-four reports (73.3%, n = 74/101) presented data on only one step. Linkage to care occurred variably after only antibody, or after antibody and viral load (VL) testing. Six (5.9%, n = 6/101) reports presented data on all three steps. Conclusion Reports examined a variety of HCV care continuum outcomes that could be grouped into the three steps of testing, linkage to care, and treatment. The application of this care continuum model would facilitate subsequent data synthesis for program comparison and public health evaluation. Given the two-step nature of HCV testing, analyses also need to account for variation in whether linkage to care occurred after antibody testing or after sequential antibody and VL testing. Additional data are needed on the progression of PWUD through the entire care continuum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashly E Jordan
- Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York University, New York, NY, United States.,Center for Drug Use and HIV Research New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - David C Perlman
- Center for Drug Use and HIV Research New York, New York, NY, United States.,Icahn School of Medicine, Mount Sinai Beth Israel, New York, NY, United States
| | - Jennifer Reed
- Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Daniel J Smith
- Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Holly Hagan
- Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York University, New York, NY, United States.,Center for Drug Use and HIV Research New York, New York, NY, United States
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Perlman DC, Jordan AE. Considerations for the Development of a Substance-Related Care and Prevention Continuum Model. Front Public Health 2017; 5:180. [PMID: 28770195 PMCID: PMC5513894 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2017.00180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2017] [Accepted: 07/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
There are significant gaps in the identification and engagement in care and prevention services of people who use illicit substances. Care continuum models have proven to be useful tools in the evaluation of care for HIV and other conditions; numerous issues in substance-related care and prevention resemble those identified in other continua models. Systems of care for substance misuse and substance use disorders (SUDs) can be viewed as consisting of a prevention and care continuum, reflecting incidence and prevalence of substance misuse and SUDs, screening and identification, medical and psychosocial evaluation for treatment, engagement in evidence-based treatment, treatment retention, relapse prevention, timeliness of step completion, and measures of overall and substance use-related specific morbidity and mortality. Care and prevention continuum models could potentially be applied at program, local, regional, state, and national levels. We discuss important lessons that can be drawn from applications of continuum models in other fields. The development and use of a substance-related care and prevention continuum may yield significant patient care, program evaluation and improvement, and population-level benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- David C. Perlman
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Mount Sinai Beth Israel, New York, NY, United States
- Center for Drug Use and HIV Research, New York, NY, United States
| | - Ashly E. Jordan
- Center for Drug Use and HIV Research, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
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Engagement in Care of High-Risk Hepatitis C Patients with Interferon-Free Direct-Acting Antiviral Therapies. Dig Dis Sci 2017; 62:1472-1479. [PMID: 28378246 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-017-4548-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The extent to which hepatitis C (HCV) treatment uptake is improved following introduction of interferon-free direct-acting antiviral (DAA) treatments is unknown. The purpose of this study was to determine HCV patient engagement and barriers to care for accessing DAA treatments in a real-world setting. METHODS Patients with HCV viremia at high risk for fibrosis were identified using the Veterans Affairs (VA) registry within San Diego's VA in October 2014. Patients not enrolled in HCV clinic were systematically contacted by letter and phone. Logistic regression was used to examine patient factors associated with subsequent engagement in care over 12-20 months. RESULTS In the local registry of 2089 patients, 481 were identified with high-risk fibrosis scores. Of those, 380 (79%) were eligible for antiviral treatment, and 178/380 (47%) patients were actively followed in clinic. The remaining 202/380 (53%) patients were never seen by a HCV clinic provider or lost to follow-up. Of these, 114/380 (30%) of the treatment-eligible cohort remained non-engaged in care following outreach. Compared with patients engaged in care, non-engaged patients were significantly more likely to have homelessness, COPD comorbidity, or active alcohol or/and drug use. Overall 74.4% of patients engaged in HCV clinic received antiviral treatment. CONCLUSIONS A significant portion of eligible HCV patients could not be engaged in treatment after a programmatic outreach effort. These data indicate that more sustained or innovative outreach efforts are needed in order to maximize treatment access, with specific interventions targeting those with unstable housing and active alcohol/substance use disorders.
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Fotiou A, Kanavou E, Antaraki A, Richardson C, Terzidou M, Kokkevi A. HCV/HIV coinfection among people who inject drugs and enter opioid substitution treatment in Greece: prevalence and correlates. HEPATOLOGY, MEDICINE AND POLICY 2016; 1:9. [PMID: 30288313 PMCID: PMC5918725 DOI: 10.1186/s41124-016-0017-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2016] [Accepted: 08/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background HCV/HIV coinfection in people who inject drugs is a public health issue, which presents a variety of challenges to healthcare providers. The determinants of HCV/HIV coinfection in this population are nonetheless not well known. The aim of the present study is to identify the factors associated with HCV/HIV coinfection in people who inject drugs and enter drug-related treatment. Methods Linked serological and behavioral data were collected from people who entered 38 opioid substitution treatment clinics in central and southern Greece between January and December 2013. Three mutually exclusive groups were defined based on the presence of HCV and HIV antibodies. Group 1 clients had neither infection, Group 2 had HCV but not HIV, and Group 3 had HCV/HIV coinfection. Multinomial logistic regression analyses identified differences between groups according to socio-demographic, drug use and higher-risk behavioral characteristics. Results Our study population consisted of 580 people who injected drugs in the past 12 months (79.8 % males, with median age 36 years).79.4 % were HCV and 15.7 % HIV infected. Of those with complete serological data in both HCV and HIV indicators, 20.4 % were uninfected, 64.0 % HCV monoinfected, and 14.9 % HCV/HIV coinfected. HCV infection with or without HIV coinfection was positively associated with living alone or with a spouse/partner without children, prior incarceration, drug injecting histories of ≥10 years, and syringe sharing in the past 12 months, and negatively associated with never having previously been tested for HCV. HCV/HIV coinfection, but not HCV infection alone, was positively associated with residence in urban areas (relative risk ratio [RRR] = 4.8, 95 % confidence interval [CI]: 1.7–13.7, p = 0.004) and averaging >3 injections a day in the past 30 days (RRR = 4.5, 95 % CI: 1.6–12.8, p = 0.005), and negatively associated with using a condom in the last sexual intercourse. Conclusions People who inject drugs and live in urban areas and inject frequently have higher risk of coinfection. Findings highlight the need for scaling-up needle and syringe programs in inner city areas and promoting access of this population to screening and treatment, especially in prisons. The protective role of living with parents and children could inform the implementation of indicated interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasios Fotiou
- 1Epidemiology Unit, Greek Reitox Focal Point of the EMCDDA, University Mental Health Research Institute, 2 Soranou tou Efesiou St., Athens, 11527 Greece
| | - Eleftheria Kanavou
- 1Epidemiology Unit, Greek Reitox Focal Point of the EMCDDA, University Mental Health Research Institute, 2 Soranou tou Efesiou St., Athens, 11527 Greece
| | - Argyro Antaraki
- 1Epidemiology Unit, Greek Reitox Focal Point of the EMCDDA, University Mental Health Research Institute, 2 Soranou tou Efesiou St., Athens, 11527 Greece
| | - Clive Richardson
- 2Panteion University of Social and Political Sciences, 136, Leoforos A. Siggrou, Kallithea, Athens 17671 Greece
| | - Manina Terzidou
- 1Epidemiology Unit, Greek Reitox Focal Point of the EMCDDA, University Mental Health Research Institute, 2 Soranou tou Efesiou St., Athens, 11527 Greece
| | - Anna Kokkevi
- 3University Mental Health Research Institute, 2 Soranou tou Efesiou St., Athens, 11527 Greece
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Hepatitis C Virus Testing and Treatment Among Persons Receiving Buprenorphine in an Office-Based Program for Opioid Use Disorders. J Subst Abuse Treat 2016; 66:54-9. [PMID: 26988423 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2016.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2015] [Revised: 01/11/2016] [Accepted: 01/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
AIMS In the United States, hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is primarily spread through injection drug use. There is an urgent need to improve access to care for HCV among persons with opioid use disorders who inject drugs. The purpose of our study was to determine the prevalence of HCV, patient characteristics, and receipt of appropriate care in a sample of patients treated with buprenorphine for their opioid use disorders in a primary care setting. METHODS This study used retrospective clinical data from the electronic medical record. The study population included patients receiving buprenorphine in the Office Based Opioid Treatment (OBOT) clinic within the adult primary medicine clinic at Boston Medical Center between October 2003 and August 2013 who received a conclusive HCV antibody (Ab) test within a year of clinic entry. We compared characteristics by HCV serostatus using Pearson's chi-square and provided numbers/percentages receiving appropriate care. RESULTS The sample comprised 700 patients. Slightly less than half of all patients (n=334, 47.7%) were HCV Ab positive, and were significantly more likely to be older, Hispanic or African American, have diagnoses of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or bipolar disorder, have prior heroin or cocaine use, and be HIV-infected. Among the 334 HCV Ab positive patients, 226 (67.7%) had detectable HCV ribonucleic acid (RNA) indicating chronic HCV infection; only 5 patients (2.21%) with chronic HCV infection ever initiated treatment. CONCLUSIONS Nearly half of patients (47.7%) receiving office-based treatment with buprenorphine for their opioid use disorder had a positive hepatitis C virus antibody screening test although initiation of HCV treatment was nearly non-existent (2.21%).
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Oramasionwu CU, Moore HN, Toliver JC. Barriers to hepatitis C antiviral therapy in HIV/HCV co-infected patients in the United States: a review. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2014; 28:228-39. [PMID: 24738846 PMCID: PMC4011402 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2014.0033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
This review synthesized the literature for barriers to HCV antiviral treatment in persons with HIV/HCV co-infection. Searches of PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and Web of Science were conducted to identify relevant articles. Articles were excluded based on the following criteria: study conducted outside of the United States, not original research, pediatric study population, experimental study design, non-HIV or non-HCV study population, and article published in a language other than English. Sixteen studies met criteria and varied widely in terms of study setting and design. Hepatic decompensation was the most commonly documented absolute/nonmodifiable medical barrier. Substance use was widely reported as a relative/modifiable medical barrier. Patient-level barriers included nonadherence to medical care, refusal of therapy, and social circumstances. Provider-level barriers included provider inexperience with antiviral treatment and/or reluctance of providers to refer patients for treatment. There are many ongoing challenges that are unique to managing this patient population effectively. Documenting and evaluating these obstacles are critical steps to managing and caring for these individuals in the future. In order to improve uptake of HCV therapy in persons with HIV/HCV co-infection, it is essential that barriers, both new and ongoing, are addressed, otherwise, treatment is of little benefit.
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13
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Barnawal SP, Niraula SR, Agrahari AK, Bista N, Jha N, Pokharel PK. Human immunodeficiency virus and hepatitis C virus coinfection in Nepal. Indian J Gastroenterol 2014; 33:141-5. [PMID: 24078191 DOI: 10.1007/s12664-013-0407-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2013] [Accepted: 08/27/2013] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The study aimed at finding prevalence, mode of transmission, and pattern of CD4 cell count among hepatitis C virus (HCV) coinfected human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive individuals in Nepal. METHODS This was a descriptive cross-sectional study carried out in three Volunteer Counseling and Testing clinics, one from Dharan and two from Kathmandu, Nepal. Three hundred and thirteen individuals were recruited. RESULTS Forty-two percent of HIV-infected persons had HCV coinfection. Significant associations with HIV and HCV coinfection were male gender (p <0.001) and injection drug use (IDU) (p <0.001). The mean CD4 cell count was significantly lower in HCV coinfected individuals, compared to those without coinfection, after 1.5 years (p =0.017), 2 years (p =0.0457), 3 years (p =0.011), and 3.5 years (p <0.001) of antiretroviral therapy. CONCLUSION HCV coinfection was common in HIV-infected individuals in Nepal and was associated with male gender, IDU, and lower CD4 counts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satish Prasad Barnawal
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, B P Koirala Institute of Health Sciences, Dharan, Nepal.
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14
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Yap L, Carruthers S, Thompson S, Cheng W, Jones J, Simpson P, Richards A, Thein HH, Haber P, Lloyd A, Butler T. A descriptive model of patient readiness, motivators, and hepatitis C treatment uptake among Australian prisoners. PLoS One 2014; 9:e87564. [PMID: 24586281 PMCID: PMC3937313 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0087564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2013] [Accepted: 12/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis C virus infection (HCV) has a significant global health burden with an estimated 2%–3% of the world's population infected, and more than 350,000 dying annually from HCV-related conditions including liver failure and liver cancer. Prisons potentially offer a relatively stable environment in which to commence treatment as they usually provide good access to health care providers, and are organised around routine and structure. Uptake of treatment of HCV, however, remains low in the community and in prisons. In this study, we explored factors affecting treatment uptake inside prisons and hypothesised that prisoners have unique issues influencing HCV treatment uptake as a consequence of their incarceration which are not experienced in other populations. Method and Findings We undertook a qualitative study exploring prisoners' accounts of why they refused, deferred, delayed or discontinued HCV treatment in prison. Between 2010 and 2013, 116 Australian inmates were interviewed from prisons in New South Wales, Queensland, and Western Australia. Prisoners experienced many factors similar to those which influence treatment uptake of those living with HCV infection in the community. Incarceration, however, provides different circumstances of how these factors are experienced which need to be better understood if the number of prisoners receiving treatment is to be increased. We developed a descriptive model of patient readiness and motivators for HCV treatment inside prisons and discussed how we can improve treatment uptake among prisoners. Conclusion This study identified a broad and unique range of challenges to treatment of HCV in prison. Some of these are likely to be diminished by improving treatment options and improved models of health care delivery. Other barriers relate to inmate understanding of their illness and stigmatisation by other inmates and custodial staff and generally appear less amenable to change although there is potential for peer-based education to address lack of knowledge and stigma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorraine Yap
- Justice Health Research Program, The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Susan Carruthers
- National Drug Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Sandra Thompson
- Combined Universities of Rural Health, Geraldton, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Wendy Cheng
- Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Jocelyn Jones
- National Drug Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Paul Simpson
- Justice Health Research Program, The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Alun Richards
- Offender Health Services, Queensland Health, Queensland, Australia
| | - Hla-Hla Thein
- Justice Health Research Program, The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Paul Haber
- Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Andrew Lloyd
- Inflammation and Infection Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Tony Butler
- Justice Health Research Program, The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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North CS, Hong BA, Adewuyi SA, Pollio DE, Jain MK, Devereaux R, Quartey NA, Ashitey S, Lee WM, Lisker-Melman M. Hepatitis C treatment and SVR: the gap between clinical trials and real-world treatment aspirations. Gen Hosp Psychiatry 2013; 35:122-8. [PMID: 23219917 DOI: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2012.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2012] [Revised: 11/05/2012] [Accepted: 11/06/2012] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Despite the remarkable improvements in pharmacologic treatment efficacy for hepatitis C (HCV) reported in published clinical trials, published research suggests that, in "real-world" patient care, these medical outcomes may be difficult to achieve. This review was undertaken to summarize recent experience in the treatment of HCV in clinical settings, examining the course of patients through the stages of treatment and barriers to treatment encountered. METHOD A comprehensive and representative review of the relevant literature was undertaken to examine HCV treatment experience outside of clinical trials in the last decade. This review found 25 unique studies with data on course of treatment and/or barriers to treatment in samples of patients with HCV not preselected for inclusion in clinical trials. RESULTS Results were examined separately for samples selected for HCV infection versus HCV/HIV coinfection. Only 19% of HCV-selected and 16% of HCV/HIV-coinfection selected patients were considered treatment eligible and advanced to treatment; even fewer completed treatment (13% and 11%, respectively) or achieved sustained virologic response (3% and 6%, respectively). Psychiatric and medical ineligibilities were the primary treatment barriers. CONCLUSION Only by systematically observing and addressing potentially solvable medical and psychosocial barriers to treatment will more patients be enrolled in and complete HCV therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol S North
- The VA North Texas Health Care System, Dallas, TX, USA.
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Low incidence of reinfection with the hepatitis C virus following treatment in active drug users in Amsterdam. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2012; 24:1302-7. [PMID: 22825643 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0b013e32835702a8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND More than two-thirds of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections are associated with injecting drug use. Despite the wide availability of standard treatment with pegylated interferon and ribavirin, active drug users (DU) have limited access to HCV treatment. Physicians may be reluctant to prescribe treatment because of the presumed high risk of reinfection. However, data on reinfection in treated DU remain scarce. METHODS Active DU with chronic HCV infection were treated in a multidisciplinary setting. After achieving a sustained virologic response, patients were tested at 6-12-monthly intervals for HCV RNA. To distinguish between relapse and reinfection, sequence and phylogenetic analyses were performed on the NS5B region of the HCV genome. The incidence of reinfection was calculated using person-time techniques. RESULTS From April 2005 to March 2010, 69 active DU treated for HCV had sufficient follow-up, median 2.5 years (interquartile range, 1.6-3.7). Sustained virologic response was achieved in 42 patients (61%). During follow-up, 41 patients remained HCV RNA-negative; of these, two patients died. During treatment, five out of 41 injected drugs, which increased to 11 out of 41 after the end of treatment. One case of reinfection was observed, followed by spontaneous clearance of the virus. The overall incidence was 0.76/100 person-years (95% confidence interval 0.04-3.73). For only those individuals reporting injecting drug use, the incidence was 3.42/100 person-years (95% confidence interval 0.17-16.90). CONCLUSION We report a low incidence of HCV reinfection following treatment in DU participating in a multidisciplinary programme. Active drug use, including injecting, should not preclude access to treatment for HCV.
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Taylor LE, Swan T, Mayer KH. HIV coinfection with hepatitis C virus: evolving epidemiology and treatment paradigms. Clin Infect Dis 2012; 55 Suppl 1:S33-42. [PMID: 22715212 PMCID: PMC3491862 DOI: 10.1093/cid/cis367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2012] [Accepted: 03/23/2012] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has become a major threat to the survival of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected persons in areas where antiretroviral therapy is available. In coinfection, viral eradication has been difficult to attain, and HCV therapy is underused. Novel therapies may be particularly beneficial for this population, yet studies lag behind those for HCV monoinfection. Increasingly, incident HCV among HIV-infected men who have sex with men is associated with sexual risk behavior further research should be performed to refine understanding of the causal mechanism of this association. The phenomenon of aggressive hepatic fibrogenesis when HIV infection precedes HCV acquisition requires longer-term observation to ensure optimal timing of HCV therapy. Medical management in coinfection will be improved by enhancing HCV detection, with annual serologic testing, screening with HCV RNA to detect acute infection, and HIV testing of HCV-infected individuals; by addressing HCV earlier in coinfected persons; and by universal consideration for HCV therapy. HCV drug trials in individuals coinfected with HIV should be expedited. HIV/HCV coinfection remains a growing and evolving epidemic; new developments in therapeutics and improved care models offer promise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynn E Taylor
- Department of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI 02906, USA.
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Wagner G, Osilla KC, Garnett J, Ghosh-Dastidar B, Bhatti L, Witt M, Goetz MB. Provider and patient correlates of provider decisions to recommend HCV treatment to HIV co-infected patients. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 11:245-51. [PMID: 22564797 DOI: 10.1177/1545109712444163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Despite low uptake of hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment among HIV co-infected patients, few studies have examined the factors that contribute to provider decisions to recommend treatment. Surveys of 173 co-infected patients and their primary care providers, as well as patient chart data, were collected at 3 HIV clinics in Los Angeles; 73% of the patients had any history of being recommended HCV treatment. Multivariate predictors of being offered treatment included being Caucasian, greater HCV knowledge, receiving depression treatment if depressed, and one's provider having a lower weekly patient load and more years working at the study site. These findings suggest that provider decisions to recommend HCV treatment are influenced by patient factors including race and psychosocial treatment readiness, as well as characteristics of their own practice and treatment philosophy. With changes to HCV treatment soon to emerge, further evaluation of factors influencing treatment decisions is needed to improve HCV treatment uptake.
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Federico CA, Hsu PC, Krajden M, Yoshida EM, Bremner KE, Weiss AA, Anderson FH, Krahn MD. Patient time costs and out-of-pocket costs in hepatitis C. Liver Int 2012; 32:815-25. [PMID: 22221745 DOI: 10.1111/j.1478-3231.2011.02722.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2011] [Accepted: 11/11/2011] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is associated with substantial costs to patients, their caregivers and society. AIMS We evaluated time costs (time spent seeking healthcare) and out-of-pocket (OOP) costs for patients with HCV and their caregivers. METHODS We measured costs for 738 HCV outpatients in a tertiary-care clinic using a patient-completed questionnaire. Time and OOP costs were compared across disease stages and sociodemographic categories. We examined the association between cost and disease stage using linear regression adjusting for age, gender, marital status, education, income and Index of Coexistent Disease (ICED) comorbidity score. Costs were expressed in 2007 Canadian dollars. RESULTS The mean annual time cost per patient was $2136 (98 h), and ranged from $281 (18 h) in individuals who had cleared the virus to $9416 in transplant recipients (420 h). Caregiver costs were reported in 10% of patients. The mean annual OOP cost per patient was $1326. Patients receiving active treatment and those with late-stage disease spent $2500-2800 per year on HCV-related healthcare, approximately 7% of their annual income. Patients who had cleared the virus had the lowest time and OOP costs. Low income and unemployed patients had higher costs. CONCLUSIONS In HCV-infected individuals, OOP and time costs represent a significant economic burden and fall disproportionately upon those least able to afford them. The lower cost burden among those who were successfully treated suggests that wider use of antiviral therapy may reduce economic burden in addition to improving health outcomes.
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Cifuentes C, Mira JA, Vargas J, Neukam K, Escassi C, García-Rey S, Gilabert I, González-Monclova M, Bernal S, Pineda JA. [Prevalence of hepatitis virus infection markers in HIV-infected patients in Southern Spain]. Enferm Infecc Microbiol Clin 2012; 30:452-7. [PMID: 22541340 DOI: 10.1016/j.eimc.2011.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2011] [Revised: 11/10/2011] [Accepted: 12/22/2011] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine: (a) The prevalence of active infection by the hepatitis C virus (HCV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) in HIV-infected patients, as well as previous exposure to hepatitis A virus (HAV), HBV and HCV. (b) The proportion of patients who have been vaccinated against HAV and/or HBV. (c) The HCV genotype distribution and the percentage of patients who have started treatment against HCV infection. METHODS All HIV-infected patients who attended the Infectious Diseases Unit of a tertiary care hospital in Southern Spain between September 2008 and February 2009 were included in a prospective cross-sectional study. RESULTS A total of 520 patients were included. Three hundred and fifty-eight (69%) patients had positive HCV antibody, while 71% of them showed detectable HCV-RNA. The HCV genotype distribution was: 153 (62%) genotype 1, 49 (20%) genotype 3, and 45 (18%) genotype 4. One hundred and thirteen (36.5%) subjects had received treatment against HCV. The prevalence of active HBV infection was 4.4%, while the exposure to HBV was 54.8%. Four hundred and thirty-seven (84%) patients had positive markers of infection of HAV. Of the patients eligible to be vaccinated, 25.6% and 22.3% patients were vaccinated against HAV and HBV, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The current prevalence of active HCV infection remains high in our area. There were no changes in the HCV genotype distribution. The number of patients with indication for HBV and HAV vaccination and receive these vaccines is low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celia Cifuentes
- Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas y Microbiología, Hospital Universitario de Valme, Sevilla, España
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Leggio L, Ferrulli A, Zambon A, Caputo F, Kenna G, Swift R, Addolorato G. Baclofen promotes alcohol abstinence in alcohol dependent cirrhotic patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Addict Behav 2012; 37:561-4. [PMID: 22244707 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2011.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2011] [Accepted: 12/19/2011] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and alcoholic liver disease (ALD), either alone or in combination, count for more than two thirds of all liver diseases in the Western world. There is no safe level of drinking in HCV-infected patients and the most effective goal for these patients is total abstinence. Baclofen, a GABA(B) receptor agonist, represents a promising pharmacotherapy for alcohol dependence (AD). Previously, we performed a randomized clinical trial (RCT), which demonstrated the safety and efficacy of baclofen in patients affected by AD and cirrhosis. The goal of this post-hoc analysis was to explore baclofen's effect in a subgroup of alcohol-dependent HCV-infected cirrhotic patients. Any patient with HCV infection was selected for this analysis. Among the 84 subjects randomized in the main trial, 24 alcohol-dependent cirrhotic patients had a HCV infection; 12 received baclofen 10mg t.i.d. and 12 received placebo for 12-weeks. With respect to the placebo group (3/12, 25.0%), a significantly higher number of patients who achieved and maintained total alcohol abstinence was found in the baclofen group (10/12, 83.3%; p=0.0123). Furthermore, in the baclofen group, compared to placebo, there was a significantly higher increase in albumin values from baseline (p=0.0132) and a trend toward a significant reduction in INR levels from baseline (p=0.0716). In conclusion, baclofen was safe and significantly more effective than placebo in promoting alcohol abstinence, and improving some Liver Function Tests (LFTs) (i.e. albumin, INR) in alcohol-dependent HCV-infected cirrhotic patients. Baclofen may represent a clinically relevant alcohol pharmacotherapy for these patients.
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Lekas HM, Siegel K, Leider J. Challenges facing providers caring for HIV/HCV-coinfected patients. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2012; 22:54-66. [PMID: 21825278 PMCID: PMC4323265 DOI: 10.1177/1049732311418248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Despite the high prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection among injection drug users also infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and the synergistic adverse effect of the two diseases on patients' health and survival, research on the clinical management of these patients and particularly the low uptake of HCV therapy is limited. We conducted qualitative interviews with 17 HIV providers from two urban public hospitals. We discovered that the limitations of the current state of medical knowledge, the severe side effects of HIV and HCV therapies, and the psychosocial vulnerability of HIV/HCV-coinfected patients combined with their resistance to becoming informed about HCV posed significant challenges for providers. To contend with these challenges, providers incorporated key dimensions of patient-centered medicine in their practice, such as considering their patients' psychosocial profiles and the meaning patients assign to being coinfected, and finding ways to engage their patients in a therapeutic alliance.
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Abstract
This study evaluated a cumulative and syndromic relationship among commonly co-occurring vulnerabilites (homelessness, incarceration, low-income, residential transition) in association with HIV-related risk behaviors among 635 low-income women in Baltimore. Analysis included descriptive statistics, logistic regression, latent class analysis and latent class regression. Both methods of assessing multidimensional instability showed significant associations with risk indicators. Risk of multiple partners, sex exchange, and drug use decreased significantly with each additional domain. Higher stability class membership (77%) was associated with decreased likelihood of multiple partners, exchange partners, recent drug use, and recent STI. Multidimensional social vulnerabilities were cumulatively and synergistically linked to HIV risk behavior. Independent instability measures may miss important contextual determinants of risk. Social stability offers a useful framework to understand the synergy of social vulnerabilities that shape sexual risk behavior. Social policies and programs aiming to enhance housing and overall social stability are likely to be beneficial for HIV prevention.
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Orwat J, Saitz R, Tompkins CP, Cheng DM, Dentato MP, Samet JH. Substance abuse treatment utilization among adults living with HIV/AIDS and alcohol or drug problems. J Subst Abuse Treat 2011; 41:233-42. [PMID: 21700412 PMCID: PMC3634563 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsat.2011.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2010] [Revised: 04/15/2011] [Accepted: 04/15/2011] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
This is a prospective cohort study to identify factors associated with receipt of substance abuse treatment (SAT) among adults with alcohol problems and HIV/AIDS. Data from the HIV Longitudinal Interrelationships of Viruses and Ethanol study were analyzed. Generalized estimating equation logistic regression models were fit to identify factors associated with any service utilization. An alcohol dependence diagnosis had a negative association with SAT (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.36, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] = 0.19-0.67), as did identifying sexual orientation other than heterosexual (AOR = 0.46, CI = 0.29-0.72) and having social supports that use alcohol/drugs (AOR = 0.62, CI = 0.45-0.83). Positive associations with SAT include presence of hepatitis C antibody (AOR = 3.37, CI = 2.24-5.06), physical or sexual abuse (AOR = 2.12, CI = 1.22-3.69), social supports that help with sobriety (AOR = 1.92, CI = 1.28-2.87), homelessness (AOR = 2.40, CI = 1.60-3.62), drug dependence diagnosis (AOR = 2.64, CI = 1.88-3.70), and clinically important depressive symptoms (AOR = 1.52, CI = 1.08-2.15). While reassuring that factors indicating need for SAT among people with HIV and alcohol problems (e.g., drug dependence) are associated with receipt, nonneed factors (e.g., sexual orientation, age) that should not decrease likelihood of receipt of treatment were identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Orwat
- Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
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Abstract
In developed nations, the majority of new HCV infections are acquired by injection drug users. Acute HCV infection is generally asymptomatic and is followed by spontaneous viral clearance in approximately 25% of individuals. However, given the asymptomatic nature of infection and difficulties in identifying and following those at risk of acquiring infection, our knowledge of treatment for acute HCV infection has been hampered. Much of what is known about the timing, optimal regimen and duration of therapy comes from small, prospective, observational studies and randomized, controlled trials in selected populations. Furthermore, data on the treatment of acute HCV infection among injection drug users and patients co-infected with HCV and HIV are limited. Genetic testing for variations in IL28B may provide an additional diagnostic tool for the optimal management and treatment of acute HCV infection. This Review highlights current knowledge of the epidemiology, diagnosis, natural history and treatment of acute HCV infection, including proposed recommendations for the assessment and treatment of this infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Grebely
- Viral Hepatitis Clinical Research Program, National Center in HIV Epidemiology and Clinical Research, University of New South Wales, Corner Boundary and West Streets, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia.
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Angeli E, Mainini A, Meraviglia P, Schiavini M, Ricci E, Giorgi R, Gubertini G, Rizzardini G. Eligibility and feasibility of the treatment of chronic hepatitis C in a Cohort of Italian HIV-positive patients at a single HIV reference center. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2011; 25:295-301. [PMID: 21457054 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2010.0342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis C is frequent and aggressive among HIV-positive patients; evaluation for anti-hepatitis C virus (HCV)-specific therapy is mandatory, but it has many limitations, due to efficacy, tolerability but also applicability. The objective of our retrospective analysis was to evaluate the eligibility and feasibility of anti-HCV therapy in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients followed at the II Department of Infectious Diseases, L. Sacco Hospital, Milan, Italy, from 2000 to March 2010. In our database, 545 HIV/HCV-coinfected patients were present, representing 40% of our whole HIV population, and 421 included in the analysis. One hundred twenty-four patients were excluded because of loss to follow-up (81) or deceased (43). Forty-eight patients spontaneously cleared HCV during follow-up (11%). Ninety-nine patients received anti-HCV therapy (26%), while the majority was excluded for several reasons (mainly concomitant diseases and low CD4(+) cell count). Globally, we found that in at least one third of untreated patients modifiable barriers to treatment were present. The access to therapy was significantly associated with the absence of history of intravenous drug use (p=0.01), a higher CD4(+) cells count at nadir (p=0.01), the presence of more than 6 HAART regimens (p=0.04), higher alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels (p<0.0001), HCV genotype 2 or 3 (p=0.005). In a multivariate analysis, the same factors remained significantly associated with anti-HCV therapy. In conclusion, the feasibility of anti-HCV therapy in HIV/HCV-coinfected patients, in our highly specialized center, is approximately 26%. Relative contraindications, such as substance abuses, mild and controlled concomitant conditions, and low compliance are common and modifiable in order to reconsider patients as suitable for therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. Angeli
- II Department of Infectious Diseases, L. Sacco Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - A. Mainini
- II Department of Infectious Diseases, L. Sacco Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - P. Meraviglia
- II Department of Infectious Diseases, L. Sacco Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - M. Schiavini
- II Department of Infectious Diseases, L. Sacco Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - E. Ricci
- I Department of Infectious Diseases, L. Sacco Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - R. Giorgi
- II Department of Infectious Diseases, L. Sacco Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - G. Gubertini
- II Department of Infectious Diseases, L. Sacco Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - G. Rizzardini
- II Department of Infectious Diseases, L. Sacco Hospital, Milan, Italy
- I Department of Infectious Diseases, L. Sacco Hospital, Milan, Italy
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Brown LS, Kritz S, Bini EJ, Louie B, Robinson J, Alderson D, Rotrosen J. Substance abuse treatment as HIV prevention: more questions than answers. J Natl Med Assoc 2010; 102:1183-91. [PMID: 21287899 PMCID: PMC3097534 DOI: 10.1016/s0027-9684(15)30773-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
This report examines associations between the availability of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-related health services in substance abuse treatment programs and characteristics of the programs and the patients they serve. In a cross-sectional, descriptive design and via a validated survey, program administrators within the National Drug Abuse Treatment Clinical Trials Network provided information on program characteristics, patient characteristics (rates of risky sexual and drug behaviors and HIV infection), and the availability of 31 different HIV-related health services. Of 319 programs, 84% submitted surveys. Service availability rates ranged from: 10% (pneumococcal vaccination) to 86% (drug testing) for the 6 HIV-related services offered to all patients, 13% (Pap smear for women) to 54% (tuberculin skin testing) for the 6 services offered to new patients, 2% (sterile injection equipment) to 64% (male condoms) for the 4 risk-reduction services, 37% (Pap smear for women) to 61% (tuberculin skin testing) for the 11 biological assessments offered to HIV-positive patients, and 33% (medical treatments) to 52% (counseling) for the 4 other services offered to HIV-positive patients. The availability of these HIV-related services was associated with clinical settings, the types of addiction treatment services, the rates of risky drug and sexual behaviors, and HIV infection rates among patients. Availability of such services was below published guidelines. While the results provide another basis for the infection-related prevention benefits of substance abuse treatment, the variability in the availability of HIV-related health care deserves further study and has health policy implications in determining how to utilize substance abuse treatment in reducing drug-related HIV transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence S Brown
- Addiction Research and Treatment Corp, 22 Chapel St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA.
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Suttajit S, Pilakanta S. Impact of depression and social support on nonadherence to antipsychotic drugs in persons with schizophrenia in Thailand. Patient Prefer Adherence 2010; 4:363-8. [PMID: 21049088 PMCID: PMC2962401 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s12412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2010] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about the effect of social support on nonadherence in persons with schizophrenia, especially in developing Asian countries where social support is considered to be imperative. Additionally, the role of depression as a mediator in the association between social support deficits and nonadherence has not been evaluated. METHODS This was a cross-sectional study conducted in 75 participants at a university hospital in Thailand. Logistic regression was used to determine whether depression and a deficit in social support were associated with nonadherence, and whether depression mediated this association. RESULTS There were strong relationships between nonadherence and major depressive episodes (odds ratio [OR] 9.5, confidence interval [CI] 2.3-38.9), living alone (OR 21.8, CI 3.5-143.0), and dissatisfaction with support from family (OR 10.0, CI 1.9-53.1). The OR of the association between social support deficits and nonadherence decreased by nearly one half after adjusting for depression. DISCUSSION Depression and social support deficits were significantly associated with nonadherence in persons with schizophrenia. Depression is important in mediating the association between social support deficits and nonadherence. Enhancing social support, as well as early detection and effective intervention for depression should be emphasized in interventions to improve adherence in persons with schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirijit Suttajit
- Correspondence: Sirijit Suttajit, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand 50200, Tel +66 82 441 9559, Fax +66 53 945426, Email
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Grebely J, Knight E, Ngai T, Genoway KA, Raffa JD, Storms M, Gallagher L, Krajden M, Dore GJ, Duncan F, Conway B. Reinfection with hepatitis C virus following sustained virological response in injection drug users. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2010; 25:1281-4. [PMID: 20594256 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1746.2010.06238.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Despite that 60-90% of injection drug users (IDUs) are infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, IDUs are often denied therapy based on concerns of reinfection following treatment. However, there are little data in this regard. We evaluated HCV re-infection following sustained virologic response (SVR) among HCV-infected IDUs having received HCV treatment in a multidisciplinary program. METHODS Following treatment, participants were encouraged to return at follow-up intervals of 1 year and illicit drug use histories were obtained. In those with SVR, HCV RNA testing by PCR was performed to determine if relapse or reinfection occurred. RESULTS Among 58 receiving HCV treatment between January 2002 and December 2006, 60% (35 of 58) achieved an SVR. Patients were followed for a median of 2.0 years following SVR (range, 0.4-5.0 years), with ongoing illicit and injection drug use reported in 54% (19 of 35) and 46% (16 of 35). Of the 35 with SVR, 28 remained HCV RNA negative during follow-up (80%), with four lost to follow-up and one dying of hepatocellular carcinoma and two cases of reinfection were observed (2 of 35). The rates of reinfection were 3.2 per 100 p-y (95% CI:0.4, 11.5) overall and 5.3 per 100 p-y (95% CI:0.6, 19.0) among those reporting injecting following SVR (n = 16). One of two participants with HCV re-infection spontaneously cleared virus following reinfection. CONCLUSION The rate of reinfection following treatment for HCV infection among current and former IDUs engaged in a multidisciplinary program is low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Grebely
- National Centre in HIV Epidemiology and Clinical Research, University of New South Wales, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia.
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30
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine S Brennan
- Louisiana State University Health Science Center, School of Public Health, New Orleans, LA, USA
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31
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Chen TY, Ding EL, Seage Iii GR, Kim AY. Meta-analysis: increased mortality associated with hepatitis C in HIV-infected persons is unrelated to HIV disease progression. Clin Infect Dis 2010; 49:1605-15. [PMID: 19842982 DOI: 10.1086/644771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 179] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is unclear whether coinfection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) increases mortality in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection during the era of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). With use of a meta-analysis, we estimated the effect of HCV infection on HIV disease progression and overall mortality in the pre-HAART and HAART eras. METHOD The PubMed and EMBASE databases were searched for studies published through 30 April 2008. Additional studies were identified from cited references. Studies reporting disease progression or mortality among HCV-HIV coinfected patients were selected. Cross-sectional studies, studies without HCV-negative control subjects, and studies involving children and/or patients who had undergone liver transplantation were excluded. Two authors reviewed articles and extracted data on the demographic characteristics of study populations and risk estimates. Meta-regression was used to explore heterogeneity. RESULTS Ten studies from the pre-HAART era and 27 studies from the HAART era were selected. In the pre-HAART era, the risk ratio for overall mortality among patients with HCV-HIV coinfection, compared with that among patients with HIV infection alone, was 0.68 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.53-0.87). In the HAART era, the risk ratio was 1.12 (95% CI, 0.82-1.51) for AIDS-defining events and 1.35 (95% CI, 1.11-1.63) for overall mortality among coinfected patients, compared with that among patients with HIV monoinfection. CONCLUSIONS HCV coinfection did not increase mortality among patients with HIV infection before the introduction of HAART. In contrast, in the HAART era, HCV coinfection, compared with HIV infection alone, increases the risk of mortality, but not the risk of AIDS-defining events. Future studies should determine whether successful treatment of HCV infection could reduce this excess risk of mortality in coinfected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting-Yi Chen
- Wayne State University, Detroit Medical Center, Detroit, MI 48201, USA.
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Jones DL, Waldrop-Valverde D, Gonzalez P, Mack A, Kumar AM, Ownby R, Weiss SM, Kumar M. Mental health in HIV seronegative and seropositive IDUs in South Florida. AIDS Care 2010; 22:152-8. [PMID: 19662550 PMCID: PMC5452984 DOI: 10.1080/09540120903039851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
About one-third of HIV-infected people in the USA have a history of injection-drug use. Injecting drugs are a primary vector for HIV transmission. Drug and alcohol use are significant contributors to sexual transmission of the virus. In South Florida, urban injection-drug users (IDUs) represent a substantial population at risk for infection. Substance use management in this group is critical. As part of a larger study of at-risk populations in South Florida, we examined mental health differences among IDUs (n=117), HIV seropositive IDUs (n=130), and HIV seronegative non-IDUs (n=169). We explored factors associated with depression and anxiety between groups, and found HIV seronegative and seropositive IDUs not receiving antiretroviral (ARV) treatment to have poorer overall mental health than both HIV seropositive participants on ARVs and non-IDU participants. Our data support systems enhancement to meet the various psychosocial and health care needs among IDUs and highlight the need for resource allocation to target community-based integrated mental health services in urban populations. In addition, our data underscore the need for primary and secondary HIV prevention interventions to address the drug-use risk behaviors among IDUs to reduce the likelihood of HIV infection and transmission in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah L Jones
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.
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33
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Cohen-Moreno R, Schiff M, Levitt S, Bar-Hamburger R, Strauss S, Neumark Y. Knowledge about Hepatitis-C among methadone maintenance treatment patients in Israel. Subst Use Misuse 2010; 45:58-76. [PMID: 20025439 DOI: 10.3109/10826080902864894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Ignorance about Hepatitis-C (HCV) among drug users, treatment staff, and policy makers thwarts treatment uptake and facilitates virus transmission. We assessed knowledge about HCV among methadone patients in Israel, where effective HCV-treatment is provided at low-cost within the national health insurance framework, yet few infected methadone patients are treated. In 2006, 512 patients in two methadone clinics in Israel were interviewed, of whom 53% were HCV-positive. The clinics were purposively selected from the 11 methadone clinics in the country. Respondents exhibited poor knowledge about HCV, particularly about diagnosis and treatment. Lesser-educated respondents were three times more likely to score low on HCV-knowledge compared to those with 12+ years of schooling (AOR = 2.97, 95% CI = 1.5-5.7. HCV-negative patients were also three-times more likely than HCV-positive patients to score low on the HCV-knowledge scale (Adjusted Odds Ratio = 3.0, 95% Confidence Interval = 1.9-4.7). Enhancing HCV-knowledge may help patients avoid becoming infected and infecting others, allay exaggerated fears about hepatitis, and facilitate HCV-treatment initiation among those infected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rinat Cohen-Moreno
- Braun School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Hebrew University-Hadassah, Jerusalem, Israel
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Kehler Curth N, Hansson LN, Storm F, Lazarus JV. Select Barriers to Harm-reduction Services for IDUs in Eastern Europe. Cent Eur J Public Health 2009; 17:191-7. [DOI: 10.21101/cejph.a3562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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35
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Bova C, Ogawa LF, Sullivan-Bolyai S. Hepatitis C treatment experiences and decision making among patients living with HIV infection. J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care 2009; 21:63-74. [PMID: 19853480 DOI: 10.1016/j.jana.2009.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2009] [Accepted: 07/16/2009] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C infection is a major problem for approximately 250,000 HIV-infected persons in the United States. Although HIV infection is well-controlled in most of this population, they suffer liver-associated morbidity and mortality. Conversely, hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment uptake remains quite low (15%-30%). Therefore, the purpose of this qualitative study was to explore HCV treatment experiences and decision making in adults with HIV infection. The study sample included 39 coinfected adults; 16 in the HCV-treated cohort (who were interviewed a maximum of 3 times) and 23 in the HCV-nontreatment cohort. Analysis of interviews identified 2 treatment barriers (fears and vicarious experiences) and 4 facilitating factors (experience with illness management, patient-provider relationships, gaining sober time, and facing treatment head-on). Analysis of these data also revealed a preliminary model to guide intervention development and theoretical perspectives. Ultimately, research is urgently needed to test interventions that improve HCV evaluation and treatment uptake among HIV-infected patients.
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Swan T, Curry J. Comment on the updated AASLD practice guidelines for the diagnosis, management, and treatment of hepatitis C: treating active drug users. Hepatology 2009; 50:323-4; author reply 324-5. [PMID: 19554546 DOI: 10.1002/hep.23077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Deiss RG, Rodwell TC, Garfein RS. Tuberculosis and illicit drug use: review and update. Clin Infect Dis 2009; 48:72-82. [PMID: 19046064 DOI: 10.1086/594126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Illicit drug users continue to be a group at high risk for tuberculosis (TB). Here, we present an updated review of the relationship between TB and illicit drug use, and we summarize more than a decade of new research. Drug users, and injection drug users in particular, have driven TB epidemics in a number of countries. The successful identification and treatment of TB among illicit drug users remain important components of a comprehensive TB strategy, but illicit drug users present a unique set of challenges for TB diagnosis and control. New diagnostic modalities, including interferon-gamma-release assays, offer potential for improved diagnosis and surveillance among this group, along with proven treatment strategies that incorporate the use of directly observed therapy with treatment for drug abuse. Special considerations, including coinfection with viral hepatitis and the rifampin-methadone drug interaction, warrant clinical attention and are also updated here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert G Deiss
- University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
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Tsui JI, Maselli J, Gonzales R. Sociodemographic trends in national ambulatory care visits for hepatitis C virus infection. Dig Dis Sci 2009; 54:2694-8. [PMID: 19104932 PMCID: PMC2778662 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-008-0659-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2008] [Accepted: 11/28/2008] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Poor and non-white patients are disproportionately infected with the hepatitis C virus (HCV). The objective of this research is to determine sociodemographic patterns of HCV-related ambulatory care visits over time. Data from the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NAMCS) and the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey-Outpatient (NHAMCS-OPD) for the years 1997-2005 were analyzed in 3-year intervals. Demographic and other variables were compared for each period, and multivariable logistic regression was performed to examine whether the likelihood of a visit being HCV-related (versus non-HCV) was independently associated with (1) race and/or (2) Medicaid status over time. The total number of HCV-related ambulatory visits more than doubled from 3,583,585 during the years 1997-1999 to 8,027,166 during 2003-2005. During this time, the proportion of non-whites and Medicaid recipients presenting for HCV-related visits approximately doubled (non-whites: 16% vs. 33%, P=0.04; Medicaid recipients: 10% vs. 25%, P=0.07). In 2003-2005, HCV-related visits were more than twice as likely to occur among non-white patients vs. white patients (OR=2.49; 95% CI: 1.60-3.86) and patients on Medicaid vs. non-Medicaid (3.49; 1.79-6.80). Our results show that HCV-associated ambulatory care visits are increasing, with a greater proportion of visits occurring among non-white patients and Medicaid recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith I. Tsui
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine/Boston Medical Center, 801 Massachusetts Ave, 2nd floor, Boston, MA 02118 USA
| | - Judith Maselli
- Department of Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Ralph Gonzales
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA USA
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Mehta SH, Genberg BL, Astemborski J, Kavasery R, Kirk GD, Vlahov D, Strathdee SA, Thomas DL. Limited uptake of hepatitis C treatment among injection drug users. J Community Health 2008; 33:126-33. [PMID: 18165889 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-007-9083-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 278] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
We characterized hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment knowledge, experience and barriers in a cohort of community-based injection drug users (IDUs) in Baltimore, MD. In 2005, a questionnaire on HCV treatment knowledge, experience and barriers was administered to HCV-infected IDUs. Self-reported treatment was confirmed from medical records. Of 597 participants, 71% were male, 95% African-American, 31% HIV co-infected and 94% were infected with HCV genotype 1; 70% were aware that treatment was available, but only 22% understood that HCV could be cured. Of 418 who had heard of treatment, 86 (21%) reported an evaluation by a provider that included a discussion of treatment of whom 30 refused treatment, 20 deferred and 36 reported initiating treatment (6% overall). The most common reasons for refusal were related to treatment-related perceptions and a low perceived need of treatment. Compared to those who had discussed treatment with their provider, those who had not were more likely to be injecting drugs, less likely to have health insurance, and less knowledgeable about treatment. Low HCV treatment effectiveness was observed in this IDU population. Comprehensive integrated care strategies that incorporate education, case-management and peer support are needed to improve care and treatment of HCV-infected IDUs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shruti H Mehta
- Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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40
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Response by Butt, Paterson, and McGuinness. West J Nurs Res 2008. [DOI: 10.1177/0193945907302965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Abstract
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a necessary, though not sufficient, cause of cervical cancer. Two vaccines have been developed that prevent two HPV types associated with 70% of cervical cancers. One of the vaccines (a quadrivalent vaccine) also prevents two HPV types associated with 90% of genital warts. Both HPV vaccines have shown very good efficacy and safety. This review summarizes the guidelines for use of the quadrivalent vaccine published by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, presents data on vaccine efficacy and safety, and gives an overview of the findings of cost-effectiveness studies. In addition, we summarize the research on the attitudes of parents and health care providers toward HPV vaccine and critically evaluate controversial and challenging issues surrounding HPV vaccination, including concerns about sexual disinhibition and potential obstacles to vaccine distribution and uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory D. Zimet
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Adolescent Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202
| | - Marcia L. Shew
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Adolescent Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202
| | - Jessica A. Kahn
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio 45229
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German D, Davey MA, Latkin CA. Residential transience and HIV risk behaviors among injection drug users. AIDS Behav 2007; 11:21-30. [PMID: 17486437 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-007-9238-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2006] [Accepted: 04/16/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Housing instability has been linked to HIV risk behaviors. Many studies have focused on the implications of one's housing structure or lack thereof. This study focuses on residential transience as an additional dimension of housing instability. Specifically, we assessed the associations between transience and four HIV risk behaviors. Transience was defined as moving twice or more in the past six months. Multivariate analyses of a sample of current injectors (n = 807) indicated that transience had an independent effect on HIV risk behaviors. Transient individuals were more likely to share needles and go to a shooting gallery than non-transient individuals. Transience was not associated with exchanging sex or having multiple sex partners when homelessness was included in the models. Further examination of the association between housing and HIV should consider the role of transience. Interventions that promote housing stability among IDUs and address HIV risk during times of instability are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle German
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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Brown LS, Kritz S, Goldsmith RJ, Bini EJ, Robinson J, Alderson D, Rotrosen J. Health services for HIV/AIDS, HCV, and sexually transmitted infections in substance abuse treatment programs. Public Health Rep 2007; 122:441-51. [PMID: 17639646 PMCID: PMC1888517 DOI: 10.1177/003335490712200404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The National Drug Abuse Treatment Clinical Trials Network conducted this study to determine the availability of and factors associated with infection-related health services in substance abuse treatment settings. In a cross-sectional descriptive design, state policies, reimbursement for providers, state level of priority, and treatment program characteristics were studied via written surveys of administrators of substance abuse treatment programs and of state health and substance abuse departments. Data from health departments and substance abuse agencies of 48 states and from 269 substance abuse treatment programs revealed that human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome-related services are more frequent than hepatitis C virus or sexually transmitted infection-related services, and that nonmedical services are more frequent than medical services. While the availability of infection-related health services is associated with medical staffing patterns, addiction pharmacotherapy services, and state priorities, reimbursement was the most significant determining factor. These findings suggest that greater funding of these health services in substance abuse treatment settings, facilitated by supportive state policies, represents an effective response to the excess morbidity and mortality of these substance use-related infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence S Brown
- Addiction Research and Treatment Corporation, 22 Chapel St., Brooklyn, NY 11201, USA.
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Reynolds GL, Fisher DG, Jaffe A, Edwards J. Follow-up for medical care among drug users with hepatitis C. Eval Health Prof 2006; 29:355-66. [PMID: 17102060 DOI: 10.1177/0163278706296003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Prevalence of hepatitis C (HCV) in injection drug users (IDUs) is high and once HCV has been detected, follow-up medical care is essential. Six hundred and one current and former IDUs who tested positive for HCV antibodies received referrals for medical care. Twenty-four percent (147) of participants returned to be interviewed regarding their medical follow-ups. Of these, only 42% (61) had sought additional medical care in the form of further liver or blood tests or liver ultrasound. Four variables predicted seeking medical care: (a) ever being in residential drug treatment, (b) ever trading sex for money, (c) self-reported homelessness, and (d) living in one's own apartment or house. Having income from a job was inversely associated with seeking medical care. Knowledge of HCV infection alone does not mean that IDUs will seek medical care. Additional education concerning medical care and treatment options are needed to address IDU needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace L Reynolds
- Center for Behavioral Research and Services, California State University, Long Beach, CA 90813, USA.
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Abstract
Coinfection with HIV hastens the progression of liver disease in persons with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. As mortality directly due to HIV continues to decrease among persons who are HIV-positive, coinfection with HCV has emerged as a leading cause of death. There is increasing attention to the need to actively treat HCV infection in HIV/HCV coinfected patients. Current HCV treatment with pegylated interferon and ribavirin achieves sustained viral response in up to 40% of coinfected patients but has numerous neuropsychiatric side effects. Providers are hesitant to begin HCV treatment in the coinfected population given the high prevalence of existing psychiatric illness, cognitive impairment, and substance use disorders. There is an urgent need for research into the psychiatric and behavioral predictors of HCV treatment adherence and virologic outcome, as well as into the optimal psychiatric management of the neuropsychiatric sequelae of HCV therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey J Weiss
- Department of Psychiatry, Mount Sinai School of Medicine,1160 Fifth Avenue, Box 1228, New York, NY 10029, USA.
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