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O'Sullivan M, Jones AM, Mourad A, Haddadin Y, Verma S. Excellent hepatitis C virus cure rates despite increasing complexity of people who use drugs: Integrated-Test-stage Treat study final outcomes. J Viral Hepat 2024; 31:66-77. [PMID: 38018328 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
Achieving hepatitic C virus (HCV) elimination requires linking people who use drugs (PWUD) into care. We report final direct-acting antivirals (DAAs)-based outcomes from the Integrated-Test-stage -Treat (ITTREAT) study. Project ITTREAT (2013-2021), based at an addiction centre, was a 'one-stop' service with innovative linkage to care strategies. Primary outcome was sustained virological response (SVR12) (intention to treat ITT) including whether individuals were recruited in first (period 1) versus last four (period 2 included the COVID-19 pandemic) years of the study. Number recruited were n = 765, mean age 40.9 ± 10.1 years, 78% males, history of current/past injecting drug use (IDU) and alcohol use being 77% and 90%, respectively. Prevalence of a positive HCV PCR was 84% with 19% having cirrhosis. Comparing those recruited in period 2 versus period 1, there was increasing prevalence of IDU, 90% versus 72% (p < .001); homelessness, 67% versus 50% (p < .001); psychiatric diagnosis, 84% versus 50% (p < .001); overdose history 71% versus 31% (p < .001), receiving opioid agonist treatment (OAT) 75% versus 52% (p < .001) and comorbidity 44% versus 25% (p < .001). Of those treated with DAAs (n = 272), ITT SVR rates were 86% (95% CI: 81%-90%), being similar in period 2 versus period 1. Predictors of non-SVR were receiving OAT (OR 0.33, 95% CI: 0.12-0.87, p = .025) and ≥80% adherence (OR 0.01, 95% CI: 0.003-0.041, p < .001). Reinfection rates period 2 versus period 1 (per 100 person-years) were 1.84 versus 1.70, respectively. In the treated cohort, mortality was 15%, being mostly drug-related. Despite increasing complexity of PWUD, high SVR12 rates are achievable with use of OAT and good adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret O'Sullivan
- University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust Brighton and Sussex University, Brighton, UK
| | | | - Adele Mourad
- University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust Brighton and Sussex University, Brighton, UK
- Brighton & Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
| | - Yazan Haddadin
- University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust Brighton and Sussex University, Brighton, UK
- Brighton & Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
| | - Sumita Verma
- University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust Brighton and Sussex University, Brighton, UK
- Brighton & Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
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2
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Hong C, Hoskin J, Berteau LK, Schamel JT, Wu ESC, King AR, Randall LA, Holloway IW, Frew PM. Violence Victimization, Homelessness, and Severe Mental Illness Among People Who Use Opioids in Three U.S. Cities. JOURNAL OF INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE 2023; 38:11165-11185. [PMID: 37462229 PMCID: PMC10466992 DOI: 10.1177/08862605231179720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
This study examined the associations between violence victimization, homelessness, and severe mental illness (SMI) among people who use opioids (PWUOs) in three U.S. cities. We analyzed data from a cross-sectional survey conducted from May 2019 to February 2020 across three study sites: Los Angeles, CA; Las Vegas, NV; and Atlanta, GA. We used multivariable regressions to examine how multiple victimizations and housing situation are associated with SMI. Based on K-6 scale, nearly half (44.2%) were screened positive for SMI. Meanwhile, 69.7% of the participants reported experiencing some kind of violence in their lifetime, and more than half (51.9%) reported experiencing recent violence (in the past 6 months). The most common form of lifetime violence was emotional (59.5%), followed by physical and intimate partner violence (IPV) (56.1 and 34.9%, respectively), and 34.9% of all participants reported experiencing multiple forms of victimization in the past 6 months. Participants who reported homelessness were more likely to report having experienced recent violence victimization (p < .001). In multivariable models, experiencing recent victimization was significantly associated with SMI (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.85, 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.46, 2.38]), as was homelessness (AOR = 1.57, 95% CI [1.15, 2.14]), after adjusting for study covariates. Among those with moderate and SMI (n = 927), only 22% were currently receiving mental health services, and those who reported having experienced any forms of violence in the past 6 months were more likely to utilize mental health services than those who had not experienced any recent violence victimization (25 vs. 17.9%, p < .05). To improve mental health and wellness among this high priority population, mental health facilities and syringe service programs may consider screening for experiences of violence and using trauma-informed mental health approaches. Harm reduction interventions must be responsive to the diverse individual and structural-level needs of PWUOs, especially those experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity. Holistic strategies and services are needed to meet the social and structural needs of this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenglin Hong
- UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jordan Hoskin
- State of California Department of Rehabilitation, Los Angeles, USA
| | | | - Jay T Schamel
- UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Adrian R King
- University of Nevada - School of Public Health/Population Health & Health Equity Initiative, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Laura A Randall
- University of Nevada - School of Public Health/Population Health & Health Equity Initiative, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Ian W Holloway
- UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Paula M Frew
- University of Nevada - School of Public Health/Population Health & Health Equity Initiative, Las Vegas, NV, USA
- Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA
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3
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Guerra-Veloz MF, Soliman R, Agarwal K. Is the UK set to be hepatitis C free? Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2023:1-3. [PMID: 37671933 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2023.2255751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Riham Soliman
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - Kosh Agarwal
- Institute of Liver Studies, King's College Hospital, London, UK
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Yee WL, Bowring A, Draper B, O'Keefe D, Htay H, Myint KT, Aung HWP, Win YY, Sein YY, Mary M, Lin A, Pedrana A, Hellard M. Patients' access to and acceptance of community-based hepatitis C testing and treatment in Myanmar: A mixed-method study. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0000902. [PMID: 37327249 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C (HCV) infection elimination in low- and middle-income countries requires decentralised HCV services to increase testing and linkage to care. The CT2 Study investigated patients' views of access to and acceptance of two community-based HCV care models in Myanmar using a mixed-methods approach. Point-of-care HCV testing and general practitioner-initiated HCV treatment were provided at two community clinics in Yangon, Myanmar-the Burnet Institute's (BI) clinic focused on people who inject drugs (PWID), and the Myanmar Liver Foundation's (MLF) clinic focused on people with liver-related diseases. Study staff administered quantitative questionnaires to 633 participants receiving anti-HCV antibody testing. Purposive sampling was used to recruit 29 participants receiving direct-acting antiviral treatment for qualitative interviews. Among participants completing quantitative questionnaires, almost all reported the clinic location was convenient (447/463, 97%), waiting time was acceptable (455/463, 98%), and HCV antibody and RNA testing methods were acceptable (617/632, 98% and 592/605, 97% respectively). Nearly all participants were satisfied with their clinic's services (444/463, 96%) and preferred same-day test results (589/632, 93%). BI clinic participants were more confident that they understood HCV antibody and RNA results; MLF clinic participants were more comfortable disclosing their risk behaviour to staff and had slightly higher satisfaction with the overall care, privacy and secure storage of their information. In qualitative interviews, participants reported that flexible appointment scheduling, short wait times and rapid return of results increased the clinic's accessibility. The simplified point-of-care testing and treatment procedures and supportive healthcare providers contributed to participants' acceptance of the HCV care model. This decentralised community-based HCV testing and treatment model was highly accessible and acceptable to CT2 participants. Prioritizing patient-centred care, rapid provision of results, flexible appointments and convenient clinic locations can promote accessible and acceptable services which may in turn help accelerate progress in reaching HCV elimination targets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Bridget Draper
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Daniel O'Keefe
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Hla Htay
- Burnet Institute, Yangon, Myanmar
| | | | | | | | - Yi Yi Sein
- Myanmar Liver Foundation, Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Mary Mary
- Myanmar Liver Foundation, Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Aung Lin
- Myanmar Liver Foundation, Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Alisa Pedrana
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Margaret Hellard
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
- Doherty Institute and School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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5
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Balsom CR, Farrell A, Kelly DV. Barriers and enablers to testing for hepatitis C virus infection in people who inject drugs - a scoping review of the qualitative evidence. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1038. [PMID: 37259073 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16017-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Injection drug use is the primary mode of transmission of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in the developed world and guidelines recommend screening individuals with current or history of injection drug use for HCV; however, the majority of those living with HCV in Canada are not aware of their positive status. This low level of HCV status awareness suggests that screening is not effective with current testing strategies. The aim of this review is to determine what barriers and enablers people who inject drugs (PWID) experience surrounding testing for HCV to help inform the development of an engaging testing strategy. METHODS Comprehensive literature searches were conducted using Medline, Embase and CINAHL in February 2021. Included studies investigated the barriers and enablers to testing for HCV in PWID and the experiences of PWID in testing for HCV. Studies were included if they were qualitative or mixed-methods design, involved people with current injection drug use or those with a history of injecting drugs, and were written in the English language. Studies were compared and common themes were coded and analyzed. RESULTS The literature search resulted in 1554 citations and ultimately nine studies were included. Common barriers included self-perception of low risk for HCV, fear of diagnosis, stigma associated with IV drug use and HCV, antipathy in relation to mainstream health care services, limited knowledge about HCV, lack of rapport with provider, lack of motivation or competing priority of drug use, and limited awareness of new treatment options. Common enablers to testing included increasing awareness of HCV testing and treatment and providing positive narratives around HCV care, positive rapport with provider, accessible testing options and individualized care. CONCLUSION While there has been some qualitative research on barriers and enablers to testing for HCV in PWID more research is needed to focus on this research question as a primary objective in order to provide more understanding from the participant's perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cathy R Balsom
- School of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Canada.
| | - Alison Farrell
- Health Sciences Library, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Canada
| | - Deborah V Kelly
- School of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Canada
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Bryce K, Smith C, Rodger A, Macdonald D. Falling treatment uptake in the hepatitis C care cascade is a growing threat to achieving elimination. J Viral Hepat 2023; 30:46-55. [PMID: 36197840 PMCID: PMC10091771 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Most high-income countries are not on track to achieve the World Health Organization hepatitis C elimination targets. As elimination programmes assess growing proportions of patients in community-based pathways, rates of treatment uptake may fall. We aimed to identify factors associated with DAA treatment uptake and measure changes in their prevalence over time. We performed a time-to-treatment analysis on 2728 patients approved for hepatitis C Direct-Acting Antiviral treatment in the North Central London region between January 2016 and October 2019. We investigated the association between treatment uptake and factors including assessment/treatment setting (hospital, drug service or prison), patient age, gender, injection drug use, harmful alcohol use, cirrhosis status and previous treatment. The likelihood of treatment uptake was reduced by three independent risk factors. These included assessment setting: prison-based or drug-service pathways (aHR 0.29 or 0.81 vs. hospital outpatient pathway, 95% CI 0.21-0.40 and 0.70-0.94 respectively, p < .001); being UK-born (aHR 0.89 vs. non-UK born, 0.82-0.98, p = .01); and history of harmful alcohol use (aHR 0.84 vs. no history, 0.72-0.99, p = .04). The average number of these risk factors for not starting treatment per patient increased over time (R2 = 0.66 p < .001). Independent of these, there was an additional 5% reduction in rate of treatment initiation in each successive year of the programme (aHR 0.95, 0.91-0.99, p = .02). In conclusion, disengagement from care before treatment uptake was found to be a growing threat to elimination. Despite provision of community-based test-to-cure pathways, there are persistent barriers to treatment uptake and these are increasing over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Bryce
- Institute for Global HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUK
- Royal Free London NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
| | - Colette Smith
- Institute for Global HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Alison Rodger
- Institute for Global HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUK
- Royal Free London NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
| | - Douglas Macdonald
- Royal Free London NHS Foundation TrustLondonUK
- Institute for Liver and Digestive HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUK
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Bar N, Bensoussan N, Rabinowich L, Levi S, Houri I, Ben-Ami Shor D, Shibolet O, Mor O, Weitzman E, Turner D, Katchman H. Barriers and Facilitators of Hepatitis C Care in Persons Coinfected with Human Immunodeficiency Virus. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:15237. [PMID: 36429957 PMCID: PMC9690547 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192215237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are often co-transmitted. Viral coinfection results in worse outcomes. Persons who inject drugs (PWIDs) face barriers to medical treatment, but HCV treatment is indicated and effective even with ongoing active drug use. We aimed to assess access to HCV care and treatment results in patients coinfected with HIV-HCV. This is a real-world retrospective single-center study of patients followed in the HIV clinic between 2002 and 2018. Linkage to care was defined as achieving care cascade steps: (1) hepatology clinic visit, (2) receiving prescription of anti-HCV treatment, and (3) documentation of sustained virologic response (SVR). Of 1660 patients with HIV, 254 with HIV-HCV coinfection were included. Only 39% of them achieved SVR. The rate limiting step was the engagement into hepatology care. Being a PWID was associated with ~50% reduced odds of achieving study outcomes, active drug use was associated with ~90% reduced odds. Older age was found to facilitate treatment success. Once treated, the rate of SVR was high in all populations. HCV is undertreated in coinfected young PWIDs. Further efforts should be directed to improve access to care in this marginalized population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nir Bar
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Tel Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6195001, Israel
| | - Noa Bensoussan
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Tel Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6195001, Israel
| | - Liane Rabinowich
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Tel Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6195001, Israel
| | - Sharon Levi
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Tel Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6195001, Israel
| | - Inbal Houri
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Tel Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6195001, Israel
| | - Dana Ben-Ami Shor
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Tel Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6195001, Israel
| | - Oren Shibolet
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Tel Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6195001, Israel
| | - Orna Mor
- Central Virology Laboratory, Ministry of Health, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Ramat Gan 5262000, Israel
- Department of Epidemiology, School of public health, Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6195001, Israel
| | - Ella Weitzman
- Center for Liver Disease, Rambam Healthcare Campus, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion, Haifa 3109601, Israel
| | - Dan Turner
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6195001, Israel
- Crusaid Kobler AIDS Center, Tel Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel
| | - Helena Katchman
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department, Tel Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6195001, Israel
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tel Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv 6423906, Israel
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8
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Von den Hoff DW, Berden FAC, Drenth JPH, Schellekens AFA. Implementation of a decentralized hepatitis C care pathway for people who use drugs in Dutch addiction care. Study protocol for the Hepatitis C: chain of addiction care (CAC) project. Addict Sci Clin Pract 2022; 17:67. [PMID: 36451175 PMCID: PMC9710026 DOI: 10.1186/s13722-022-00350-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who use drugs (PWUD) are at high risk for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and its complications. Given the high prevalence rate of HCV in PWUD, the World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes PWUD as a target population for HCV elimination. The introduction of pangenotypic direct acting antivirals (DAAs) greatly simplifies HCV treatment, which encourages integration of HCV treatment in primary care. Facilitating low threshold HCV care for PWUD by implementing decentralized models is crucial for HCV elimination. AIMS With this study we aim to (1) eliminate 90% of identified HCV infections in Dutch addiction care, using a decentralized PWUD-HCV care model, and (2) identify facilitators and barriers for successful implementation of the model using interviews. METHODS We will perform a multicenter mixed-method study on HCV treatment in addiction care. In a prospective observational study we will examine HCV-related outcomes in PWUD receiving HCV treatment as part of addiction care. The primary outcome is viral elimination, defined as percentage of identified HCV positive patients cured with DAAs. In parallel, we will perform a qualitative study to explore facilitators and barriers for implementation of fully decentralized HCV-PWUD care. We will interview addiction care professionals and board members about their experience with HCV-care as part of addiction care. DISCUSSION This study will show effectiveness of integration of HCV care within addiction care, and provide insight in facilitators and barriers to implement integrated HCV-addiction care. The results will provide recommendations for implementation and maintenance of the decentralized HCV pathway, which can facilitate scaling-up to contribute to reaching WHO HCV elimination goals. Trial registration NCT05401136.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daan W. Von den Hoff
- grid.10417.330000 0004 0444 9382Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Floor A. C. Berden
- grid.10417.330000 0004 0444 9382Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Joost P. H. Drenth
- grid.10417.330000 0004 0444 9382Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Arnt F. A. Schellekens
- grid.10417.330000 0004 0444 9382Department of Psychiatry, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Center, Netherlands and Nijmegen Institute for Scientist-Practitioners in Addiction and Donders Institute for Brain, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Coupland H, Day C, Haber P, Pritchard-Jones J, McKee K, George J, McCaughan G. Client resistance to hepatitis C treatment initiation in opioid agonist treatment clinics in Sydney, Australia: A qualitative study. Drug Alcohol Rev 2021; 41:706-714. [PMID: 34839561 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Opioid agonist treatment (OAT) clinics play a key role in achieving elimination of hepatitis C virus (HCV) globally. Previous research has identified barriers to HCV treatment uptake in OAT clinics; however, most studies were conducted prior to the introduction of direct-acting antiviral treatments (DAA). It remains unclear whether progress has been made in responding to barriers and what challenges persist in this setting. METHODS Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with staff (n = 20) and clients (n = 15) in two OAT clinics in Sydney, Australia. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using constant comparative methods. RESULTS Despite progress in integrating hepatitis C care in the clinics, competing priorities, concerns about side-effects, distrust of staff, health problems and difficulties accessing testing and medication persisted as key reasons why clients had not initiated treatment. Most clients preferred to postpone treatment and focus on other priorities and some highlighted lack of medical evidence for urgent treatment. Pressure on services to achieve elimination targets within set time frames was a primary driver of repeated offers of treatment by staff and the framing of clients' preferences for postponing treatment, as a barrier. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Current timelines for HCV elimination targets may have galvanised services into action but may have also created tensions at the coalface due to disparities between staff and clients' priorities. The involvement of peer workers and mechanisms to ensure continued follow up with clients about DAA treatments is required. Public health timelines for HCV elimination need to be informed by affected communities' priorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Coupland
- Edith Collins Centre (Translational Research in Alcohol, Drugs and Toxicology), Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia.,Drug Health Services, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia.,Specialty of Addiction Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Carolyn Day
- Edith Collins Centre (Translational Research in Alcohol, Drugs and Toxicology), Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia.,Drug Health Services, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia.,Specialty of Addiction Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Paul Haber
- Edith Collins Centre (Translational Research in Alcohol, Drugs and Toxicology), Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia.,Drug Health Services, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia.,Specialty of Addiction Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Janice Pritchard-Jones
- W Morrow Gastroenterology and Liver Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia
| | - Kristen McKee
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jacob George
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Geoff McCaughan
- W Morrow Gastroenterology and Liver Centre, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia
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10
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Frankova S, Jandova Z, Jinochova G, Kreidlova M, Merta D, Sperl J. Therapy of chronic hepatitis C in people who inject drugs: focus on adherence. Harm Reduct J 2021; 18:69. [PMID: 34193156 PMCID: PMC8247095 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-021-00519-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Intravenous drug use (IVDU) represents the major factor of HCV transmission, but the treatment uptake among people who inject drugs (PWID) remains low owing to a false presumption of low efficacy. The aim of our study was to assess treatment efficacy in PWID and factors determining adherence to therapy. Methods A total of 278 consecutive patients starting DAA (direct-acting antivirals) therapy were included, divided into two groups: individuals with a history of IVDU, PWID group (N = 101) and the control group (N = 177) without a history of IVDU. Results Sustained virological response 12 weeks after the end of therapy (SVR12) was achieved by 99/101 (98%) and 172/177 (98%) patients in the PWID and control group, respectively; in PWID group, two patients were lost to follow-up, and in the control group, four patients relapsed and one was lost to follow-up. PWID patients postponed appointments significantly more often, 29 (28.7%) in PWID versus 7 (4%) in the control group, p = 0.001. Thirteen of 101 (12.9%) and six of 177 (3.4%) patients in the PWID and in the control group, respectively, missed at least one visit (p < 0.01). However, postponing visits led to a lack of medication in only one PWID. In the PWID group, older age (p < 0.05; OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.00–1.20) and stable housing (p < 0.01; OR 9.70, 95% CI 2.10–56.20) were factors positively contributing to adherence. Contrarily, a stable job was a factor negatively influencing adherence (p < 0.05; OR 0.24, 95% CI 0.06–0.81). In the control group, none of the analyzed social and demographic factors had an impact on adherence to therapy. Conclusions In PWID, treatment efficacy was excellent and was comparable with SVR of the control group. Stable housing and older age contributed to a better adherence to therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sona Frankova
- Department of Hepatogastroenterology, Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Videnska 1958/9, 14021, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Zuzana Jandova
- Psychiatric Hospital Havlickuv Brod, Havlickuv Brod, Czech Republic.,First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Gabriela Jinochova
- Psychiatric Hospital Havlickuv Brod, Havlickuv Brod, Czech Republic.,Addiction Centre Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Miluse Kreidlova
- Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Diagnostics, First Faculty of Medicine Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Dusan Merta
- Cardiothoracic Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Sperl
- Department of Hepatogastroenterology, Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Videnska 1958/9, 14021, Prague, Czech Republic.,First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
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A H, L M, Am J, M M, Gp A, S V. Community-Based Assessment and Treatment of Hepatitis C Virus-Related Liver Disease, Injecting Drug and Alcohol Use Amongst People Who Are Homeless: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2021; 96:103342. [PMID: 34210551 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2021.103342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis addressing community-based assessment and treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related liver disease, injecting drug use (IDU) and alcohol use amongst people who are homeless (PWAH). METHODS Using systematic review methodology, databases were searched (MEDLINE/ EMBASE/CINAHL) for studies combining PWAH, HCV-related liver disease and community assessment until December 2019. Studies with a sample size ≥ 30, with PWAH constituting at least 30% of the cohort were included and a quality assessment performed. Pooled estimates of key indicators were analysed using meta-analysis. RESULTS We identified 39 studies (n = 13,918), 37 categorised as poor quality (Newcastle-Ottawa Scale). Prevalence of homelessness ranged between 30%-100% (37 studies). Eight studies provided all of the following: HCV screening, alcohol/substance use/liver fibrosis assessment and HCV treatment. No study provided interventions for alcohol use, with two providing opioid substitution treatment. Alcohol use prevalence (24 studies) was 4%-97%, being 59% (95% CI 20%-92%) in four studies that included only PWAH. Recent IDU prevalence (16 studies) was 7%-73%, being 21% (95% CI 17%-26%) in four studies that included only PWAH. HCV seroprevalence (25 studies) was 2.5% - 58%; in 13 studies that included only PWAH, this was 20% (95% CI 12%-30%). Prevalence of F4 fibrosis (nine studies) was 6%-28%, being 7% and 16% in two studies that included only PWAH. Direct acting antiviral-based intention-to-treat sustained virological response (SVR) rates (five studies) were 82%-92%, being 92% in the one study that included only PWAH. In the only two randomised controlled trials (RCT) identified, community-based interventions (mental health/peer mentor) significantly increased linkage to care (p = 0.04), HCV treatment (p = 0.005) and SVR rates (p = 0.018). CONCLUSION The burden from alcohol/IDU and HCV, and consequently liver disease in PWAH needs addressing. RCT trials assessing community-based interventions to improve liver health in PWAH are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hashim A
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, Brighton, United Kingdom; Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Macken L
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, Brighton, United Kingdom; Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Jones Am
- Sussex Partnership Foundation Trust, Hove, United Kingdom
| | - McGeer M
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, Brighton, United Kingdom; Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Aithal Gp
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and the University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom; Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Verma S
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, Brighton, United Kingdom; Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, United Kingdom.
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Factors Enhancing Treatment of Hepatitis C Virus-Infected Italian People Who Use Drugs: The CLEO-GRECAS Experience. Am J Gastroenterol 2021; 116:1248-1255. [PMID: 34074828 DOI: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000001147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We assessed the performance of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) in hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected people who use drugs (PWUDs) in terms of sustained virological response (SVR) and adherence rates in comparison to a location-matched cohort of non-PWUD HCV patients. METHODS All consecutive HCV RNA-positive PWUDs were enrolled between 2015 and 2019. All subjects underwent DAA treatment according to international guidelines and then followed, at least, up to 12 weeks after the end of treatment (SVR12). The SVR and adherence to treatment was compared with that of non-PWUD HCV patients observed at hepatological units of the CLEO platform. Intention-to-treat analysis was performed. RESULTS A total of 1,786 PWUDs who were followed up were available for assessment. Most PWUDs (85.4%) were managed inside the specialized outpatient addiction clinics (SerDs). The overall SVR rate was 95.4%. The SerDs group achieved an SVR rate of 96.2% compared with 91.6% of the non-SerDs group (P < 0.001). Comparison with the non-SerDs group and the control HCV group showed a significant difference in the dropout rate (0.6% in the SerDs group versus 2.8% in the non-SerDs group and 1.2% in the control group; P < 0.001). At multivariate analysis, factors independently associated with SVR were use of the most recent regimens (elbasvir/grazoprevir, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, and sofosbuvir/velpatasvir; odds ratio: 3.126; P = 0.000) and belonging to the SerDs group (odds ratio: 2.356; P = 0.002). DISCUSSION The performance of DAAs in PWUD is excellent, if 2 conditions are met: (i) that the latest generation drugs are used and (ii) that the patients are managed within the SerDs.
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Reygosa C, Morales-Arraez D, Hernández-Bustabad A, Melián Baute L, Hernández-Guerra M. Hepatitis C-treated patients as a potential source for referral of new cases. GASTROENTEROLOGIA Y HEPATOLOGIA 2021; 44:704-710. [PMID: 34023471 DOI: 10.1016/j.gastrohep.2021.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Revised: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) are an opportunity for hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination. Strategies are needed to diagnose new patients and to attract those diagnosed without evaluation. Patients with other chronic viral diseases who receive satisfactory treatment promote referral of other patients for evaluation. Our aim was to evaluate whether patients who have been treated with DAAs would recommend follow-up and treatment to other patients as well as the characteristics that influence this decision. PATIENTS AND METHODS Two-hundred and 2HCV-infected patients treated with DAAs were included. Patients were asked about whether they knew other infected people and their willingness to share their experience. A general satisfaction survey and a specific HCV satisfaction survey were carried out. Demographic, socioeconomic and HCV infection variables were recorded. RESULTS Despite the fact that 54.4% of the patients reported knowing others infected, 34.2% would not fully agree to share their experience. The analysis of general and specific satisfaction showed that patients who shared their experience mentioned a perception of greater care from the specialist (4.7±0.4 vs. 4.3±0.6, P=.001) and had more information on treatment expectations (4.6±0.5 vs. 4.0±0.7, P=.001) and social support (4.5±0.7 vs. 4.0±0.8, P=.001). CONCLUSIONS The perception by treated patients of general satisfaction with the healthcare process and information about benefits influences the degree of recommendation to other infected people. Knowledge about treatment and perception of improvement in health of treated patients should be enhanced as it can contribute to increasing referrals to specialized consultation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Reygosa
- Servicio de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, España
| | - Dalia Morales-Arraez
- Servicio de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, España
| | - Alberto Hernández-Bustabad
- Servicio de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, España
| | - Lorelay Melián Baute
- Servicio de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, España
| | - Manuel Hernández-Guerra
- Servicio de Aparato Digestivo, Hospital Universitario de Canarias, La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, España; Instituto Universitario de Tecnologías Biomédicas CIBICAN, Departamento de Medicina Interna, Psiquiatría y Dermatología, Universidad de La Laguna, La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, España.
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Wade AJ, Doyle JS, Draper B, Howell J, Iser D, Roberts SK, Kemp W, Thompson AJ, Hellard ME. In support of community-based hepatitis C treatment with triage of people at risk of cirrhosis to specialist care. J Viral Hepat 2021; 28:217-218. [PMID: 32860312 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda J Wade
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Barwon Health, Geelong, Vic., Australia
| | - Joseph S Doyle
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred and Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Bridget Draper
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Jessica Howell
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,Department of Gastroenterology, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - David Iser
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred and Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,Department of Gastroenterology, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Stuart K Roberts
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Alfred, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,Department of Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - William Kemp
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Alfred, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,Department of Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Alexander J Thompson
- Department of Gastroenterology, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Margaret E Hellard
- Disease Elimination Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Vic., Australia.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Barwon Health, Geelong, Vic., Australia.,School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
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Phillips C, O'Sullivan M, Schulkind J, Jones CJ, Verma S. Authors' reply to letter: In support of community-based hepatitis C treatment with triage of people at risk of cirrhosis to specialist care. J Viral Hepat 2021; 28:219-220. [PMID: 32852073 DOI: 10.1111/jvh.13389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Clare Phillips
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Brighton and Sussex University Hospital NHS Trust, Brighton, UK
| | - Margaret O'Sullivan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Brighton and Sussex University Hospital NHS Trust, Brighton, UK
| | - Jasmine Schulkind
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
| | | | - Sumita Verma
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Brighton and Sussex University Hospital NHS Trust, Brighton, UK.,Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
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O'Sullivan M, Jones AM, Gage H, Jordan J, MacPepple E, Williams H, Verma S. ITTREAT (Integrated Community Test - Stage - TREAT) Hepatitis C service for people who use drugs: Real-world outcomes. Liver Int 2020; 40:1021-1031. [PMID: 32048798 DOI: 10.1111/liv.14403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2019] [Revised: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) provide an unprecedented opportunity for a "find-and-treat strategy." We aimed to report real-world clinical, patient reported and health economic outcomes of community-based hepatitis C virus (HCV) screening/treatment in people who use drugs (PWUDs). METHODS Project ITTREAT (2013-2021), established at a drug and alcohol treatment centre, offered a comprehensive service. Generic (SF-12v2 and EQ-5D-5L) and liver-specific (SFLDQoL) health-related quality of life (HRQoL) were assessed before and after HCV treatment. Costs/case detected and cured were calculated. Primary outcome measure was sustained virological response (SVR) (intention to treat). RESULTS Till March 2018, 573 individuals recruited, 462 (81%) males, mean age 40.5 ± 10.0 years. Of the 125 treated, 115 (92%) had past/current history of injecting drug use, 88 (70%) were receiving opioid agonist treatment and 50 (40%) were homeless. Twenty-six per cent received interferon-based and 74% DAA-only regimens. SVR (ITT) was 87% (90% with DAAs). Service uptake/HCV treatment completion rates were >95%, HCV reinfection being 2.63/100 person years (95% CI 0.67-10.33). HRQoL improved significantly at end of treatment (EOT) in those with SVR: SFLDQoL (symptoms, memory, distress, loneliness, hopelessness, sleep and stigma) (P</ = .011); SF-12 v2 physical and mental health domains (P < .001); and EQ-5D-5L composite profile score (P = .009) and visual analogue scale, P < .001. Cost (British pounds 2018) per case detected was £171; mean cost per cure (excluding medication) was £702 ± 188. CONCLUSIONS Excellent real-world SVRs in PWUDs with significant improvement in HRQoL can be achieved at modest costs. Project ITTREAT endorses community-based integrated services to help achieve HCV elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret O'Sullivan
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Brighton and Sussex University Hospital NHS Trust, Brighton, UK
| | | | - Heather Gage
- Surrey Health Economics Centre, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Surrey, Surrey, UK
| | - Jake Jordan
- Surrey Health Economics Centre, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Surrey, Surrey, UK
| | - Ekelechi MacPepple
- Surrey Health Economics Centre, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Surrey, Surrey, UK
| | | | - Sumita Verma
- Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Brighton and Sussex University Hospital NHS Trust, Brighton, UK.,Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Brighton & Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
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