1
|
Levinsson A, Zolopa C, Vakili F, Udhesister S, Kronfli N, Maheu-Giroux M, Bruneau J, Valerio H, Bajis S, Read P, Martró E, Boucher L, Morris L, Grebely J, Artenie A, Stone J, Vickerman P, Larney S. Sex and gender differences in hepatitis C virus risk, prevention, and cascade of care in people who inject drugs: systematic review and meta-analysis. EClinicalMedicine 2024; 72:102596. [PMID: 38633576 PMCID: PMC11019099 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2024.102596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background People who inject drugs (PWID) are a priority population in HCV elimination programming. Overcoming sex and gender disparities in HCV risk, prevention, and the cascade of care is likely to be important to achieving this goal, but these have not yet been comprehensively reviewed. Methods Systematic review and meta-analysis. We searched Pubmed, EMBASE and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 1 January 2012-22 January 2024 for studies of any design reporting sex or gender differences among PWID in at least one of: sharing of needles and/or syringes, incarceration history, injection while incarcerated, participation in opioid agonist treatment or needle and syringe programs, HCV testing, spontaneous HCV clearance, direct-acting antiviral (DAA) treatment initiation or completion, and sustained virological response (SVR). Assessment of study quality was based on selected aspects of study design. Additional data were requested from study authors. Data were extracted in duplicate and meta-analysed using random effects models. PROSPERO registration CRD42022342806. Findings 9533 studies were identified and 92 studies were included. Compared to men, women were at greater risk for receptive needle and syringe sharing (past 6-12 months: risk ratio (RR) 1.12; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01-1.23; <6 months: RR 1.38; 95% CI 1.09-1.76), less likely to be incarcerated (lifetime RR 0.64; 95% CI 0.57-0.73) more likely to be tested for HCV infection (lifetime RR 1.07; 95% CI 1.01, 1.14), more likely to spontaneously clear infection (RR1.58; 95% CI 1.40-1.79), less likely to initiate DAA treatment (0.84; 95% CI 0.78-0.90), and more likely to attain SVR after completing DAA treatment (RR 1.02; 95% CI 1.01-1.04). Interpretation There are important differences in HCV risk and cascade of care indicators among people who inject drugs that may impact the effectiveness of prevention and treatment programming. Developing and assessing the effectiveness of gender-specific and gender-responsive HCV interventions should be a priority in elimination programming. Funding Réseau SIDA-MI du Québec.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Levinsson
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Camille Zolopa
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Educational & Counselling Psychology, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Farzaneh Vakili
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Sasha Udhesister
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Nadine Kronfli
- Division of Infectious Disease and Chronic Viral Illness Service, Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Centre for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Mathieu Maheu-Giroux
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Julie Bruneau
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Heather Valerio
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sahar Bajis
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Phillip Read
- Kirketon Road Centre, South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Elisa Martró
- Microbiology Department, Laboratori Clínic Metropolitana Nord, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Institut d'Investigació Germans Trias i Pujol (IGTP), Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Lisa Boucher
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Leith Morris
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Univerity of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Jason Grebely
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Adelina Artenie
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Jack Stone
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Peter Vickerman
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation at University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Larney
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Chappell CA, Stewart E, Laird HJ, Jonassaint N, Kasula K, Patterson M, Krans EE. Postpartum Treatment for Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Among People With Opioid Use Disorder: A Prospective Pilot Clinical Trial. J Addict Med 2024; 18:160-166. [PMID: 38258866 DOI: 10.1097/adm.0000000000001266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of postpartum hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment integrated within a substance use treatment program for pregnant and postpartum people with opioid use disorder (OUD). METHODS We conducted a prospective pilot clinical trial of sofosbuvir/velpatasvir (SOF/VEL) treatment among postpartum people with OUD and HCV. Feasibility outcomes included rates of HCV treatment utilization and completion, medication adherence, and sustained virologic response 12 weeks after treatment completion (SVR12). Acceptability was measured through self-reported adverse effects and medication adherence. RESULTS From January 2018 to August 2021, 164 pregnant people received care for OUD at the study site. Among those, 64 (39.0%) were HCV antibody positive and 45 (27.4%) had active HCV infection. Among 45 eligible patients, 32 (71.1%) enrolled and 21 (46.7%) initiated HCV treatment. Of 21 participants who initiated treatment, 16 (76.2%) completed the SOF/VEL treatment, and 11 (52.4%) completed the SVR12. All participants who completed treatment were cured. Common reasons for dropout during the HCV clinical care cascade were OUD treatment discontinuation, illicit substance use recurrence, and lost to follow-up. Participants reported high satisfaction with HCV treatment, including minimal adverse effects, and no HCV treatment concerns. CONCLUSIONS Nearly half of pregnant people with HCV initiated postpartum treatment within an integrated care model of HCV treatment within a substance use treatment program. Postpartum SOF/VEL was efficacious, tolerable, and acceptable. Despite this, postpartum HCV treatment among people with OUD remains challenging, and many barriers remain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catherine A Chappell
- From the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA (CAC, EEK); Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA (CAC, ES, HJL, NJ, KK, MP, EEK); and Department of Gastroenterology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA (NJ)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Boudova S, Tholey D, Fenkel JM, Derman R, Boelig RC. Pregnancy as an Opportunity for Hepatitis C Virus Elimination and Eradication. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2024; 110:199-201. [PMID: 38150734 PMCID: PMC10859822 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.23-0629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the development of highly effective direct-acting antivirals, the WHO has set a goal of hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination by 2030. Key to this strategy is increased screening and treatment. Pregnancy and the postpartum period represent a unique time when underserved populations have increased contact with the healthcare system. We propose using antenatal care to maximize case identification, treatment, and prevention. Pregnant individuals are an ideal sentinel population for HCV surveillance. Universal screening in pregnancy can provide population-level data. Once cases are identified, pregnancy presents an opportunity for intervention. Although not currently WHO approved, clinical trials are examining treatment during pregnancy. In the interim, identification of infection during pregnancy allows for optimization of the treatment cascade postpartum. Pregnancy can be used as a time for prevention. Taking advantage of patient engagement and existing infrastructure, pregnancy presents an opportunity to intervene in the fight for HCV eradication.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Boudova
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Danielle Tholey
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Jonathan M. Fenkel
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Richard Derman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Rupsa C. Boelig
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Foley MK, Djerboua M, Kushner T, Biondi MJ, Feld JJ, Terrault NA, Flemming JA. Maternal neighbourhood-level social determinants of health and their association with paediatric hepatitis C screening among children exposed to hepatitis C in pregnancy. Paediatr Perinat Epidemiol 2024; 38:152-160. [PMID: 38273801 DOI: 10.1111/ppe.13042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current guidelines recommend HCV screening by 18 months of age for those exposed to HCV in utero; yet, screening occurs in the minority of children. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the association between maternal neighbourhood-level social determinants of health (SDOH) and paediatric HCV screening in the general population in a publicly funded healthcare system in Canada. METHODS Retrospective cohort study using administrative healthcare data held at ICES. Children born to individuals positive for HCV RNA in pregnancy from 2000 to 2016 were identified and followed for 2 years. Major SDOH were identified, and the primary outcome was HCV screening in exposed children (HCV antibody and/or RNA). Associations between SDOH and HCV screening were determined using multivariate Poisson regression models adjusting for confounding. RESULTS A total of 1780 children born to persons with +HCV RNA were identified, and 29% (n = 516) were screened for HCV by age two. Most mothers resided in the lowest income quintile (42%), and most vulnerable quintiles for material deprivation (41%), housing instability (38%) and ethnic diversity (26%) with 11% living in rural locations. After adjustment for confounding, maternal rural residence (risk ratio [RR] 0.82, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.62, 1.07) and living in the highest dependency quintile (RR 0.83, 95% CI 0.65, 1.07) were the SDOH most associated with paediatric HCV screening. Younger maternal age (RR 0.98 per 1-year increase, 95% CI 0.97, 0.99), HIV co-infection (RR 1.69, 95% CI 1.16, 2.48) and GI specialist involvement (RR 1.18, 95% CI 1.00, 1.39) were associated with higher probabilities of screening. CONCLUSIONS Among children exposed to HCV during pregnancy, rural residences and living in highly dependent neighbourhoods showed a potential association with a lower probability of HCV screening by the age of 2. Future work evaluating barriers to paediatric HCV screening among rural residing and dependent residents is needed to enhance the screening.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mary K Foley
- Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Tatyana Kushner
- Division of Liver Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Mia J Biondi
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jordan J Feld
- Toronto Centre for Liver Disease, Sandra Rotman Centre for Global Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Norah A Terrault
- Division of Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases, Keck School of Medicine at University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jennifer A Flemming
- Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
- ICES Queens, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Cancer Care and Epidemiology, Queen's Cancer Research Institute, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Boudova S, Tholey DM, Ferries-Rowe E. Hepatitis C virus detection and management after implementation of universal screening in pregnancy. AJOG Glob Rep 2024; 4:100317. [PMID: 38435837 PMCID: PMC10905043 DOI: 10.1016/j.xagr.2024.100317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Accurately identifying cases of hepatitis C virus has important medical and public health consequences. In the setting of rising hepatitis C virus prevalence and highly effective treatment with direct-acting antivirals, the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine guidelines recently changed to recommend universal screening for hepatitis C virus during pregnancy. However, there is little data on the influence of this policy change on case identification and management. OBJECTIVE We aimed to examine the influence of universal hepatitis C virus screening on our patient population. Our primary objective was to determine if there was a difference in the detected hepatitis C virus prevalence after the policy change. Our secondary objectives were to determine which factors were associated with a positive test for hepatitis C virus and to examine postpartum management of pregnant patients living with hepatitis C virus, including the (1) gastroenterology referral rate, (2) treatment rate, (3) infantile hepatitis C virus screening rate, and (4) factors associated with being referred for treatment. STUDY DESIGN We conducted a single-center, retrospective cohort study of deliveries that occurred before (July 2018-June 2020) and after (July 2020-December 2021) the implementation of universal hepatitis C virus screening. Information on hepatitis C virus and HIV status, if patients were screened for hepatitis C virus, history of intravenous drug use, and basic demographic information were abstracted from the electronic medical records. A subset of patients was administered a questionnaire regarding hepatitis C virus risk factors. For all patients who tested positive for hepatitis C virus, information on if they were referred for treatment in the postpartum period and if their infant was screened for hepatitis C virus were abstracted from the electronic medical records. RESULTS A total of 8973 deliveries occurred during this study period. A total of 71 (0.79%) patients had a detectable viral load. With implementation of universal screening, hepatitis C virus screening rates increased from 5.78% to 77.25% of deliveries (P<.01). The hepatitis C virus prevalence rates before and after universal screening was implemented were 0.78% and 0.81%, respectively (P=.88). There were significant demographic shifts in our pregnant population over this time period, including a reduction in intravenous drug use. A subset of 958 patients completed a hepatitis C virus risk factor questionnaire, in addition to undergoing universal hepatitis C virus screening. Ten patients screened positive with universal screening; only 8 of these individuals would have been identified with risk-based screening. Among the patients with a detectable viral load, 67.61% were referred for treatment and 18.75% were treated. A multivariate logistic regression model indicated that intravenous drug use was associated with significantly decreased odds of being referred for treatment (odds ratio, 0.14; 95% confidence interval, 0.04-0.59; P=.01). At the time of our evaluation, 52 infants were at least 18 months old and thus eligible for hepatitis C virus screening. Among these infants, 8 (15.38%) were screened for hepatitis C virus, and all were negative. CONCLUSION Following the practice shift, we saw a significant increase in hepatitis C virus screening during pregnancy. However, postpartum treatment and infant screening remained low. Intravenous drug use was associated with a decreased likelihood of being referred for treatment. Pregnancy represents a unique time for hepatitis C virus case identification, although better linkage to care is needed to increase postpartum treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Boudova
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN (Drs Boudova and Ferries-Rowe)
| | - Danielle M. Tholey
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA (Dr Tholey)
| | - Elizabeth Ferries-Rowe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN (Drs Boudova and Ferries-Rowe)
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Nguyen I, Moussa K, Gutierrez J. Hepatitis C Virus Elimination in the United States: Challenges, Progress, and Future Steps. Gastroenterol Hepatol (N Y) 2023; 19:700-707. [PMID: 38405224 PMCID: PMC10882868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major public health challenge with a simple, highly efficacious, all-oral therapy (direct-acting antivirals) that can achieve cure. Owing to the ease of treatment, the World Health Organization outlined goals to eliminate HCV by the year 2030. However, unforeseen challenges have hampered progress, and few countries are on track to meet these goals. Significant disparities remain among priority populations because of barriers to care on the systemic, provider, and patient levels. In turn, many local, state, and national organizations have been persistent in tackling these barriers, the greatest of which is linkage to care. In 2023, the White House launched a multipronged national initiative to eliminate HCV infection. The resulting economic impact of the national HCV elimination program is estimated to yield a significant net cost savings of $18.1 billion within a 10-year period. This article addresses the barriers to HCV care in different priority populations and discusses innovative models of HCV care that have been introduced in the United States.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Nguyen
- Scripps Clinic/Scripps Green Hospital, Department of Internal Medicine, La Jolla, California
| | - Karine Moussa
- Scripps Clinic/Scripps Green Hospital, Department of Internal Medicine, La Jolla, California
| | - Julio Gutierrez
- Scripps Center for Organ and Cell Transplantation, La Jolla, California
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Thompson LA, Plitt SS, Doucette K, Coffin CS, Klein KB, Robinson JL, Charlton CL. Evaluation and comparison of risk-based and universal prenatal HCV screening programs in Alberta, Canada. J Hepatol 2023; 79:1121-1128. [PMID: 37348788 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2023.05.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Canadian clinical practice guidelines currently recommend risk-based screening for HCV in pregnant individuals. However, no provinces or territories have ever compared the effectiveness of risk-based vs. universal screening for the prenatal diagnosis of HCV. We aimed to evaluate and compare HCV screening programs after implementing a universal population-level pilot program among prenatal patients in Alberta, Canada. METHODS The Alberta Prenatal Screening Program for Select Communicable Diseases was amended to include universal HCV antibody screening. Cohorts of pregnant individuals screened for HCV through risk-based or universal programs were generated over 1-year periods. HCV screening rates and prevalence were analyzed and compared between cohorts to evaluate the effectiveness of screening methods. Social and demographic risk factors for HCV-positive individuals were compared between screening cohorts to identify which populations may be overlooked with risk-based guidelines. RESULTS HCV antibody screening rates were 11.9% and 99.9% among pregnant individuals in the risk-based and universal cohorts, respectively. HCV prevalence among the cohorts was 0.07% and 0.11% (difference = 0.04%, p = 0.032), with an average of 21 additional HCV-positive pregnant individuals identified annually with universal screening. HCV-positive pregnant patients diagnosed through universal screening were more likely to engage in high-risk sexual behaviours/sex work compared to those diagnosed through risk-based screening (47.6% vs. 12.5%, respectively p = 0.035), suggesting that these high-risk cases are being missed by risk-based screening. CONCLUSIONS Universal HCV screening diagnoses significantly higher numbers of pregnant individuals infected with HCV compared to risk-based screening. Universal HCV screening or amending risk-based guidelines to incorporate more proxy variables for risk factors should be considered to improve prenatal HCV screening guidelines in Canada and help achieve HCV elimination in the next decade. IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS HCV is a bloodborne pathogen that can cause severe liver disease and be vertically transmitted from a mother to her baby during pregnancy. Pregnant individuals in Alberta are currently only tested for HCV if they disclose engaging in activities that put them at risk of acquiring the infection (risk-based screening). Using a population-wide universal prenatal HCV screening program, our work shows that testing based on patient disclosed risk alone leads to the significant underdiagnosis of HCV in pregnant individuals and suggests individuals engaging in sex work or risky sexual behaviours are being overlooked by the current risk-based program. Our outcomes represent the first province-wide study to evaluate and compare prenatal HCV risk-based and universal screening programs in Canada and provide evidence to support the update of prenatal HCV screening policies across the country and in similar jurisdictions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Alexa Thompson
- Division of Diagnostic and Applied Microbiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada; Women and Children's Health Research Institute (WCHRI), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Sabrina S Plitt
- Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Karen Doucette
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada; Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Carla S Coffin
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Kristin B Klein
- Provincial Population and Public Health, Alberta Health Services, Alberta, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Joan L Robinson
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Carmen L Charlton
- Division of Diagnostic and Applied Microbiology, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada; Women and Children's Health Research Institute (WCHRI), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada; Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada; Alberta Precision Laboratories (ProvLab), University of Alberta Hospital, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Shah S. "Medi-Mom": maternal mortality and extending postpartum Medicaid coverage. Pediatr Res 2023; 94:862-865. [PMID: 37481691 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-023-02719-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Shetal Shah
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Maria Fareri Children's Hospital, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Massih SA, Eke AC. Direct antiviral agents (DAAs) and their use in pregnant women with hepatitis C (HCV). Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2022; 20:1413-1424. [PMID: 36111676 PMCID: PMC9588700 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2022.2125868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Direct-Acting Antiviral Agents (DAAs) provide safer, efficacious, tolerable, and curative therapy for women with hepatitis C. Their preferred safety and efficacy profile make them potential therapies for the elimination of perinatal transmission of hepatitis C virus (HCV). However, DAAs are not currently recommended for use during pregnancy due to limited pharmacokinetic and safety data. AREAS COVERED This review covers the different DAA drug combinations, the available data on their pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties, how the physiology in pregnancy can potentially affect DAA drug disposition, known drug-drug interactions with DAAs, and available and planned epidemiological and pharmacokinetic studies on DAA use during pregnancy. Although no large randomized clinical trials or prospective cohort studies involving DAAs have been completed in pregnancy, the currently available studies demonstrate no significant changes in pharmacokinetics, and no major safety concerns in women with hepatitis C. EXPERT OPINION Initial pharmacokinetic and safety data suggest that DAAs have high efficacy and a low risk of adverse events during pregnancy. As more pharmacokinetic and epidemiologic data become available, DAAs could become a preferred option for treating HCV during pregnancy and elimination of perinatal transmission of hepatitis C virus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Abdul Massih
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology & Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1800 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD 21287
| | - Ahizechukwu C. Eke
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology & Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1800 Orleans Street, Baltimore, MD 21287
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 N Wolfe Street, Phipps 228, Baltimore, MD 21287
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Pfeiffer M, O'Connor A, Zimmerman C, Thakarar K, Ahrens K. Hepatitis C Virus Cascade of Care Among Perinatal Patients in Maine Diagnosed With Opioid Use Disorder, 2015-2020. J Addict Med 2022. [PMID: 36598484 DOI: 10.1097/ADM.0000000000001098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This is a quality improvement project to determine the best process to identify and address gaps in care for perinatal patients in receiving appropriate hepatitis C virus (HCV) testing and treatment across the largest health system in Maine. STUDY DESIGN We reviewed electronic medical record data between October 1, 2015, and February 1, 2020, to investigate rates of HCV testing and treatment among 916 perinatal patients with opioid use disorder across 8 hospitals using a "cascade of care" framework, a model used previously to identify gaps in care and treatment of chronic diseases. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE We examined HCV testing and treatment rates along the cascade of care and patient characteristics associated with HCV antibody testing and treatment, separately, using log binomial regression models. Models were adjusted for age, residential distance to medical center, psychiatric diagnosis, and opioid agonist therapy at delivery. RESULTS Of pregnant patients eligible for screening, 64% (582/916) received HCV antibody testing. Of 136 patients with active HCV infection, 32% (n = 43) received a referral for treatment, 21% (n = 28) were treated, and 13% (n = 18) achieved sustained virologic response. In the adjusted regression models, only opioid agonist therapy was associated with HCV antibody testing (adjusted risk ratio, 1.31; 95% confidence interval, 1.18-1.46), and no factors were significantly associated with receipt of treatment among HCV viremic patients. CONCLUSION Low referral and treatment rates signify the need for quality improvement interventions to improve coordination of care between multiple disciplines and practice settings to increase access to HCV treatment.
Collapse
|
11
|
Honegger JR, Gowda C. Defer no more: advances in the treatment and prevention of chronic hepatitis C virus infection in children. Curr Opin Infect Dis 2022; 35:468-476. [PMID: 35852787 PMCID: PMC9474609 DOI: 10.1097/qco.0000000000000856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Direct-acting antiviral (DAA) regimens targeting hepatitis C virus (HCV) are now approved for young children. This review examines recent DAA experience in children, current treatment recommendations and challenges, and potential treatment-as-prevention strategies. RECENT FINDINGS In 2021, the US FDA extended approval of two pan-genotypic DAA regimens, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir and sofosbuvir/velpatasvir, to children as young as age 3 years based on high success rates and reassuring safety profiles in registry trials. Similar performance has been replicated with real-world DAA use in thousands of adolescents and in limited reports of children with high-risk conditions, including cirrhosis, cancer, thalassemia and HIV-coinfection. Treatment without delay is now recommended in the USA for viremic children aged 3 years and up to prevent disease progression and future spread. To date, treatment expansion is limited by high rates of undiagnosed paediatric infection. Universal prenatal screening will aid identification of perinatally exposed newborns, but new strategies are needed to boost testing of exposed infants and at-risk adolescents. Postpartum treatment programmes can prevent subsequent vertical transmission but are hampered by low rates of linkage to care and treatment completion. These challenges may be avoided by DAA use in pregnancy, and this warrants continued study. SUMMARY Paediatric HCV is now readily curable. Substantial clinical and public health effort is required to ensure widespread uptake of this therapeutic breakthrough.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan R. Honegger
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Center for Vaccines and Immunity, Abigail Wexner Research Institute, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Charitha Gowda
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Partners For Kids, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Gupta N, Hiebert L, Armstrong PA, Wester C, Ward JW. Hepatitis C in pregnancy and the TiP-HepC registry. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2022; 7:598-599. [PMID: 35709821 PMCID: PMC11003756 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(22)00168-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Neil Gupta
- Coalition for Global Hepatitis Elimination, The Task Force for Global Health, Decatur, GA 230030, USA.
| | - Lindsey Hiebert
- Coalition for Global Hepatitis Elimination, The Task Force for Global Health, Decatur, GA 230030, USA
| | - Paige A Armstrong
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Carolyn Wester
- Division of Viral Hepatitis, US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - John W Ward
- Coalition for Global Hepatitis Elimination, The Task Force for Global Health, Decatur, GA 230030, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
O’Donnell A, Pham N, Battisti L, Epstein R, Nunes D, Sawinski D, Lodi S. Estimating the causal effect of treatment with direct-acting antivirals on kidney function among individuals with hepatitis C virus infection. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0268478. [PMID: 35560032 PMCID: PMC9106151 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0268478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Direct-acting antivirals (DAA) are highly effective at treating Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, with a cure rate >95%. However, the effect of DAAs on kidney function remains debated. Methods We analyzed electronic health record data for DAA-naive patients with chronic HCV infection engaged in HCV care at Boston Medical Center between 2014 and 2018. We compared the following hypothetical interventions using causal inference methods: 1) initiation of DAA and 2) no DAA initiation. For patients with normal kidney function at baseline (eGFR>90 ml/min/1.73m2), we estimated and compared the risk for reaching Stage 3 chronic kidney disease (CKD) (eGFR≤60 ml/min/1.73m2) under each intervention. For patients with baseline CKD Stages 2–4 (15<eGFR≤90 ml/min/1.73m2), we estimated and compared the mean change in eGFR at 2 years after baseline under each intervention. We used the parametric g-formula to adjust our estimates for baseline and time-varying confounders. Results First, among 1390 patients with normal kidney function at baseline the estimated 2-year risk difference (95% CI) of reaching Stage 3 CKD for DAA initiation versus no DAA was -1% (-3, 2). Second, among 733 patients with CKD Stage 2–4 at baseline the estimated 2-year mean difference in change in eGFR for DAA initiation versus no DAA therapy was -3 ml/min/1.73m2 (-8, 2). Conclusions We found no effect of DAA initiation on kidney function, independent of baseline renal status. This suggests that DAAs may not be nephrotoxic; furthermore, in the short-term, HCV clearance may not improve CKD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adrienne O’Donnell
- Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Nathan Pham
- Department of Gastroenterology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Leandra Battisti
- Department of Pharmacy, Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Rachel Epstein
- Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Infectious Diseases, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - David Nunes
- Evans Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Deirdre Sawinski
- Nephrology and Transplant Division, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Sara Lodi
- Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|