Trends in HCV prevalence, risk factors and distribution of viral genotypes in injecting drug users: findings from two cross-sectional studies

Abstract

SUMMARYIn the last decade, a declining prevalence of HCV infection has been described in injecting drug users (IDUs) in different countries. This study is the first to assess temporal trends in druginjecting patterns, HCV infection rates and viral genotype distribution in 770 Brazilian IDUs, recruited by two cross-sectional studies (1994-1997 and 1999-2001). A substantial decline in the prevalence of HCV infection was found over the years (75 % in 1994 vs. 20 . 6 % in 2001, P<0 . 001) that may be a consequence of the significant reduction in the overall frequencies of drug injection and needle-sharing, as well as the participation of IDUs in initiatives aimed at reducing drug-related harm. No trend was found in terms of viral genotype distribution. Despite the favourable scenario, preventive measures must be maintained, especially in vulnerable subgroups such as young or new injectors, where risky behaviours through direct and indirect sharing practices remain common.

Prevalence of hepatitis C virus infection and associated factors among male illicit drug users in Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, Brazil

“…Since the present survey was performed in 2007, a decline in needle sharing and injection frequency as well as increased educational measures may have contributed to a decreased risk exposure. Oliveira et al (2009b) described a remarkable decline in HCV infection among intravenous drug users in Rio de Janeiro (Southeast Region) over the years. Some authors state that the use of non-intravenouslyinjected drugs also contributes to the transmission of HCV due to the exposure of nasal mucosa that comes from using shared equipment (Murphy et al 2000).…”

Prevalence and genotypes of hepatitis C virus among injecting drug users from Salvador-BA, Brazil

“…In addition, there is little awareness of HCV and the associated risk of infection within this group (Vidal-Trecan et al 2000). In the last decade, a declining prevalence of HCV infection has been described in IDUs in different countries, including Brazil , Novais et al 2009, Oliveira et al 2009). …”

Seroprevalence of HBV, HCV and HIV co-infection in selected individuals from state of São Paulo, Brazil

“…Furthermore, most Brazilian studies, particularly ones dealing with hepatitis, were carried out in selected populations (e.g., prisoners, individuals with renal failure undergoing hemodialysis, intravenous injection drug users and health care workers) (Paraná et al 2007, Fialho et al 2008, Oliveira et al 2009). Patients attending a given clinic of infectology at a regional hospital also represent a specific risk group, as a wide variety of infectious diseases are screened.…”