HCV Treatment Outcomes in People Who Inject Drugs
Author Information
Author(s): Ivana Milošević, Branko Beronja, Ana Filipović, Nikola Mitrović, Jelena Simić, Nataša Knežević, Jovana Ranin, Nevena Todorović, Olja Stevanović, Aleksandra Radovanović-Spurnić, Nataša Katanić, Dejan Hristović, Nataša Nikolić
Primary Institution: University Clinical Center of Serbia
Hypothesis
Does addiction history affect the sustained virologic response (SVR12) rate in patients with chronic hepatitis C?
Conclusion
People who inject drugs (PWIDs) have lower treatment adherence and higher rates of psychiatric disorders, impacting their hepatitis C treatment outcomes.
Supporting Evidence
- PWIDs had significantly lower treatment adherence compared to non-PWIDs.
- The average age of PWIDs was significantly younger than that of non-PWIDs.
- Higher rates of psychiatric disorders were observed in the PWID group.
- Advanced fibrosis was a predictor of treatment failure among PWIDs.
Takeaway
This study shows that people who inject drugs often have a harder time sticking to their hepatitis C treatment, which can make it harder for them to get better.
Methodology
This prospective study evaluated treatment outcomes in 432 adult patients with chronic hepatitis C treated with direct-acting antivirals, categorizing them based on addiction history.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the referral process from addiction treatment facilities and general practitioners.
Limitations
The study was conducted at a single center, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
The study included 432 adults, with 163 (37.7%) being people who inject drugs, predominantly male (76.7%) and younger (average age 45.74 years).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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