Hepatitis C virus point-of-care microelimination approach in a vulnerable population in the South of Spain

• DOI: 10.1093/gastro/goad077
• Publication Date: 2024-01-23T18:53:50Z
• Authors: José María Pinazo...; Jesús Aranda; Alberto Manuel Ga...; Ramiro Alcántara; Aida Ortega-Alonso; Enrique Del Campo...; Encarnación Clavijo; M Dolores García-...; Juan Jesús Ruiz Ruiz; Mónica Morales-He...; Vanesa Valle-López; Rosa Martín-Alarcón; Isabel Viciana; Juan Bautista Jim...; Felix Fernández-G...; Juan Pedro Toro-O...; Elena Sánchez-Yáñez; Ismael Álvarez-Ál...; Raúl J Andrade; Mercedes Robles-Díaz; Miren García-Cortés
• Keywords: Hepatitis C; Sofosbuvir

Abstract Background Since the introduction of direct-acting antivirals, thousands chronic hepatitis C patients have been successfully treated. However, vulnerable populations a higher prevalence virus (HCV) infection and face barriers that impede their access to antivirals. We carried out an HCV microelimination program focused on population groups in Malaga. Methods People drug addiction treatment centers homeless shelters Malaga who participated between October 2020 2021 were included. After providing participants with educational information HCV, dry drop test (DDT) was used collect blood for subsequent screening infection. The diagnosed scheduled comprehensive healthcare assessments, including tests, ultrasonography, elastography, prescription all conducted single hospital visit. Sustained viral response (SVR) analysed 12 weeks after end treatment. Results Of 417 persons invited participate, 271 (65%) agreed participate program. These screened 28 them (10%). C-infected had mean age 53 ± 9 years; 86% males 93% or users. Among 23 infection, genotype 1a predominated (74%). Medical exams showed 19% (4/21) advanced fibrosis (F3–4), 5% (1/21) portal hypertension. Finally, infected received glecaprevir/pibrentasvir sofosbuvir/velpatasvir SVR confirmed 22 (96%). Conclusions Drug users people than general population. activity tools achieved high participation rate, easy access, rate despite SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.