Prevalence of hepatitis C among injection drug users in England and Wales: Is harm reduction working?

V.D. Hope, A. Judd, M. Hickman, T. Lamagni, G. Hunter, G.V. Stimson, S. Jones, L. Donovan, J.V. Parry and O.N. Gill

American Journal of Public Health, 2001, vol. 91, issue 1, 38-42

Abstract: Objectives. This study sought to establish the prevalence of hepatitis C antibodies (anti-HCV) and hepatitis B antibodies (anti-HBc) among injection drug users in England and Wales. Methods. A voluntary cross-sectional survey collected oral fluid samples and behavioral information; 2203 injectors were recruited through drug agencies, and 758 were recruited in the community. Results. Prevalence was 30% for anti-HCV, 21% for anti-HBc, and 0.9% for HIV antibodies. Anti-HCV prevalence rates were significantly greater among those with longer injecting careers, those in older age groups, those residing in London, those recruited in drug agencies, those positive for anti-HBc, and those with a previous voluntary HIV test. Conclusions. Anti-HCV prevalence rates among injectors in England and Wales, where comprehensive harm reduction programs exist, are lower than rates in other industrialized countries.

Date: 2001
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:aph:ajpbhl:2001:91:1:38-42_3

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