Hepatitis C Infection among Intravenous Drug Users. “A Silent Disease in an Invisible Population”

Abstract

Objective: Hepatitis is defined as an inflammation of the liver. Our objective is to highlight the devastating effects Hepatitis C, a subtype of viral hepatitis, has on a subpopulation of patients struggling with Alcohol use disorder (AUD) and SUDs (Substance Use Disorders) and specially IDUs, (Intravenous Drug Users) also known as the invisible population. We also aim to describe the clinical picture, viral genotypes and available treatments. Methods: A literature review was conducted, specifically looking at published materials about the objectives above. Conclusion: Hepatitis C is considered a global health problem. Described as a “silent disease” its complications include liver cirrhosis, end-stage liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma, co-infection with HIV and super infections with different strains of HCV. Recent advances in understanding HCV virology have led to the development of new drugs targeting replication process and proving to be very successful in clearing the infection it is important to note that there is no vaccine yet for HCV infection.