Microelimination of Hepatitis C in patients with substance use and dual disorders – a Portuguese study

Abstract

Chronic hepatitis C is a serious condition with relevant public health implications. In Portugal, the prevalence of detectable HCV antibodies is about 0,54%, with higher values in risk groups. Compared to the general population, the prevalence of HCV infection is higher in individuals with psychiatric disorders. There are no studies reporting the prevalence of HCV antibodies in Portuguese psychiatric patients, or in patients with substance use disorders.We carried an observational, prospective study during a period of one year, for patients followed at the Dual Pathology Outpatient and Inpatient Unity of the Coimbra Hospital and University Center, and patients were tested for HCV antibodies. Of 149 patients, 17.4% had positive HCV antibodies and 7.38% had detectable HCV RNA. Patients with confirmed CHC were mostly male inpatients, aged 50 to 59 years, and reported unprotected sex with more than one concurrent partner in the previous six months; their main psychiatric diagnosis was “Disorders due to use of multiple specified psychoactive substances, including medications”.This study reports a very high prevalence of positive HCV antibodies and confirmed CHC in patients followed in the Dual Pathology Outpatient and Inpatient Unity. This prevalence is higher than in general Portuguese population.