Theme: Epidemiology & Public Health Research Year: 2018
Background:
In Sweden knowledge about the general prevalence of anti-HCV or HCV RNA positivity
among incarcerated is absent. The aim of this study was therefore to evaluate the
prevalence of anti-HCV and HCV RNA positivity among Swedish detainees, and also to
estimate the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and
vaccination against HBV.
Methods:
A cross-sectional study of all incarcerated persons (n=667) in the nine prisons in Stockholm
county was conducted in May 2017 (seven prisons) and October 2017 (two prisons). New
prison inmates are recommended tests for anti-HCV, HCV RNA, HBsAg, anti-HBs, anti-HBc
and HIV Ag/Ab at the time of admittance. The results of these tests and demographic data
was collected from the medical records at the prison facilities. Also, the number of HBV
vaccine doses received in prison was registered.
Results:
The mean age was 37.2 years (range 18-77), and the majority (93.4%) were men. 71%
(n=471) had been tested for anti-HCV, 70% (n= 465) for HBsAg and 71% (n=471) for HIV.
The prevalence of positive anti-HCV, HCV RNA, HBsAg and HIV was 17.0%, 11.3%, 1.9%,
and 0.2%, respectively among tested persons. 40.6% (n=271) had evidence of HBV
vaccination among all incarcerated.
Conclusions:
The prevalence of viremic HCV infection among Swedish prisoners is high in comparison to
the general population. Therefore, when aiming for the WHO’s goal of HCV elimination,
prisons could suite as a platform for identification and treatment of HCV infection. Although a
rather high rate of testing for blood-transmitted viruses compared to other countries, there is
still a need to increase the rate of testing, and also vaccination coverage against HBV in
Swedish prisons.
Disclosure of interest:
Dalgard O: research grants from MSD, Abbvie and Gilead. Advisory board: MSD, Abbvie and
Gilead.
Duberg AS has given lectures with honoraria or been consultant to AbbVie, BMS, Gilead,
Janssen and MSD.
Lindahl K has lectured for MSD, Abbvie, Gilead, BMS, Medivir and Roche.
Aleman S has lectured for AbbVie, Bayer, BMS, Gilead, MSD, and has received research
grants from AbbVie and Gilead