Antiviral treatment for chronic hepatitis C in illicit drug users: a systematic review.
According to recent World Health Organization data, approximately 170-200 million people worldwide are infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). At present, illicit drug users (IDUs) constitute the largest group of individuals infected with HCV in industrial countries. Between 50% and 90% of IDUs are estimated to be positive for anti-HCV antibodies and most of the new infections occur in IDUs. The aim of our review is to focus on tertiary prevention of HCV infection among IDUs. We review strategies to prevent HCV infection and disease progression, attitude to antiviral treatment, access to specific HCV therapy and data of efficacy and safety of antiviral treatment among IDUs.
Zanini
Barbara
B
Gastroenterology Unit, University and Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.
Lanzini
Alberto
A
D000998:Antiviral Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D001294:Attitude to Health; D018450:Disease Progression; D055030:Drug Users; D006297:Health Services Accessibility; D019698:Hepatitis C, Chronic / Q000150:complications* / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000635:transmission; D006801:Humans; D055118:Medication Adherence; D015819:Substance Abuse, Intravenous / Q000150:complications*; D055512:Tertiary Prevention
D000998:Antiviral Agents