Dismantling Barriers to Hepatitis B and Delta Screening, Prevention, and Linkage to Care among the PWUD Community in Philadelphia.

The prevalence of hepatitis B and delta viruses (HBV/HDV) among people who use drugs (PWUD) remains largely unknown. In the context of one Philadelphia-based harm reduction organization (HRO), this study aimed to assess HBV/HDV prevalence and facilitate linkage to care. Participants completed a demographic HBV/HDV risk factor survey and were screened for HBV and reflexively for HDV if positive for HBV surface antigen or isolated core antibody. Fisher's exact tests and regression were used to understand relationships between risks and HBV blood markers. Of the 498 participants, 126 (25.3%) did not have hepatitis B immunity, 52.6% had been vaccinated against HBV, and 17.9% had recovered from a past infection. Eleven (2.2%) participants tested positive for isolated HBV core antibody, 10 (2.0%) for HBV surface antigen, and one (0.2%) for HDV antibody. History of incarceration was associated with current HBV infection, while transactional sex and experience of homelessness were predictive of previous exposure. This study found high rates of current and past HBV infection, and a 10% HBV/HDV co-infection rate. Despite availability of vaccine, one quarter of participants remained vulnerable to infection. Findings demonstrate the need to improve low-threshold HBV/HDV screening, vaccination, and linkage to care among PWUD. The study also identified gaps in the HBV/HDV care cascade, including lack of point-of-care diagnostics and lack of support for HROs to provide HBV services.

Mapping and population size estimates of people who inject drugs in Afghanistan in 2019: Synthesis of multiple methods.

INTRODUCTION: Mapping and population size estimates of people who inject drugs (PWID) provide information needed for monitoring coverage of programs and planning interventions. The objectives of this study were to provide the locations and numbers of PWID in eight cities in Afghanistan and extrapolate estimates for the country as a whole. METHODS: Multiple population size estimation methods were used, including key informant interviews for mapping and enumeration with reverse tracking, unique object and service multipliers, capture-recapture, and wisdom of the crowds. The results of the several methods were synthesized using the Anchored Multiplier-a Bayesian approach to produce point estimates and 95% credible intervals (CI). Using the prevalence of PWID in the eight cities and their correlation with proxy indicators, we extrapolated the PWID population size for all of Afghanistan. RESULTS: Key informants and field mapping identified 374 hotspots across the eight cities from December 29, 2018 to March 20, 2019. Synthesizing results of the multiple methods, the number of male PWID in the eight study cities was estimated to be 11,506 (95% CI 8,449-15,093), corresponding to 0.69% (95% CI 0.50-0.90) of the adult male population age 15-64 years. The total number of women who injected drugs was estimated at 484 (95% CI 356-633), corresponding to 0.03% (95% CI 0.02-0.04) of the adult female population. Extrapolating by proxy indicators, the total number of PWID in Afghanistan was estimated to be 54,782 (95% CI 40,250-71,837), men and 2,457 (95% CI 1,823-3,210) women. The total number of PWID in Afghanistan was estimated to be 57,207 (95% CI 42,049-75,005), which corresponds to 0.37% (95% CI 0.27-0.48) of the adult population age 15 to 64 years. DISCUSSION: This study provided estimates for the number of PWID in Afghanistan. These estimates can be used for advocating and planning services for this vulnerable at-risk population.

Psychoactive drugs in the Brazilian public health system: Use profile and associated factors

Abstract The purpose of this study is to estimate the prevalence of and characterize the use of psychoactive drugs among drug users in a Brazilian municipality, relating the findings to factors associated with the consumption of these substances. Through a cross-sectional design, 1,355 drug users from the public health systems community pharmacies were interviewed. Sociodemographic and health-related data were collected, as well as any other prescribed drugs. The prevalence of psychoactive drug use within the last month was 31.0%, with antidepressants and benzodiazepines being the most prescribed (53.5% and 24.6% respectively). Most psychoactive drug users were female (81.9%), lived with a partner (52.6%), had private health insurance (69.2%) and a monthly per-capita income up to one minimum wage (54.0%). The adjusted Odds Ratio (OR) confirmed the following factors to be positively associated with the use of psychoactive drugs: female gender (OR=2.06; 95% CI 1.44; 2.95), age ≥60 years old (OR=1.77; 95% CI 1.26; 2.48), follow-up with a psychologist (OR=4.12; 95% CI 1.84; 5.25), absence of regular physical activity (OR=1.59; 95% CI 1.13; 2.23), and smokers (OR=1.94; 95% CI 1.26; 2.97). Approximately one out of three individuals used at least one psychoactive drug. Health managers should focus the planning and actions aimed at their rational use for these groups, leading to increased overall treatment success

Phylogenetic characteristics of HIV among female cross-border travelers in Yunnan province between 2003 and 2012.

Sexual transmission is currently the main mode of transmission of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). In this study, 181 HIV-infected female cross-border travelers entering Yunnan province were recruited between 2003 and 2012. HIV RNAs were extracted from their frozen serum and gag-pol gene sequences were obtained for phylogenetic and recombination analyses. In total, 131 gag-pol gene sequences were obtained successfully, at a rate of 72.4%. The most prevalent subtypes were CRF01_AE, followed by CRF08_BC, subtypes B and C. The other four subjects were classified as undefined subtypes and other recombinants. The subtype distribution of intravenous drug users was significantly different from that of sexually transmitted infections and unknown groups. The genetic distances of subtype B, C, and CRF01_AE strains were all close to the reference sequences from Yunnan province and Southeast Asian countries. Gene diversity and cocirculation of multiple subtypes were observed in female cross-border travelers, and CRF01_AE was the dominant epidemic subtype. The advantages of these subtype preferences for sexual transmission were obvious in HIV infection and transmission among this population. Our findings also suggest that close attention should be given to the HIV infection status of the female migrant population. In addition, a description of their epidemic characteristics is significant for the surveillance and prevention of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome in the Yunnan province.

Adolescents' Substance Use and Physical Activity Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Importance: Stay-at-home policies related to the COVID-19 pandemic could disrupt adolescents' substance use and physical activity. Objective: To compare adolescents' substance use and physical activity behaviors before and after stay-at-home restrictions. Design, Setting, and Participants: Ongoing prospective cohort study of tobacco use behaviors among ninth- and tenth-grade students enrolled at 8 public high schools in Northern California from March 2019 to February 2020 and followed up from September 2019 to September 2020. Race/ethnicity was self-classified from investigator-provided categories and collected owing to racial/ethnic differences in tobacco and substance use. Exposures: In California, a COVID-19 statewide stay-at-home order was imposed March 19, 2020. In this study, 521 six-month follow-up responses were completed before the order and 485 were completed after the order. Main Outcomes and Measures: The prevalence of substance use (ie, past 30-day use of e-cigarettes, other tobacco, cannabis, and alcohol) and physical activity (active ≥5 days/week) was compared at baseline and follow-up. A difference-in-difference approach was used to assess whether changes from baseline to 6-month follow-up varied if follow-up occurred after the stay-at-home order, adjusting for baseline behaviors and characteristics. All models were weighted for losses to follow-up using the inverse probability method. Weights were derived from a logistic regression model for having a follow-up response (dependent variable), as predicted by baseline characteristics and behaviors. Results: Of 1423 adolescents enrolled at baseline, 1006 completed 6-month follow-up (623 [62%] were female, and 492 [49%] were non-Hispanic White). e-Cigarette use declined from baseline to 6-month follow-up completed before the stay-at-home order (17.3% [89 of 515] to 11.3% [58 of 515]; McNemar χ2 = 13.54; exact P < .001) and 6-month follow-up completed after the stay-at-home order (19.9% [96 of 482] to 10.8% [52 of 482]; McNemar χ2 = 26.16; exact P < .001), but the extent of decline did not differ statistically between groups responding before vs after the stay-at-home order (difference-in-difference adjusted odds ratio, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.47-1.52; P = .58). In contrast, being physically active was unchanged from baseline if follow-up was before the order (53.7% [279 of 520] to 52.9% [275 of 520]; McNemar χ2 = 0.09; exact P = .82) but declined sharply from baseline if follow-up was after the order (54.0% [261 of 483] to 38.1% [184 of 483]; McNemar χ2 = 30.72; exact P < .001), indicating a pronounced difference in change from baseline after the stay-at-home order (difference-in-difference adjusted odds ratio, 0.49; 95% CI, 0.35-0.69; P < .001). Overall in the cohort, reported use of other tobacco, cannabis, and alcohol did not differ meaningfully before and after the order. Conclusions and Relevance: In this cohort, a reduction in e-cigarette use occurred independently of COVID-19 stay-at-home restrictions, but persistent cannabis and alcohol use suggest continued need for youth substance use prevention and cessation support. Declining physical activity during the pandemic is a health concern.

Associations between lifetime classic psychedelic use and markers of physical health.

BACKGROUND: In recent years, there has been significant research on the mental health effects of classic psychedelic use, but there is very little evidence on how classic psychedelics might influence physical health. AIMS: The purpose of the present study was to investigate the associations between lifetime classic psychedelic use and markers of physical health. METHODS: Using data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (2015-2018) with 171,766 (unweighted) adults aged 18 or above in the United States, the current study examined the associations between lifetime classic psychedelic use and three markers of physical health (self-reported overall health, body mass index, and heart condition and/or cancer in the past 12 months) while controlling for a range of covariates. RESULTS: Respondents who reported having tried a classic psychedelic at least once in their lifetime had significantly higher odds of greater self-reported overall health and significantly lower odds of being overweight or obese versus having a normal weight. The association between lifetime classic psychedelic use and having a heart condition and/or cancer in the past 12 months approached conventional levels of significance, with lower odds of having a heart condition and/or cancer in the past 12 months for respondents who had tried a classic psychedelic at least once. CONCLUSION: The results of the present study suggest that classic psychedelics may be beneficial to physical health. Future research should investigate the causal effects of classic psychedelics on physical health and evaluate possible mechanisms.

Marijuana users are likely to report opioid misuse among adults over 50 years in representative sample of the United States (2002-2014).

Background: In the wake of the rising rate of prescription opioid misuse, there has been increased public health interest in the possibility that cannabis might help to curb or prevent opioid use disorder. Previous studies were limited to young adult marijuana use population. Little is known about whether in older adult population, marijuana use is associated with a different type of nonmedical use opioids. We examined the association between marijuana use and nonmedical prescription opioids dependence and use among older adults.Methods: The National Survey on Drug Use and Health is a nationally U.S. representative cross-sectional survey. We analyzed data for 75,949 adults aged ≥ 50 who participated in the year 2002-2014.Results: Within the overall population, 3.8% of the older adults reported past-year marijuana use (estimate 3.5 million older adults Americans). Past-year marijuana use was very common (25%-37%) among nonmedical opioid dependence respondents compared to those who did not report nonmedical opioid dependence and use (3.5%-3.7%). Past-year marijuana user was significantly associated with an increase in odds of reporting opioid dependence (AOR 9.6 95% CI = 5.8-15.7), and past-year nonmedical use opioids (AOR 6.4 95% CI = 5.2-7.8). Illicit drug heroin was the most prevalent nonmedical used opioid (AOR 6.3 95% CI = 5.0-7.9), compared to codeine (AOR 4.5 95% CI = 3.5-5.7), hydrocodone (AOR 4.9 95% CI = 3.8-6.4), methadone or tramadol (AOR 4.9 95% CI = 2.0-12.3).Conclusion: Policymakers and healthcare providers should remain mindful that older adult marijuana users regardless of initial legitimate medical needs are likely to report nonmedical opioid use including illicit drug heroin.

Prevalência do uso de substâncias psicoativas em gestantes e puérperas / Prevalencia del consumo de sustancias psicoactivas en mujeres embarazadas y puérperas / Prevalence of psychoactive substance use in pregnant and puerperal women

Objetivo: investigar a prevalência do uso de substâncias psicoativas em gestantes e puérperas atendidas no ambulatório de um Hospital Escola. Método: pesquisa transversal, descritiva, com amostra de 174 gestantes e puérperas. Na coleta de dados, utilizou-se o instrumento padronizado Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST) e um questionário sociodemográfico e gineco-obstétrico. A análise de dados foi realizada por meio da estatística descritiva. Resultados: a prevalência de uso de substâncias psicoativas entre as gestantes foi de 28,7 % e 1,1% entre as puérperas, com destaque para o álcool e tabaco. O tabaco constitui a substância com maior frequência de uso; que desencadeia maior desejo/urgência de consumo; maior taxa de tentativas de diminuição. Conclusão: o uso de substâncias psicoativas na gestação e puerpério constitui-se um desafio à saúde pública e para os profissionais de saúde, suscitando o desenvolvimento de ações educativas, bem como a captação precoce dessas mulheres.

Objective: to investigate the prevalence of psychoactive substance use in pregnant and puerperal women attended at an outpatient clinic in a teaching hospital. Method: A descriptive transversal research with a sample of 174 pregnant and puerperal women. The Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST) and a sociodemographic and obstetric-gynecologic survey were utilized in data collection. Data analysis was performed through descriptive statistics. Results: the prevalence of psychoactive substance use among pregnant women was of 28.7% and 1.1% among puerperal women, with alcohol and tobacco as highlights. Tobacco constitutes the substance with greater frequency of use, triggering greater desire/urgency of consummation and a higher rate of intake lowering attempts. Conclusion: the use of psychoactive substances among pregnant and puerperal women constitutes a challenge to public health and for health professionals, eliciting the development of educational actions as well as early identification of these women.

Objetivo: investigar la prevalencia del uso de sustancias psicoactivas en mujeres embarazadas y puérperas atendidas en el ambulatorio de un Hospital Escuela. Método: investigación transversal, descriptiva, con una muestra de 174 mujeres embarazadas y puérperas. En la recopilación de datos, se utilizó el instrumento estandarizadoAlcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST) y un cuestionario sociodemográfico y gineco-obstétrico. El análisis de los datos se realizó mediante estadísticas descriptivas. Resultados: la prevalencia del consumo de sustancias psicoactivas entre las embarazadas fue del 28,7%, mientras que entre las puérperas fuel del 1,1%, con destaque para el alcohol y el tabaco. El tabaco constituye la sustancia de mayor frecuencia de uso; que desencadena mayor deseo/urgencia de consumo; mayor tasa de tentativas de disminución. Conclusión: el uso de sustancias psicoactivas en elembarazo y el puerperio constituye un reto para la salud pública y para los profesionales de la salud, suscitando el desarrollo de acciones educativas, así como la captación temprana de estas mujeres.

Association of Treatment With Medications for Opioid Use Disorder With Mortality After Hospitalization for Injection Drug Use-Associated Infective Endocarditis.

Importance: Although hospitalizations for injection drug use-associated infective endocarditis (IDU-IE) have increased during the opioid crisis, utilization of and mortality associated with receipt of medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) after discharge from the hospital among patients with IDU-IE are unknown. Objective: To assess the proportion of patients receiving MOUD after hospitalization for IDU-IE and the association of MOUD receipt with mortality. Design, Setting, and Participants: This retrospective cohort study used a population registry with person-level medical claims, prescription monitoring program, mortality, and substance use treatment data from Massachusetts between January 1, 2011, and December 31, 2015; IDU-IE-related discharges between July 1, 2011, and June, 30, 2015, were analyzed. All Massachusetts residents aged 18 to 64 years with a first hospitalization for IDU-IE were included; IDU-IE was defined as any hospitalization with a diagnosis of endocarditis and at least 1 claim in the prior 6 months for OUD, drug use, or hepatitis C and with 2-month survival after hospital discharge. Data were analyzed from November 11, 2018, to June 23, 2020. Exposure: Receipt of MOUD, defined as any treatment with methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone, within 3 months after hospital discharge excluding discharge month for IDU-IE. Main Outcomes and Measures: The main outcome was all-cause mortality. The proportion of patients who received MOUD in the 3 months after hospital discharge was calculated. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to examine the association of MOUD receipt with mortality, adjusting for sex, age, medical and psychiatric comorbidities, and homelessness. In the secondary analysis, receipt of MOUD was considered as a monthly time-varying exposure. Results: Of 679 individuals with IDU-IE, 413 (60.8%) were male, the mean (SD) age was 39.2 (12.1) years, 298 (43.9%) were aged 18 to 34 years, 419 (72.3) had mental illness, and 209 (30.8) experienced homelessness. A total of 134 individuals (19.7%) received MOUD in the 3 months before hospitalization and 165 (24.3%) in the 3 months after hospital discharge. Of those who received MOUD after discharge, 112 (67.9%) received buprenorphine. The crude mortality rate was 9.2 deaths per 100 person-years. MOUD receipt within 3 months after discharge was not associated with reduced mortality (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.29; 95% CI, 0.61-2.72); however, MOUD receipt was associated with reduced mortality in the month that MOUD was received (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.30; 95% CI, 0.10-0.89). Conclusions and Relevance: In this cohort study, receipt of MOUD was associated with reduced mortality after hospitalization for injection drug use-associated endocarditis only in the month it was received. Efforts to improve MOUD initiation and retention after IDU-IE hospitalization may be beneficial.

Opioid Use and Chronic Infections: The Value of Addressing the Syndemic in Correctional Settings Via Telemedicine Guidance and Broader Use of Long-Acting Medications.

In the United States, we are experiencing linked epidemics (a syndemic) of substance use disorders (SUDs) and infections associated with drug use, including unsafe injecting and unsafe sex in exchange for drugs or money. Current drug laws, together with risk-taking behavior among persons with SUDs, contribute to disproportionately high prevalences of these conditions in correctional settings. Detection and treatment of diseases with a high impact on public health are best addressed in the settings where such conditions are most prevalent (ie, jails and prisons for SUDs and chronic infections). The effectiveness, safety, cost of care. and public health impact of these conditions can be improved by means of broader screening and expanded access to specialty consultations through telemedicine/telehealth, along with broader use of long-acting medications for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus and SUDs. Expanding telemedicine/telehealth, first for specialties which do not require advanced technology (eg, infectious diseases, addictions), can eventually lead to further advancements in correctional healthcare.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus Testing, Diagnosis, Linkage to Care, and Prevention Services Among Persons Who Inject Drugs, United States, 2012-2017.

BACKGROUND: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing and early diagnosis is associated with effective disease management and reduction in HIV transmission among persons who inject drugs (PWID). We examined trends in HIV testing outcomes among PWID during 2012-2017. METHODS: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)-funded HIV testing data submitted by 61 health departments and 150 directly-funded community-based organizations during 2012-2017 were analyzed. We calculated estimated annual percentage changes (EAPC) to assess trends for HIV testing and testing outcomes. RESULTS: A total of 19 739 857 CDC-funded HIV tests were conducted during 2012-2017. Of these, 529 349 (2.7%) were among PWID. The percentage of newly diagnosed HIV increased from .7% in 2012 to .8% in 2017 (EAPC, 4.15%). The percentage interviewed for partner services increased from 46.7% in 2012 to 66.3% in 2017 (EAPC, 1.81%). No significant change was identified in trends for linkage to HIV medical care ≤90 days after diagnosis (EAPC, 0.52%) or referral to HIV prevention services (EAPC, 0.98%). CONCLUSIONS: Human immunodeficiency virus testing data revealed an increasing trend in newly diagnosed HIV among PWID but not linkage to HIV medical care or referral to prevention services. Expanding efforts to increase HIV testing and enhance linkage to services can lead to reductions in HIV transmission and improved health outcomes.

Hepatitis C Among High-Risk Alabamians: Disease Burden and Screening Effectiveness.

BACKGROUND: The effectiveness of hepatitis C testing and linkage-to-care (LTC) is poorly characterized in low-resource jurisdictions facing gaps in harm reduction, including illegality of syringe exchange services. Effectiveness of a community-based test/LTC program was evaluated in Alabama. METHODS: In 2016-2018, shelters, drug treatment centers (DTCs), AIDS organizations, and Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) engaged in screening/LTC. A coordinator navigated individuals to confirm viremia and link to substance use treatment or primary care with hepatitis C prescribers. RESULTS: Point-of-care (POC) tested 4293 individuals (10% [427] antibody-positive, 71% [299/419] RNA performed, 80% [241/299] viremia confirmed) and 93% linked to care (225/241). Electronic medical record (EMR)-based reflex strategy screened 4654 (15% [679] antibody positive, 99% [670/679] RNA performed, 64% [433/679] viremia confirmed) and 85% linked to care (368/433). We observed higher odds of RNA confirmation in EMR-based reflex versus POC (OR, 2.07; P < .0001) and higher odds of LTC in EMR-based reflex versus POC (OR, 1.51; P < .0001). Overall, 53% individuals tested were nonbaby boomers. CONCLUSIONS: In Alabama, screening at high-risk settings identified significant hepatitis C burden and reflex testing outperformed point-of-care linkage indicators. Colocating testing in DTCs and treatment in FQHCs provided key LTC venues to at-risk younger groups.

Uso de sustancias psicoactivas en estudiantes de escuelas secundarias de Rosario (Argentina) / Psychoactive Drugs Use Among High-School Students In Rosario (Argentina)

Resumen El consumo de Sustancias psicoactivas (SPs) es un problema de salud mundial que afecta particularmente a los adolescentes. Por lo tanto, el conocimiento del contacto que los jóvenes tienen con las SPs, permitirá el desarrollo de políticas de prevención. El objetivo del trabajo fue evaluar el contacto con SPs de estudiantes secundarios de Rosario y alrededores. Entre el 2013 y el 2016, contestaron de forma anónima un cuestionario 1064 estudiantes, observándose un aumento significativo del consumo de SPs en el año 2016. Cuando se excluyen el consumo de tabaco y alcohol (SPs legales) el porcentaje permanece constante. El aumento observado se debe al consumo de SPs tales como alcohol y tabaco. Se observó una disminución de la edad de inicio así como un cambio en los porcentajes y patrones de consumo. La SP más consumida fue el alcohol seguida de tabaco o marihuana. Los cambios observados podrían estar relacionados con las edades y los años de cursado de los estudian tes encuestados.

Abstract. Adolescence is characterized by anxiety, peer-pressure, identity search, etc. All these features contribute to experiment with Psychoactive Drugs (P.D.). P.D. use is a global health problem that has its onset during adolescence. The developing of prevention policies according to a specific population needs the knowledge of the levels and patterns of P.D. use. The goal of the present work was to evaluate P.D.'s level of contact and patterns of use among high school students in Rosario (Argentina). Between 2013 and 2016, a total of 1064 students were surveyed. The results showed that P.D. use (at least once in a lifetime) was significantly higher in 2016 compared to previous years. However, when the use of legal vs illegal P.D. was discriminated we found that such increase was due to higher use of alcohol and tobacco; while the illegal P.D. use remained constant. Moreover, in 2016 we found a decrease in the age of onset as well as a change in the patterns of P.D use. However, all these results must be analyzed taking into account intrinsic differences of the sample.

Prevalence and risk factors associated with HIV/hepatitis B and HIV/hepatitis C co-infections among people who inject drugs in Mozambique.

BACKGROUND: There is scare information about HIV co-infections with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and/or hepatitis C virus (HCV) among People Who Inject Drugs (PWID) in Mozambique. This information is critical to ensure the treatment necessary to decrease the progression of liver disease and the transmission of both HIV and hepatitis. We assess the prevalence of HIV, HBV and HCV co-infections as well as associated risk factors among PWID. METHODS: The first Bio-Behavioral Surveillance Survey was conducted in 2013-2014 among persons who self-reported to have ever injected drugs. Using respondent-driven sampling, PWID aged 18 years and older were recruited in two cross-sectional samples in Maputo and Nampula/Nacala, two large urban centers of Mozambique. Rapid screening of HIV, HBV (HBsAg) and HCV was performed on site. Data from participants in both cities were pooled to conduct RDS-weighted bivariate analyses with HIV/HBV and HIV/HCV co-infections as separate outcomes. Unweighted bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to assess correlates of co-infection. RESULTS: Among 492 eligible PWID, 93.3% were male and median age was 32 years [IQR: 27-36]. HIV, HBV and HCV prevalence were respectively 44.9% (95% CI:37.6-52.3), 32.8% (95% CI:26.3-39.5) and 38.3 (95% CI:30.6-45.9). Co-infections of HIV/HBV, HIV/HCV and HIV/HBV/HCV were identified in 13.1% (95% CI:7.2-18.9), 29.5% (95% CI:22.2-36.8) and 9.2% (95% CI:3.7-14.7) of PWID, respectively. Older age, history of needle/syringe sharing and history of injection with used needle/syringe was associated with HIV/HBV co-infection. Living in Maputo city, have older age, history of needle/syringe sharing and history of injection with used needle/syringe was associated with HIV/HCV co-infection. CONCLUSION: There is a high burden of HBV and HCV among HIV-infected PWID in Mozambique. Our results highlight the need for targeted harm reduction interventions that include needle exchange programs and integrated services for the diagnosis and treatment of HIV, HBV and HCV to address these epidemics among PWID. Efforts should be made to strengthen ART coverage in the population as an important treatment strategy for both viruses.

Prevalence and factors associated with psychological distress among key populations in Togo, 2017.

OBJECTIVES: Mental health is a largely neglected issue among in Sub-Saharan Africa, especially among key populations at risk for HIV. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of psychological distress (PD) and to assess the factors associated among males who have sex with males (MSM), female sex workers (FSW) and drug users (DU) in Togo in 2017. STUDY DESIGN: A cross-sectional bio-behavioral study was conducted in August and September 2017 using a respondent-driven sampling (RDS) method, in eight cities in Togo. METHODS: A standardized questionnaire was used to record sociodemographic characteristics and sexual behaviors. The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) and a subset of questions from the Tobacco Questions for Survey were used to assess alcohol and tobacco consumption respectively. PD was assessed with the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale. A blood sample was taken to test for HIV. Descriptive statistics, univariable and multivariable ordinal regression models were used for analysis. RESULTS: A total of 2044 key populations including 449 DU, 952 FSW and 643 MSM with a median age of 25 years, interquartile range (IQR) [21-32] were recruited. The overall prevalence of mild PD among the three populations was 19.9% (95%CI = [18.3-21.8]) and was 19.2% (95%CI = [17.5-20.9]) for severe/moderate PD. HIV prevalence was 13.7% (95%CI = [12.2-15.2]). High age (≥ 25 years) [aOR = 1.24 (95% CI: 1.02-1.50)], being HIV positive [aOR = 1.80 (95% CI: 1.31-2.48)] and hazardous alcohol consumption [aOR = 1.52 (95% CI: 1.22-1.87)] were risk factors for PD. Secondary [aOR = 0.52 (95% CI: 0.42-0.64)] or higher [aOR = 0.46 (95% CI: 0.32-0.64)] education levels were protective factors associated with PD. FSW [OR = 0.55 (95% CI: 0.43-0.68)] and MSM [OR = 0.33 (95% CI: 0.24-0.44)] were less likely to report PD compared with DU. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS: This is the first study conducted among a large, nationally representative sample of key populations in Togo. The prevalence of PD is high among these populations in Togo and was associated to HIV infection. The present study indicates that mental health care must be integrated within health programs in Togo with a special focus to key populations through interventions such as social support groups.

Drug misuse, tobacco smoking, alcohol and other social determinants of tuberculosis in UK-born adults in England: a community-based case-control study.

Addressing social determinants of tuberculosis (TB) is essential to achieve elimination, including in low-incidence settings. We measured the association between socio-economic status and intermediate social determinants of health (SDHs, including drug misuse, tobacco smoking and alcohol), and TB, taking into account their clustering in individuals. We conducted a case-control study in 23-38 years old UK-born White adults with first tuberculosis episode, and randomly selected age and sex frequency-matched community controls. Data was collected on education, household overcrowding, tobacco smoking, alcohol and drugs use, and history of homelessness and prison. Analyses were done using logistic regression models, informed by a formal theoretical causal framework (Directed Acyclic Graph). 681 TB cases and 1183 controls were recruited. Tuberculosis odds were four times higher in subjects with education below GCSE O-levels, compared to higher education (OR = 3.94; 95%CI: 2.74, 5.67), after adjusting for other TB risk factors (age, sex, BCG-vaccination and stays ≥3 months in Africa/Asia). When simultaneously accounting for respective SDHs, higher tuberculosis risk was independently associated with tobacco smoking, drugs use (especially injectable drugs OR = 5.67; 95%CI: 2.68, 11.98), homelessness and area-level deprivation. Population Attributable Fraction estimates suggested that tobacco and class-A drug use were, respectively, responsible for 18% and 15% of TB cases in this group. Our findings suggest that socio-economic deprivation remains a driver of tuberculosis in England, including through drugs misuse, tobacco smoking, and homelessness. These findings further support the integration of health and social services in high-risk young adults to improve TB control efforts.

Left-sided infective endocarditis in persons who inject drugs.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to describe left-sided infective endocarditis (LSIE) in persons who inject drugs (PWID) and compare that group to PWID with non-LSIE and to non-PWID with LSIE. METHODS: Retrospective single-center study of adult IE patients from 2011 to 2018. RESULTS: Of the 333 patients in our cohort, 54 were PWID with LSIE, 75 were PWID with non-LSIE, and 204 were non-PWID with LSIE. When comparing LSIE vs non-LSIE in PWID, the LSIE group was older (median age 35 vs 28.5, p < 0.01), had fewer S. aureus infections (59% vs 92%, p < 0.01), was more likely to have cardiac surgery (31% vs 13%, p < 0.01), and had a higher 10-week mortality (22% vs 5%, p < 0.01). When comparing PWID with LSIE to non-PWID with LSIE, the PWID group were younger (median age 35 vs 46, p < 0.01); had more frequent multi-valve involvement (33% vs 19%, p = 0.04), Staphylococcus aureus infections (54% vs 27%, p < 0.01), and previous IE (24% vs 8%, p < 0.01); and experienced more strokes (54% vs 31%, p < 0.01). Ten-week mortality was similar for LSIE in both PWID and non-PWID (24% vs 20%, p = 0.47). CONCLUSIONS: LSIE in PWID is not uncommon. Compared to non-LSIE in PWID, valve surgery is more common and mortality is higher. For reasons that are unclear, stroke is more frequent in LSIE in PWID than in non-PWID with LSIE but mortality is no different.

Risk of Persistence and Progression of Use of 5 Cannabis Products After Experimentation Among Adolescents.

Importance: While a diverse array of cannabis products that may appeal to youth is currently available, it is unknown whether the risk of persistent cannabis use and progression to higher frequency of use after experimentation differs among cannabis products. Objective: To estimate the comparative relative risk of experimental use of 5 cannabis products on use status and frequency of use among adolescents during 12 months of follow-up. Design, Setting, and Participants: In this cohort study, data were collected from 3065 adolescents at 10 high schools in southern California, with baseline data collected in spring 2016, when students were in 11th grade, and 6-month and 12-month follow-up surveys collected in fall 2016 and spring 2017, when students were in 12th grade. Analyses, conducted from April to June 2019, were restricted to 2685 participants who were light or nonusers of any cannabis product (ie, ≤2 days in the past 30 days) at baseline. Exposures: Number of days of use of each cannabis product (ie, combustible, blunts, vaporized, edible, or concentrated) in the past 30 days at baseline (ie, 1-2 vs 0 days). Main Outcomes and Measures: Past 6-month use (ie, yes vs no) and number of days of use in the past 30 days at 6-month and 12-month follow-ups for each product. Results: Of 2685 individuals in the analytic sample, 1477 (55.0%) were young women, the mean (SD) age was 17.1 (0.4) years, and a plurality (1231 [46.6%]) were Hispanic individuals. Among them, 158 (5.9%) reported combustible cannabis use on 1 to 2 days of the past 30 days at baseline, 90 (3.4%) reported blunt use, 78 (2.9%) reported edible cannabis use, 17 (0.6%) reported vaping cannabis, and 15 (0.6%) reported using cannabis concentrates. In regression models adjusting for demographic characteristics and poly-cannabis product use, statistically stronger associations of baseline use with subsequent past 6-month use at the 6-month and 12-month follow-ups were observed for combustible cannabis use (odds ratio, 6.01; 95% CI, 3.66-9.85) and cannabis concentrate use (odds ratio, 5.87; 95% CI, 1.18-23.80) compared with use of blunts (OR, 2.77; 95% CI, 1.45-5.29) or edible cannabis (OR, 3.32; 95% CI, 1.86-5.95) (P for comparison < .05); vaporized cannabis use (OR, 5.34; 95% CI, 1.51-11.20) was not significantly different from the other products. In similarly adjusted models, we found the association of cannabis use at baseline with mean days of use at the 6-month and 12-month follow-ups was significantly stronger for cannabis concentrate than for other cannabis products; participants who had used cannabis concentrate on 1 to 2 of the past 30 days at baseline (vs 0 days) used cannabis concentrate a mean of 9.42 (95% CI, 2.02-35.50) more days in the past 30 days at the 6-month and 12-month follow-ups (P for comparison < .05). Conclusions and Relevance: Cannabis control efforts should consider targeting specific cannabis products, including combustible cannabis and cannabis concentrate, for maximum public health consequences.

Elevated troponin level as a predictor of inpatient mortality in patients with infective endocarditis in the Southeast United States.

BACKGROUND: Despite recent improvement in management, infective endocarditis (IE) continues to be associated with considerable risk of morbidity and mortality. Early identification of predictors of inpatient mortality is key in improving patient outcomes in IE. The aim of our study was to evaluate the role of serum troponin levels measurements as a marker of increased mortality. METHODS: A case-control study included adult patients with IE admitted to a tertiary care hospital in east Tennessee between December 2012 and July 2017. Cases were defined as patients with definitive IE who died in-hospital; controls were patients who did not die in hospital. First patient admission was included only. Data collected included the patients' demographic and baseline clinical information, microbiological data, injection drug use status, elevated serum troponins levels. RESULTS: Two hundred eighty three patients with definitive IE were included; median (IQR) age was 41 (30-57) years, and 153 (54%) patients were men. One-hundred sixty-four (58%) were injection drug users. The most frequent IE type was: 167 (59%) right-sided, 86 (30%) left-sided, 24 (9%) both left and right-sided, and 10 (4%) device related. The most commonly isolated organism was Staphylococcus aureus (n = 141), and 64% were methicillin-resistant. Two-hundred twelve (75%) patients had a troponin level obtained, and 57 (27%) had an elevated troponin value. Thirty-six (13%) patients died in-hospital; in-hospital mortality was associated elevated troponin values (adjusted odds ratio [adjOR], 7.3; 95%CI, 3.3-15.9), and methicillin-resistant S. aureus IE (adjOR 2.6; 95%CI, 1.2-5.8). Forty-four (16%) patients received IE valve surgery, and none of these patients died in the hospital. CONCLUSION: Inpatient mortality was higher in patients with IE and elevated cardiac troponin levels compared to patients with normal levels.

[Pulmonary complications in cocaine users]. / Complications pulmonaires chez les consommateurs de cocaïne.

Cocaine can be responsible for many psychiatric and/or somatic disorders. The aim of this systematic literature review of data was to expose relations between cocaine use and pulmonary complications. Cocaine can be responsible for acute respiratory symptoms (cough, black sputum, hemoptysis, dyspnea, wheezing, chest pain) and for various pulmonary disorders including barotrauma (pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, subcutaneous emphysema, pneumopericardium), airway damage, asthma, bronchiolitis obliterans with organizing pneumonia, acute pulmonary edema, alveolar hemorrhage, alveolar pneumonia with carbonaceous material, bullous emphysema, acute eosinophilic pneumonia, pulmonary granulomatosis caused by talc or cellulose, interstitial pneumonitis and pulmonary fibrosis, vasculitis, pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary embolism and pulmonary infarction, mycotic pulmonary arterial aneurysms, septic emboli, aspiration pneumonia, community-acquired pneumonia, HIV-related opportunistic infections, latent tuberculosis infection, pulmonary tuberculosis, lung cancer and crack lung. Some of these complications are serious and may have a fatal outcome. Pulmonary function tests, thoracic tomodensitometry, bronchial fibroscopy with bronchoalveolar lavage and lung scintigraphy may be an aid to the diagnosis of these pulmonary compications. Cocaine use must be sought in case of respiratory symptoms in young persons.