Racial Disparities in Treatment and Outcomes of Patients With Hepatitis C Undergoing Elective Total Joint Arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: African Americans have the highest prevalence of chronic Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Racial disparities in outcome are observed after elective total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This study sought to identify if disparities in treatments and outcomes exist between Black and White patients who have HCV prior to elective THA and TKA. METHODS: Patient demographics, comorbidities, HCV characteristics, perioperative variables, in-hospital outcomes, and postoperative complications at 1-year follow-up were collected and compared between the 2 races. Patients who have preoperative positive viral load (PVL) and undetectable viral load were identified. Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests were used to compare categorical variables, while 2-tailed Student's Kruskal-Wallis t-tests were used for continuous variables. A P value of less than .05 was statistically significant. RESULTS: The liver function parameters, including aspartate aminotransferase and model for end-stage liver disease scores, were all higher preoperatively in Black patients undergoing THA (P = .01; P < .001) and TKA (P = .03; P = .003), respectively. Black patients were more likely to undergo THA (65.8% versus 35.6%; P = .002) and TKA (72.1% versus 37.3%; 0.009) without receiving prior treatment for HCV. Consequently, Black patients had higher rates of preoperative PVL compared to White patients in both THA (66% versus 38%, P = .006) and TKA (72% versus 37%, P < .001) groups. Black patients had a longer length of stay for both THA (3.7 versus 3.3; P = .008) and TKA (4.1 versus 3.0; P = .02). CONCLUSIONS: The HCV treatment prior to THA and TKA with undetectable viral load has been shown to be a key factor in mitigating postoperative complications, including joint infection. We noted that Black patients were more likely to undergo joint arthroplasty who did not receive treatment and with a PVL. While PVL rates decreased over time for both races, a significant gap persists for Black patients.

Hepatitis C infection and chronic kidney disease among Hispanics/Latinos.

ABSTRACT: Viral infections, including hepatitis C, can cause secondary glomerular nephropathies. Studies suggest that hepatitis C virus infection (HCV+) is a risk factor for chronic kidney disease (CKD) but evidence of this relationship is lacking among Hispanics/Latinos. We examined the association between HCV+ and incident CKD in a prospective cohort of Hispanics/Latinos enrolled in the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos. HCV+ was defined by detectable HCV antibodies with additional confirmation through HCV RNA or recombinant immunoblot assay testing. Incident CKD was defined by an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 or sex-specific threshold for albuminuria measured during follow-up. We used Poisson regression to estimate incidence rate ratios (IRR) of CKD and changes in eGFR- or albuminuria-based risk stages, separately. We used linear regression to estimate associations with continuous, annualized changes in eGFR and albuminuria.Over a follow-up period of 5.9 years, 712 incident CKD events occurred among 10,430 participants. After adjustment for demographic characteristics and comorbidities, HCV+ was not associated with incident CKD, defined by eGFR and albuminuria thresholds (IRR 1.29, 95% Confidence Interval 0.61, 2.73). HCV+ was significantly associated with higher eGFR risk stages (IRR 2.39, 95% CI 1.47, 3.61) with most participants transitioning from stage G1 to G2. HCV+ was associated with a continuous, annualized eGFR decline of -0.69 mL/min/m2/year (95% CI -1.23, -0.16). This large, cohort study did not find evidence of a strong association between HCV+ and new-onset CKD among Hispanics/Latinos. HCV infection may not be associated with risk of CKD among Hispanics/Latinos, although treatment with direct-acting antivirals is recommended for all HCV+ individuals, including those with established CKD or end-stage kidney disease.

Hepatitis C and Racial Disparity in Liver Transplant Waitlist Additions : Separate Not Equal.

BACKGROUND: In 2014, direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) became available for hepatitis C virus (HCV) with successful results. Since their implementation, the rate of HCV waitlist (WL) for liver transplantation (LT) has decreased, but significant ethnic disparities exist. We hypothesized that the rate of decline for HCV WL for LT is different across the various racial groups. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort study using Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network data reports of adult LT candidates from 2014 to 2018. RESULTS: Overall, there was a decline in HCV WL rates for all ethnic groups (Caucasians, African Americans [AA], and Hispanics). However, the WL rates were significantly higher in AA compared with Caucasians each year, and this trend was continuous across the 5-year period. There were no differences in WL rates between Caucasians and Hispanics. DISCUSSION: The results show that health care disparities related to HCV disproportionately affect AA. The factors associated with this disparity need to be explored further to develop mechanisms to address these differences. By understanding the HCV treatment disparities across racial groups, modifications to HCV treatment nationwide can be adopted. Additional emphasis should be placed on AA to help reduce their WL rate, as well as redistributing resources to promote health care equity.

Proportion and Characterization of Co-infections of HIV and Hepatitis C or Hepatitis B among People with HIV in Alabama, 2007-2016.

OBJECTIVES: People living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have an increased risk of other infections, including viral hepatitis, which can complicate the treatment and progression of the disease. We sought to characterize Alabama cases of HIV co-infected with hepatitis C virus or hepatitis B virus. METHODS: Using surveillance data, we defined co-infection as a person identified as having hepatitis C or hepatitis B and HIV during 2007-2016. We compared demographics, outcomes, and risk factors for co-infected versus monoinfected individuals with HIV. We mapped co-infected individuals' distribution. RESULTS: Of 5824 people with HIV, 259 (4.4%) were co-infected with hepatitis C (antibody or RNA positive) and 145 (2.5%) with hepatitis B (surface antigen, e antigen, or DNA positive) during 2007-2016. Individuals with HIV and hepatitis C had a greater odds of injection drug use (adjusted odds ratio 9.7; 95% confidence interval 6.0-15.5). Individuals with HIV and hepatitis B had a greater odds of male-to-male sexual contact (adjusted odds ratio 1.7; 95% confidence interval 1.1-2.6). Co-infection was greater in urban public health districts. CONCLUSIONS: We identified risk behaviors among Alabama populations associated with increased odds for HIV and viral hepatitis co-infection. Outreach, prevention, testing, and treatment resources can be targeted to these populations.

Impact of Interferon-Based Treatment on Quality of Life and Work-Related Productivity of Korean Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C.

Background/Aims: Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections put patients at risk of serious liver disease and adversely affects patient quality of life (QoL). MOSAIC (International Multicenter Prospective Observational Study to Evaluate the Epidemiology, Humanistic and Economic Outcomes of Treatment for Chronic Hepatitis C Virus) was a prospective, non-interventional, international, multicenter study that aimed to describe the epidemiology of the infection, the impact of the infection on health-related QoL (HRQoL) and daily activities, and healthcare resource use related to HCV and treatment. Here, we present the results on HRQoL and daily activity impairment in consecutively enrolled South Korean patients treated with interferon (IFN)-containing regimens prospectively followed for up to 48 weeks. Methods: General HRQoL, HCV-specific HRQoL, perceived health state, and work/general activity impairments were measured using the EuroQoL 5-dimension 5-level (EQ-5D-5L), HCV patient-reported outcomes (HCV-PRO), EQ-5D Visual Analog Scale, and Work Productivity and Activity Impairment questionnaires, respectively. Results: Thirty-three of the 100 enrolled patients initiated IFN-based treatment, with an intended duration of 24 weeks for 20 patients and 48 weeks for 12 patients; this information was missing for one patient. Fourteen patients (42.4%) prematurely withdrew. After treatment initiation, IFN-treated patients showed a trend towards deterioration of both general (baseline: 0.87±0.103, week 4: 0.77±0.153) and HCV-specific (baseline: 76.2±19.5, week 4: 68.2±22.3) HRQoL. The scores recovered somewhat towards the end of treatment (EOT) (0.84±0.146 for EQ-5D-5L and 70.8±21.9 for HCV-PRO). The perceived health state and work/general activity impairment displayed similar temporal patterns. Conclusions: Initiating IFN-based treatment prompted some deterioration in general and HCV-related HRQoL, accompanied by impaired daily activities and most work productivity measures; however, the HRQoL and productivity scores improved towards the EOT. HRQoL impairment upon treatment initiation likely contributed to treatment discontinuation.

Hepatitis C infection among men who have sex with men living with HIV in New York City, 2000-2015.

OBJECTIVES: To calculate the rate of hepatitis C virus (HCV) among HIV-infected men who have sex with men (MSM) with no reported history of injection drug use (IDU), and to assess whether disparities exist in HIV/HCV coinfection by race/ethnicity and neighbourhood poverty level within this population in New York City. METHODS: HIV-positive men who reported sex with men and did not report IDU at the time of HIV diagnosis, diagnosed through 2015 and alive as of 2000, were matched to people with HCV first reported to the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene between 2000 and 2015. Those with HCV reported before or within 90 days of HIV infection were excluded. A multivariable Cox proportional hazards model was fit to compare the association between HCV diagnosis, race/ethnicity and neighbourhood poverty level. RESULTS: From 2000 to 2015, 54 488 non-IDU MSM were diagnosed with HIV, of whom 2762 (5.1%) were diagnosed with HCV after HIV diagnosis, yielding an overall age-adjusted HCV diagnosis rate of 512 per 100 000 person-years. HIV/HCV coinfection was significantly higher among non-Latino blacks (adjusted HR (aHR)=1.24, 95% CI 1.11 to 1.40) compared with non-Latino whites and among persons living in high-poverty neighbourhoods compared with those in low-poverty neighbourhoods (aHR=1.17, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.35) after stratification by year of HIV diagnosis. CONCLUSION: Disparities in HIV/HCV coinfection among HIV-positive MSM were observed by race/ethnicity and neighbourhood poverty level. Routine HCV screening is recommended for people infected with HIV. People coinfected with HIV and HCV should be linked to HCV care, treated and cured to reduce morbidity and mortality, and to avoid ongoing HCV transmission.

Hepatitis C Virus Screening and Care: Complexity of Implementation in Primary Care Practices Serving Disadvantaged Populations.

Background: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) disproportionately affects disadvantaged communities. Objective: To examine processes and outcomes of Screen, Treat, Or Prevent Hepatocellular Carcinoma (STOP HCC), a multicomponent intervention for HCV screening and care in safety-net primary care practices. Design: Mixed-methods retrospective analysis. Setting: 5 federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) and 1 family medicine residency program serving low-income communities in diverse locations with largely Hispanic populations. Patients: Persons born in 1945 through 1965 (baby boomers) who had never been tested for HCV and were followed through May 2018. Intervention: The Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance (RE-AIM) model guided implementation and evaluation. Test costs were covered for uninsured patients. Measurements: All practices tested patients for anti-HCV antibody (anti-HCV) and HCV RNA. For uninsured patients with chronic HCV in 4 practices, quantitative data also enabled assessment of HCV staging, specialist teleconsultation, direct-acting antiviral (DAA) treatment, and sustained virologic response (SVR). Implementation fidelity and adaptation were assessed qualitatively. Results: Anti-HCV screening was done in 13 334 of 27 700 baby boomers (48.1%, varying by practice from 19.8% to 71.3%). Of 695 anti-HCV-positive patients, HCV RNA was tested in 520 (74.8%; 48.9% to 92.9% by practice), and 349 persons (2.6% of those screened) were diagnosed with chronic HCV. In 4 FQHCs, 174 (84.9%) of 205 uninsured patients with chronic HCV had disease staging, 145 (70.7%) had teleconsultation review, 119 (58.0%) were recommended to start DAA therapy, 82 (40.0%) initiated free DAA therapy, 74 (36.1%) completed therapy (27.8% to 60.0% by practice), and 70 (94.6% of DAA completers) achieved SVR. Implementation was promoted by multilevel practice engagement, patient navigation, and anti-HCV screening with reflex HCV RNA testing. Limitation: No control practices were included, and data were missing for some variables. Conclusion: Despite a similar framework for STOP HCC implementation, performance varied widely across safety-net practices, which may reflect practice engagement as well as infrastructure or cost challenges beyond practice control. Primary Funding Source: Cancer Prevention & Research Institute of Texas and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

Suboptimal SVR rates in African patients with atypical genotype 1 subtypes: Implications for global elimination of hepatitis C.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: HCV subtypes which are unusual in Europe are more prevalent in the African region, but little is known of their response to direct-acting antivirals (DAAs). These include non-1a/1b/ non-subtypeable genotype 1 (G1) or non-4a/4d (G4). In this report we aimed to describe the genotype distribution and treatment outcome in a south London cohort of African patients. METHODS: We identified all patients born in Africa who attended our clinic from 2010-2018. Information on HCV genotype, treatment regimen and outcome were obtained. Non-subtypeable samples were analysed using Glasgow NimbleGen next-generation sequencing (NGS). Phylogenetic analysis was carried out by generating an uncorrected nucleotide p-distance tree from the complete coding regions of our sequences. RESULTS: Of 91 African patients, 47 (52%) were infected with an unusual subtype. Fourteen novel, as yet undesignated subtypes (G1*), were identified by NGS. Three individuals were infected with the same subtype, now designated as subtype 1p. Baseline sequences were available for 22 patients; 18/22 (82%) had baseline NS5A resistance-associated substitutions (RASs). Sustained virological response (SVR) was achieved in 56/63 (89%) overall, yet only in 21/28 (75%) of those with unusual G1 subtypes, with failure in 3/16 G1*, 1/2 G1p and 3/3 in G1l. Six treatment failures occurred with sofosbuvir/ledipasvir compared to 1 failure on a PI-based regimen. The SVR rate for all other genotypes and subtypes was 35/35 (100%). CONCLUSIONS: Most individuals in an unselected cohort of African patients were infected with an unusual genotype, including novel subtype 1p. The SVR rate of those with unusual G1 subtypes was 75%, raising concern about expansion of DAAs across Africa. Depending on the regimen used, higher failure rates in African cohorts could jeopardise HCV elimination. LAY SUMMARY: Direct-acting antiviral medications are able to cure hepatitis C in the majority of patients. The most common genotype of hepatitis C in Europe and the United States is genotype 1a or 1b and most clinical trials focused on these genotypes. We report that in a group of African patients, most of them had unusual (non-1a/1b) genotype 1 subtypes, and that the cure rate in these unusual genotypes was lower than in genotypes 1a and 1b.

Patterns and co-occurrence of risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma in four Asian American communities: a cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate risk factor patterns and the simultaneous occurrence of multiple risk factors in the viral, metabolic and lifestyle domains among Asian Americans, who have had the highest mortality rates from hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). SETTING: Sacramento County, California, USA. PARTICIPANTS: Eligible participants were county residents ages 18 and older who had not been screened for chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) and were born in a CDC-defined endemic area or whose parent was born in that area. Of 1004 enrolled, 917 were foreign-born Chinese (130 women, 94 men), Hmong (133 women, 75 men), Korean (178 women, 90 men) or Vietnamese (136 women, 81 men) with complete risk factor data. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES: We tested participants for HBV and chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV); measured haemoglobin A1c and waist circumference; and recorded self-reported history of diabetes, hypertension, alcohol use and smoking status. We identified risk factor patterns using cluster analysis and estimated gender-specific age-standardised prevalence rates. RESULTS: We identified four patterns: (1) viral (chronic HBV or HCV); (2) lifestyle (current smoker or alcohol user, no viral); (3) metabolic (≥2 metabolic, no lifestyle or viral); and (4) lower risk (≤1 metabolic, no lifestyle or viral). Vietnamese men (16.3%, 95% CI 7.4% to 25.3%) and Hmong women (15.1%, 95% CI 7.8% to 22.5%) had the highest viral pattern prevalence. Hmong women had the highest metabolic (37.8%, 95% CI 29.8% to 45.9%), and Vietnamese men the highest lifestyle (70.4%, 95% CI 59.1% to 81.7%) pattern prevalence. In multiple domains, Hmong men and women were most likely to have viral+metabolic risk factors (men: 14.4%, 95% CI 6.0% to 22.7%; women: 11.9%, 95% CI 5.6% to 18.3%); Vietnamese men were most likely to have lifestyle+viral (10.7%, 95% CI 2.7% to 18.8%), and lifestyle+metabolic but not viral (46.4%, 95% CI 34.4% to 58.5%) risk factors. CONCLUSIONS: Efforts to reduce HCC must comprehensively address multiple risk factors. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT02596438.

The impact of increased immigration to Sweden on the incidence and treatment of patients with HCC and underlying liver disease.

Background: Sweden has traditionally been considered a country with a low incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the increasing number of immigrants from areas with a high incidence of HCC might affect the number of HCC patients in Sweden. Aim: To examine trends in the incidence, treatment and overall survival of patients with HCC and an underlying liver disease (ULD) from a restricted, well-defined region of Sweden, between 2000 and 2014. Patients and methods: Nine hundred and eight patients with HCC were identified. Subjects were grouped into 5-year periods, and analysed for HCC diagnosis, ULD, staging and treatment selection in populations born outside Sweden versus non-immigrants and patient survival. The regions were Africa, Asia, EU-28 together with America and the Nordic countries, eastern Europe and Sweden. Results: Over the time periods, the patients with HCC and ULD increased. More patients from Africa had HCC and ULD than what would have been expected based on the number of immigrants from this region and they were also significantly younger than Sweden-born patients. For patients from Africa, Asia and eastern Europe; viral hepatitis was dominating ULDs. Patients from Africa, Asia and eastern Europe were subjected to liver transplantation (LT) in higher proportions than patients from Sweden. The survival rate for patients from eastern Europe was significantly better. Conclusions: Immigration increased the incidence of HCC and the need for active treatment such as LT. This fact raises the question of whether immigrants from regions with a high incidence of HCC ought to be subjected to mandatory hepatitis B and C virus (HBV and HCV) diagnosis and consequent liver ultrasounds for diagnosis of occult HCC. With such strategies, the morbidity and mortality of HCC could be reduced.

Epidemiologic features of a large hepatitis C cohort evaluated in a major health system in the western United States.

INTRODUCTION AND AIM: Real-world epidemiologic data to guide hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related public health initiatives are lacking. The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence and epidemiological characteristics of a large cohort of patients with an HCV diagnosis evaluated in one of the largest health systems in the United States. MATERIALS AND METHODS: De-identified demographic and clinical data were extracted from the electronic health record for patients actively followed within the Providence Health & Services health care system. Rates of HCV prevalence and co-morbid illnesses among HCV-infected patients were determined. RESULTS: Among 2,735,511 active patients, 23,492 (0.86%) were found to have evidence of HCV infection, the majority of which were Caucasian (78.2%) and born between the years 1945 and 1965 (68.3%). In comparison to Caucasians, higher rates of HCV infection were found among Native Americans (2.5% vs. 0.95%, p<0.001). Compared to HCV-negative patients, a greater proportion of HCV-positive patients had diabetes mellitus (18.7 vs. 8.9%, p<0.0001), chronic kidney disease (4.4 vs. 1.8%, p<0.0001), end-stage renal disease necessitating hemodialysis (2.6 vs. 0.6%, p<0.0001), and HIV co-infection (2.4 vs. 0.2, p<0.0001). Nearly two-thirds (62.1%) of HCV patients had government-sponsored insurance, and 93.0% of treated patients resided in urban settings. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of HCV infection in this large health care system serving the Pacific Northwest, Alaska, and California was lower than prior population-based estimates and may reflect real-world prevalence rates among patients not selected for risk-based screening. Native Americans are disproportionately affected by HCV and may warrant targeted screening.

Barriers to treatment of chronic hepatitis C with direct acting antivirals in an urban clinic.

INTRODUCTION AND AIM: Direct-acting antiviral (DAA) agents are highly effective for treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) yet access to treatment remains a serious challenge. The aim of this study was to identify barriers to treatment initiation with DAA-containing regimens in an urban clinic setting. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective cohort of all chronic HCV patients seen in an urban academic practice in Jacksonville, FL, USA from 1/2014 to 1/2017 was analyzed. Baseline characteristics were recorded and a review of medical records was performed to identify barriers to treatment initiation and overall success rates. RESULTS: Two-hundred and forty patients with chronic HCV were analyzed. Fifty-six percent of patients were African-American and 63% were insured through Medicaid/county programs or uninsured. Sixty-nine percent had barriers to initiating antiviral therapy categorized as psychosocial (n=112), provider (n=26), medical (n=20), and insurance-related factors (n=7). The most commonly encountered psychosocial barriers included failure to keep appointments (79/240, 33%), active substance abuse (18/240, 8%), and failure to obtain laboratory testing (11/240, 5%). Overall, only 27% of patients evaluated were initiated on DAA-containing regimens with 18% reaching SVR12 within the 36-month study period. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, only 27% of patients who presented to an urban academic practice with chronic HCV received DAA-containing regimens over a 36-month period. Psychosocial issues were the major barriers to antiviral therapy. These findings illustrate the need for an integrated approach that addresses psychosocial factors as well as comorbidities and adherence to care in order to increase rates of HCV treatment in at risk patients.

The health equity implementation framework: proposal and preliminary study of hepatitis C virus treatment.

BACKGROUND: Researchers could benefit from methodological advancements to advance uptake of new treatments while also reducing healthcare disparities. A comprehensive determinants framework for healthcare disparity implementation challenges is essential to accurately understand an implementation problem and select implementation strategies. METHODS: We integrated and modified two conceptual frameworks-one from implementation science and one from healthcare disparities research to develop the Health Equity Implementation Framework. We applied the Health Equity Implementation Framework to a historical healthcare disparity challenge-hepatitis C virus (HCV) and its treatment among Black patients seeking care in the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). A specific implementation assessment at the patient level was needed to understand any barriers to increasing uptake of HCV treatment, independent of cost. We conducted a preliminary study to assess how feasible it was for researchers to use the Health Equity Implementation Framework. We applied the framework to design the qualitative interview guide and interpret results. Using quantitative data to screen potential participants, this preliminary study consisted of semi-structured interviews with a purposively selected sample of Black, rural-dwelling, older adult VA patients (N = 12), living with HCV, from VA medical clinics in the Southern part of the USA. RESULTS: The Health Equity Implementation Framework was feasible for implementation researchers. Barriers and facilitators were identified at all levels including the patient, provider (recipients), patient-provider interaction (clinical encounter), characteristics of treatment (innovation), and healthcare system (inner and outer context). Some barriers reflected general implementation issues (e.g., poor care coordination after testing positive for HCV). Other barriers were related to healthcare disparities and likely unique to racial minority patients (e.g., testimonials from Black peers about racial discrimination at VA). We identified several facilitators, including patient enthusiasm to obtain treatment because of its high cure rates, and VA clinics that offset HCV stigma by protecting patient confidentiality. CONCLUSION: The Health Equity Implementation Framework showcases one way to modify an implementation framework to better assess health equity determinants as well. Researchers may be able to optimize the scientific yield of research inquiries by identifying and addressing factors that promote or impede implementation of novel treatments in addition to eliminating healthcare disparities.

Genetic variants in IFIH1 and DDX58 influence hepatitis C virus clearance in Chinese Han population.

AIMS: To investigate the association between two RIG-I-like receptor gene polymorphisms and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in Chinese Han population. METHODS: The current study genotyped two selected SNPs (IFIH1 rs3747517 and DDX58 rs9695310) using TaqMan allelic discrimination assay to assess their association with the susceptibility and clinical outcome of HCV infection among 3065 participants (1545 non-HCV infection individuals, 568 spontaneous HCV clearance cases, and 952 persistent infection patients). RESULTS: IFIH1 rs3747517 (dominant model: Adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 1.34, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.07-1.68; P = 0.009) and DDX58 rs9695310 (dominant model: Adjusted OR = 1.43, 95% CI = 1.15-1.78; P = 0.001) were associated with chronic hepatitis C (CHC). And the risk of CHC increased when people were carrying more unfavorable rs3747517-GA/AA and rs9695310-GC/CC genotypes from zero to two with the chronic rates of 56.72%, 59.38%, and 69.01%, respectively (Ptrend < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Genetic variations at IFIH1 rs3747517 and DDX58 rs9695310 were independent predictors of chronic hepatitis C in Chinese Han population.

Significant Increase in Risk of Fibrosis or Cirrhosis at Time of HCV Diagnosis for Hispanics With Diabetes and Obesity Compared With Other Ethnic Groups.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Advanced liver disease, which includes fibrosis and cirrhosis, has been reported to be more prevalent in Hispanics patients at the time of diagnosis of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection than non-Hispanic black or non-Hispanic white patients. We performed a propensity score-matched analysis to determine whether metabolic risk factors contribute to this disparity. METHODS: We collected data from persons with 748 HCV infection (22% Hispanic, 53% non-Hispanic black, and 26% non-Hispanic white; 23% with advanced liver disease), born from 1945 through 1965, diagnosed at 6 health care systems in Texas. Advanced liver disease was defined as a FIB-4 index score above 3.25. We examined the association between advanced liver disease and race or ethnicity, metabolic risk (based on diabetes mellitus and body mass index [BMI]) and heavy alcohol use in propensity score-matched analyses. RESULTS: In propensity-score matched models, among those who were obese (BMI ≥30) with a diagnosis of diabetes, the adjusted odds ratio of advanced liver disease for Hispanics vs non-Hispanic black was 7.89 (95% CI, 3.66-17.01) and adjusted odds ratio = 12.49 (95% CI, 3.24-48.18) for Hispanic vs non-Hispanic white patients (both P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: HCV-infected Hispanics with obesity and diabetes have a far higher risk for advanced liver disease than other racial or ethnic groups. These findings highlight the need for HCV treatment and management of probable concurrent fatty liver disease. Even after we accounted for metabolic risk factors, Hispanics were still at higher risk for advanced liver disease, indicating the potential involvement of other factors such as genetic variants.

Race and Hepatitis C Care Continuum in an Underserved Birth Cohort.

BACKGROUND: Birth cohort screening is recommended for hepatitis C virus (HCV) and underserved populations are disproportionally affected by HCV. Little is known about the influence of race on the HCV care continuum in this population. OBJECTIVE: To assess the cascade of HCV care in a large racially diverse and underserved birth cohort. DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study using electronic medical record data abstracted until August 31, 2017. PATIENTS: 34,810 patients born between 1945 and 1965 engaged in primary care between October 1, 2014, and October 31, 2016, within the safety-net clinics of the San Francisco Health Network. MAIN MEASURES: Rate of hepatitis C testing, hepatitis C treatment, and response to therapy. RESULTS: Cohort characteristics were as follows: median age 59 years, 57.6% male, 25.5% White (20.6% Black, 17.7% Latino, 33.0% Asian/Pacific Islander (API), 2% other), and 32.6% preferred a non-English language. 99.7% had an HCV test (95.4% HCV antibody, 4.3% HCVRNA alone). Among HCV antibody-positive patients (N = 4587), 22.9% were not tested for confirmatory HCVRNA. Among viremic patients (N = 3673), 20.8% initiated HCV therapy, 90.6% achieved sustained virologic response (SVR) and 8.1% did not have a SVR test. HCV screening and treatment were highest in APIs (98.7 and 34.7% respectively; p < 0.001). Blacks had the highest chronic HCV rate (22.2%; p < 0.001). Latinos had the lowest SVR rate (81.3%; p = 0.01). On multivariable analysis, API race (vs White, OR 1.20; p = 0.001), presence of HIV co-infection (OR 1.58; p = 0.02), presence of chronic kidney disease (OR 0.47; p < 0.001), English (vs non-English) as preferred language (OR 0.54; p = 0.002), ALT (OR 0.39 per doubling; p < 0.001), and HCVRNA (OR 0.83 per 10-fold increase; p < 0.001) were associated with HCV treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Despite near-universal screening, gaps in active HCV confirmation, treatment, and verification of cure were identified and influenced by race. Tailored interventions to engage and treat diverse and underserved populations with HCV infection are needed.

Race, Age, and Geography Impact Hepatitis C Genotype Distribution in the United States.

GOALS: To determine the impact of geography and patient characteristics on hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype and subtype distribution in a large sample of patients under routine clinical care BACKGROUND:: HCV genotype impacts disease course and response to treatment. Although several studies have reported genotype distribution within specific US populations, there are no comprehensive descriptions in large, geographically diverse cohorts. STUDY: Using data from the Chronic Hepatitis Cohort Study, we present the distribution of HCV genotypes (GT) and subtypes (ST) among a racially diverse cohort of over 8000 HCV-infected patients from four large US health systems. RESULTS: Genotype distribution varied significantly by geographic and demographic factors. In age-adjusted analyses, African American patients had significantly higher prevalence of GT1 (85%) than other racial categories, largely driven by a markedly higher proportion of GT1 subtype b (∼34%) than in Asian/other (24%) and white (21%) patients. GT3 represented an increasing proportion of infections as birth decade progressed, from 4% in patients born before 1946 to 18% of those born after 1976. Within the cohort of "living/uncured" patients, highly elevated alanine aminotransferase (>2 times the upper limit of normal) was significantly more common in GT3 patients, whereas Fibrosis-4 Index scores indicative of cirrhosis were most common in the combined group of GT4&6 patients. CONCLUSION: Distribution of HCV genotypes and subtypes in the United States is more variable than suggested by previous national-level estimates and single-center studies. "Real-world" prevalence data may improve targeting of prevention, screening, and treatment efforts for hepatitis C.

Barriers in Hepatitis C Treatment in Somali Patients in the Direct Acting Antiviral Therapy Era.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment has changed dramatically in the last few years. Our observations suggest that a minority of HCV infected Somalis are treated. In this study, we aimed to evaluate for treatment and health outcome disparities between Somali and non-Somali patients during the direct acting antiviral (DAA) era. METHODS: Patients with HCV seen in the gastroenterology clinic in 2015 were included in the study. Patients were identified using ICD9 and 10 codes. Electronic medical records were analyzed to evaluate for treatment candidacy, acceptance and reasons for refusal of treatment. RESULTS: Genotype 4 followed by 3 were the most common genotypes in the Somalis while genotype 1 was the most common in the non-Somalis. Majority of patients were offered treatment, active alcohol and substance abuse was a common reason for not offering treatment in non-Somalis while the presence of hepatocellular carcinoma was the most common reason in Somalis. Somalis had higher rates of declining treatment given the asymptomatic nature of their disease and the feeling that treatment is not needed. Sustained virologic response rates were comparable in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: Disparities in acceptance of HCV treatment persist in the DAA era. The asymptomatic nature of the infection and potential cultural mistrust makes patients hesitant to undergo treatment. Healthcare providers must find interventions aimed at reducing barriers to treatment and increasing acceptance of HCV treatment.

Comparative effectiveness of 8- and 12-week ledipasvir/sofosbuvir regimens for HCV infection.

BACKGROUND: Real-world studies have aimed to compare the effects of 8- and 12-week ledipasvir/sofosbuvir regimens on sustained virological response (SVR) among HCV infection genotype-1 (HCV-1) treatment-naive patients. Nevertheless, real-world comparative effectiveness studies pose unique challenges, such as confounding by indication, that were not adequately addressed in prior studies. We thus aimed to address limitations in prior studies and compare overall- and subgroup-specific effectiveness of 8- and 12-week ledipasvir/sofosbuvir regimens among HCV-1 treatment-naive patients. METHODS: Patients eligible for our study were aged ≥18 years and initiated 8- or 12-week ledipasvir/sofosbuvir regimens for treatment-naive HCV-1 at an urban public hospital network. We excluded patients with HIV or cirrhosis. We used marginal structural models to estimate overall and subgroup-specific risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence limits (CL) comparing the effect of 8- and 12-week ledipasvir/sofosbuvir regimens on 12-week SVR. RESULTS: Our study population comprised 191 patients. Among both regimens, the majority were aged >50 years, non-Hispanic White and uninsured. The overall risk of SVR was comparable between the 8- and 12-week regimens (RR=1.01, 95% CL: 0.92, 1.11). The risk of SVR did not vary by race/ethnicity (non-Hispanic Black: RR=1.01, 95% CL: 0.84, 1.21; non-Hispanic White: RR=1.01, 95% CL: 0.89, 1.04). CONCLUSIONS: Our real-world results suggest that 8- and 12-week ledipasvir/sofosbuvir have comparable effects on SVR among HCV-1 patients without cirrhosis or HIV. In addition, the comparable effectiveness of 8- and 12-week regimens among non-Hispanic Black individuals adds to the growing body of evidence that supports the removal of race-based treatment guidelines.

Changing Trends in Etiology-Based Annual Mortality From Chronic Liver Disease, From 2007 Through 2016.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Although treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has improved, the prevalence of alcoholic liver disease (ALD) has been increasing, so we need an updated estimate of the burden and etiology-specific mortality of chronic liver diseases. We studied trends in age-standardized mortality of chronic liver diseases in adults at least 20 years old in the United States from 2007 through 2016. METHODS: We collected data from the US Census and National Center for Health Statistics mortality records and identified individuals with HCV infection, ALD, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, or hepatitis B virus infection using ICD-10 codes. We obtained temporal mortality rate patterns using joinpoint trend analysis with estimates of annual percentage change (APC). RESULTS: Age-standardized HCV-related mortality increased from 7.17 per 100,000 persons in 2007 to 8.14 per 100,000 persons in 2013, followed by a marked decrease in the time period at which patients began receiving treatment with direct-acting antiviral agents (from 8.09 per 100,000 persons in 2014 to 7.15 per 100,000 persons in 2016). The APC in HCV mortality increased 2.0%/year from 2007 through 2014 but decreased 6.4%/year from 2014 through 2016. In contrast, age-standardized mortality increased for ALD (APC 2.3% from 2007 through 2013 and APC 5.5% from 2013 through 2016) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (APC 6.1% from 2007 through 2013 and APC 11.3% from 2013 through 2016). Mortality related to hepatitis B virus decreased steadily from 2007 through 2016, with an average APC of -2.1% (95% CI -3.0 to -1.2). Etiology-based mortality in minority populations was higher. HCV-related mortality (per 100,000 persons) was highest in non-Hispanic blacks (10.28) and whites (6.92), followed by Hispanics (5.94), and lowest in non-Hispanic Asians (2.33). Non-Hispanic Asians had higher mortality for hepatitis B virus infection (2.82 per 100,000 vs 1.02 for non-Hispanic blacks and 0.47 for non-Hispanic whites). CONCLUSION: In our population-based analysis of chronic liver disease mortality in the United States, the decrease in HCV-related mortality coincided with the introduction of direct-acting antiviral therapies, whereas mortality from ALD and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease increased during the same period. Minorities in the United States have disproportionately higher mortality related to chronic liver disease.