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Epidemiology of hepatitis c virus in pennsylvania state prisons, 2004-2012: Limitations of 1945-1965 birth cohort screening in correctional settings

Author

Listed:
  • Larney, S.
  • Mahowald, M.K.
  • Scharff, N.
  • Flanigan, T.P.
  • Beckwith, C.G.
  • Zaller, N.D.

Abstract

Objectives. We described hepatitis C virus antibody (anti-HCV) prevalence in a state prison system and retrospectively evaluated the case-finding performance of targeted testing of the 1945 to 1965 birth cohort in this population. Methods. We used observational data from universal testing of Pennsylvania state prison entrants (June 2004-December 2012) to determine anti-HCV prevalence by birth cohort. We compared anti-HCV prevalence and the burden of anti-HCV in the 1945 to 1965 birth cohort with that in all other birth years. Results. Anti-HCV prevalence among 101 727 adults entering prison was 18.1%. Prevalence was highest among those born from 1945 to 1965, but most anti-HCV cases were in people born after 1965. Targeted testing of the 1945 to 1965 birth cohort would have identified a decreasing proportion of cases with time. Conclusions. HCV is endemic in correctional populations. Targeted testing of the 1945 to 1965 birth cohort would produce a high yield of positive test results but would identify only a minority of cases. We recommend universal anti-HCV screening in correctional settings to allow for maximum case identification, secondary prevention, and treatment of affected prisoners.

Suggested Citation

  • Larney, S. & Mahowald, M.K. & Scharff, N. & Flanigan, T.P. & Beckwith, C.G. & Zaller, N.D., 2014. "Epidemiology of hepatitis c virus in pennsylvania state prisons, 2004-2012: Limitations of 1945-1965 birth cohort screening in correctional settings," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 104(6), pages 69-74.
    • Handle: RePEc:aph:ajpbhl:10.2105/ajph.2014.301943_4
    DOI: 10.2105/AJPH.2014.301943
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