Treatment of chronic hepatitis C in a state correctional facility

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection affects a significant portion of the incarcerated population, with approximately 1 in 4 individuals in U.S. correctional facilities infected.
• Limited data exists on the treatment outcomes of HCV within correctional settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and outcomes of Hepatitis C virus (HCV) therapy administered to individuals within a correctional facility.
• To describe the process and results of treating chronic HCV infection in an incarcerated population.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective, descriptive observational study was conducted.
• The study involved 93 inmates diagnosed with chronic Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection at the Rhode Island Department of Corrections.
• Treatment consisted of interferon-alpha in combination with ribavirin, with outcomes assessed by HCV RNA levels 6 months post-treatment.

Main Results:

• Viral clearance was achieved in 63% (50 of 79) of patients 6 months after completing therapy.
• A sustained virologic response was observed in 46% (26 of 57) of patients 6 months post-treatment.
• Treatment response rates in the incarcerated population were comparable to those reported in community-based studies.

Conclusions:

• Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is effectively treatable in the incarcerated population using interferon and ribavirin.
• The correctional setting presents a viable and safe environment for managing HCV infection, even in individuals with co-occurring addiction and psychiatric conditions.