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Published on: July 16, 2012

Prevalence of HCV risk factors in Hispanic-American sub populations

Stacey B Trooskin1, Maricruz Vega, Steven K Herrine

  • 1Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA.

Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health
|September 4, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) risk factors are more prevalent in US-born Hispanics and immigrants after residing in the US. Prevention efforts should target recent Hispanic immigrants to mitigate HCV transmission.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Hepatology
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Hepatitis C virus (HCV) poses a significant public health challenge.
  • Understanding risk factor prevalence in diverse subpopulations is crucial for targeted prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of HCV risk factors among Hispanic-American subpopulations in Philadelphia.
  • To identify disparities in risk factor prevalence based on country of origin and duration of US residency.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional study involving 503 Hispanic/Latino patients from four Philadelphia primary care practices.
  • Data collection via self-administered questionnaires on demographics and HCV risk factors.

Main Results:

  • 45% of individuals born in Puerto Rico or mainland US reported HCV risk factors, compared to 25% or less for those from 19 other countries.
  • For individuals born outside the US, each additional year of residency increased HCV risk factor odds by 7%.
  • US-born Hispanics exhibited higher HCV risk factor prevalence than foreign-born Hispanics.

Conclusions:

  • HCV risk factors are notably higher among US-born Hispanics and Hispanic immigrants with longer US residency.
  • Findings support prioritizing HCV prevention strategies for recent Hispanic immigrants.

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