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Hepatitis and HIV in Northern Ireland prisons: a cross-sectional study
K Danis1, L Doherty2, M McCartney3
1European Programme for Intervention Epidemiology Training (EPIET).
Summary
Prevalence of bloodborne viruses like hepatitis C (HCV) and hepatitis B (HBV) was low in Northern Ireland prisons. However, drug injecting and equipment sharing occurred, posing a challenge for UK health services.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
- Criminology
Background:
- Bloodborne viruses (BBVs) pose significant health risks within correctional facilities.
- Understanding BBV prevalence and risk behaviors in prisons is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of hepatitis C (HCV), hepatitis B (HBV), and HIV among inmates in Northern Ireland (NI) prisons.
- To estimate the extent of self-reported risk behaviors, including injecting drug use and equipment sharing.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study was conducted across all three NI prisons.
- Prevalence of antibodies to HCV, HBV core antigen, and HIV was determined.
- Self-reported data on drug injecting and equipment sharing practices were collected.
Main Results:
- Low prevalence rates were observed: 0.75% for HBV, 1.1% for HCV, and 0% for HIV.
- 11% of inmates reported ever injecting drugs, with 20% starting in prison and 12% sharing equipment.
- Injecting drug use was significantly associated with HCV and HBV infection.
Conclusions:
- The low BBV prevalence in NI prisons contrasts with international findings, potentially due to unique sociopolitical factors.
- Despite awareness of risks, high-risk behaviors persist within the prison population.
- Addressing risk behaviors and preventing BBV transmission in prisons presents a challenge for UK health services.
