National Epidemiological Study about Hepatitis C Virus Infection among Dialysis Patients

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Infectious Diseases
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a significant concern in dialysis patients, increasing risks for cirrhosis and hepatocarcinoma.
• The World Health Organization estimates 3% of the general population has HCV, but prevalence is higher in renal disease populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of HCV in dialysis patients nationwide.
• To calculate the rate of HCV seroconversion in this cohort.
• To identify risk factors associated with HCV seroconversion.

Main Methods:

• A nationwide, multicenter, observational study included 11,238 dialysis patients from 185 centers (176 hemodialysis, 9 peritoneal dialysis).
• Data collected included patient demographics, HCV status, and center characteristics.
• HCV seroconversion was monitored over time.

Main Results:

• The overall prevalence of HCV-positive patients was 3.6%, higher in private (2.7%) versus public (1.18%) centers (P = 0.009).
• HCV prevalence was significantly higher in hemodialysis versus peritoneal dialysis centers, in centers with >15 generators, and those with >70 patients.
• A seroconversion prevalence of 1.3% was observed, with a mean delay of 6.05 years.

Conclusions:

• HCV prevalence in dialysis patients is significant, with variations based on center type and size.
• The observed HCV seroconversion rate is lower than previously reported, potentially indicating effective infection control.
• Further national surveys with standardized diagnostics and treatment are recommended to eradicate HCV in dialysis patients.