HCV Genotype Distribution Among People Who Inject Drug in Turkey: Findings from Multicenter and Cross-Sectional...

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is highly prevalent among people who inject drugs (PWID).
• Understanding HCV genotype distribution is critical for effective management strategies in PWID.
• This study focuses on mapping HCV genotype prevalence across different regions in Turkey.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence and distribution of Hepatitis C virus genotypes among people who inject drugs in Turkey.
• To provide data for developing targeted prevention and treatment strategies for HCV in the PWID population.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, multicenter, cross-sectional study involving 197 anti-HCV antibody-positive PWID.
• Data collected through interviews and blood samples for HCV RNA viral load and genotyping.
• Study conducted across 4 addiction treatment facilities in Turkey.

Main Results:

• Genotype 3 (44.1%) was the most prevalent, followed by genotype 1a (41.9%).
• Genotype 3 dominated in Central Anatolia, while genotypes 1a and 3 showed similar frequencies in the south and northwest.
• A detectable HCV-RNA viral load was found in 9.1% of the participants.

Conclusions:

• HCV genotype distribution in Turkish PWID varies geographically, with genotype 3 being predominant overall.
• Genotype-specific screening and treatment are necessary for HCV elimination in PWID.
• Identifying genotypes is crucial for personalized treatment and national prevention strategies.