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Factors Associated With Perinatal Hepatitis C Screening Among Exposed Children: 2016-2020.
Danica E Kuncio1, Emily J Waterman1, S Z Ginny Robison2
1Philadelphia Department of Public Health, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Pediatrics
|June 13, 2024
Summary
Pediatric hepatitis C virus (HCV) testing completion is low. Testing infants at 2 months significantly improves screening rates, suggesting earlier testing enhances child health outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric infectious diseases
- Hepatology
- Public health
Background:
- Hepatitis C virus (HCV) screening in perinatally exposed children is recommended but underutilized.
- Variations in clinical testing guidelines may impact completion rates.
- This study investigates pediatric care factors influencing perinatal HCV testing adherence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine pediatric care factors associated with the completion of hepatitis C virus (HCV) screening in perinatally exposed children.
- To identify optimal timing for HCV testing policies to improve screening rates.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort study of children born to HCV-positive individuals in Philadelphia (2016-2020).
- Analysis of demographic, pediatric care, and testing policy factors using chi-squared and logistic regression.
- Evaluation of HCV testing completion and adequacy based on pediatrician policies.
Main Results:
- Of 457 children, 67.2% completed HCV testing, and 17.2% were inadequately tested.
- Testing completion was higher for children with maternal HIV coinfection, those on schedule for vaccinations, and those attending the 18-month well visit.
- Pediatrician testing policies significantly impacted completion: 90.9% at 2 months vs. 58.5% at 18 months.
Conclusions:
- The timing of pediatric hepatitis C virus (HCV) testing policies is a critical factor in completion rates.
- Testing at 2 months demonstrated superior completion compared to later testing strategies.
- Routine HCV testing for perinatally exposed children should be prioritized within the first year of life.
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