HCV
in Corrections: Frontline or Backwater?
(continued)
Inmates at risk
The most comprehensive analysis
of HCV in the correctional system was compiled by Ted Hammet of Abt Associates
in the context of a report for the NIJ and the NCCHC's report to Congress.5
In this report, the researchers estimated that approximately 30% of the
total US population living with chronic HCV was released from prisons and
jails in the US in 1996 (1.0 to 1.25 million people). The overall prevalence
of HCV infection among inmates is estimated to be about 17% nationally,
almost 10 times higher than the estimated 1.8% prevalence in the general
US population.6 In certain sub-populations of inmates (ie those who are
HIV-positive or who have abnormal liver function tests) the HCV prevalence
can be even higher. Furthermore, the HCV/HIV co-infection rate is about
a third higher in incarcerated women than incarcerated men, which reflects
womens' participation in HCV and HIV risk behaviors.4
HEPP News recently performed
a survey to assess the current practices regarding HCV management in state
correctional facilities.7 Based on preliminary data from this study, the
prevalence of HCV in inmate populations ranges between 9% and 39% by state
(Figure 2).
CONTINUE...
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