Identifying barriers to hepatitis B and delta screening, prevention, and linkage to care among people who use drugs in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.

ABSTRACT:

Background

People who use drugs (PWUD) are at increased risk for blood-borne viruses, including hepatitis B (HBV) and delta (HDV). Despite the public health threats both viruses present, awareness remains low among at-risk communities and providers who serve them. This study assessed barriers to HBV and HDV prevention, diagnosis, and linkage to care, evaluated existing levels of knowledge, and identified educational needs and preferences among both PWUD and service providers.

Methods

For this mixed-methods study, data were collected through an anonymous online provider-focused survey, and interviews with PWUD, non-medical staff, and healthcare providers at a harm reduction organization in Philadelphia, PA, USA. Convenience sampling was used for recruitment of both key inform

SUBMITTER: Zovich B 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11566396 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature