Epidemiology and Risk Factors for HCV Infection Among MSM With or at Risk of HIV in Madrid (2022-2024).

ABSTRACT:

Background

Ongoing high-risk behaviors continue to fuel HCV transmission among men who have sex with men (MSM), challenging elimination efforts. We studied HCV epidemiology in MSM with HIV (MSM-WH) and without HIV in the region of Madrid.

Methods

This prospective study (2022-2024) enrolled MSM-WH from 10 centers and MSM on PrEP from an STI clinic. Visits were scheduled at baseline, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months (PrEP group), or baseline, 6, and 12 months (HIV group). Assessments included liver enzymes, HCV serology, HCV-RNA, and STI screening (syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea by PCR).

Results

A total of 1372 MSM (733 with HIV; 639 on PrEP) were enrolled. Baseline HCV prevalence was 1.68%, significantly higher in those with prior HCV exposure (5.60% vs 0.72%; prevalence rat

SUBMITTER: Ryan P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12651544 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature