A population-based screening for hepatitis C antibodies and active infection using a point-of-care test in a low prevalence area.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Data on the true prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in the general population is essential. We evaluated a program implementing free universal HCV screening using a non-invasive point-of-care test (POCT) (OraQuick-HCV rapid test) in oral fluid in an urban area in Valencia, South-Eastern Spain.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was performed during 2015-2017. Free HCV screening was offered by regular mail to 11,500 individuals aged 18 and over, randomly selected from all census residents in the Health Department. All responding participants filled in a questionnaire about HCV infection risk factors and were tested in their tertiary Hospital. In those with a positive POCT, results were confirmed by enzyme-immunoassay and HCV-RNA.

Results

1,206 pers

SUBMITTER: Carvalho-Gomes A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7012430 | biostudies-literature | 2020

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature