Effect of an Active Reach-Out Program on Hepatitis C Screening Test for Drug-Addicted Inmates in Southern Taiwan

Abstract

Chronic hepatitis C is an important threat to the world’s public health. In Taiwan, 2~4% of the population is infected with hepatitis C, and 10~15% of those cases will lead to liver cirrhosis. This study examined the effect of a comprehensive screening test project conducted by the Addiction Treatment Center in southern Taiwan. In collaboration with the Drug Addiction Treatment Center, 154 screening tests were completed. It is demonstrated that through active reach-out screening service with innovative process design, the vulnerable groups of people with a potentially high prevalence of HCV could be targeted and cured. Nevertheless, close surveillance and follow-up would be necessary to prevent the reoccurrence.

Keywords

• hepatitis C treatment
• drug treatment center
• drug-addicted inmate