The prevalence of hepatitis B, hepatitis C and associated risk factors in intravenous drug addicts (IVDA) with HIV in Isfahan

Abstract

Background: Viral co-infection is a major cause of human mortality and morbidity and diagnosis of infected patients can lead to prevalence reduction. Methods: In a cross-sectional study, 106 HIV positive patients with a history of IVDA, addmitted among 2000-2007 to Navab-Safavi curing center in Isfahan, were studied. HBs Ag and HCV-Ab were carried on by ELISA method and check-list of related risk factors was completed for each patient. The prevalence of hepatitis B and C and related risk factors were analyzed using Odds Ratio (95% CIs) and logistic Regression tests. Findings: Our result showed that 2 patients (1.8%) had hepatitis B, 80 patients (75.5%) had hepatitis C and 10 patients (9.4%) had both of them. History of imprisonment and unemployment were independent risk factors for IVDA [OR (95% CIs): 18.27 (5.9-56.5) and 8 (2.4-26.1) respectively] but marital status, education and age have not any correlation with neither IVDA nor hepatitis. Conclusion: Our results indicated high prevalence of hepatitis B and C in HIV positive patients with IVDA history. Unemployment and low hygiene in prisons must be mentioned to reduce IVDA in our society. Key words: HIV, HBV, HCV, Risk factors, IVDA.