The association between knowledge of hepatitis C virus status and risk behaviors in injection drug users.

摘要: Aims  The three primary objectives of this study were (1) to document the prevalence hepatitis C virus (HCV) and awareness one's status in a sample street-recruited injection drug users (IDUs); (2) compare use HCV risk behaviors IDUs who reported that they infected with those unaware their subsequently tested positive for antibodies; (3) assess associations between factors by comparing negative. Design  responded structured interview questions assessing offered free test. Setting  Subjects recruited through street outreach Denver, CO, USA. Participants  Participants current, out-of-treatment IDUs. Measurements  A modified version Risk Behavior Assessment (RBA) test results used. Findings  Of 197 participants, 20% had been diagnosed previously HCV. did not know status, 61% antibodies. Those knew injecting longer but engaged fewer than status. Compared negative, more likely be male, non-white older. They also longer, heroin and/or crack cocaine consumed alcohol. Conclusions  In study, very large proportion it, engaging aware associated identified so are most at-risk might targeted testing subsequent prevention or care.