Biru, Amen G Evaluating the Effect of Combining Treatment for Hepatitis C Virus and Intravenous Drug Use to Reduce Hepatitis C Virus Infection Rate. 2023. Radford University, Doctoral Capstone Project. Radford University Scholars' Repository.
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Abstract
Abstract Hepatitis C is a virus on the liver that causes damage over several years due to its asymptomatic nature of the disease. HCV progresses from fibrosis to cirrhosis leading to liver damage/cancer. Although HCV affects the liver, it can also affect other organs, such as the digestive, central nervous system and endocrine and immune systems. The effect of HCV is not only limited to close by organs as it also is responsible for cognitive impairment. Intravenous drug use (IVDU) has been identified as a significant risk factor for HCV infection. Therefore, this review aims to assess whether there is an additive advantage to combining HCV and IVDU treatment rather than providing treatment separately for HCV and IVDU. Objectives: The primary purpose of this project is to examine and understand the efficacy of treating IVDU and HCV simultaneously to reduce the HCV infection rate in the U.S. Methodology This systemic literature review used databases including Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochran Reviews, Pub Med, and Education Resources Information Center (ERIC). The research questions presented in this project were answered by following the patient/population, intervention/indicator, comparison, and outcome (PICO) format. Data analysis was conducted using the synthesis matrix system. Toronto & Remington’s 2020 integrative review methodology and an appraisal tool, Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI), will be used. There was also a second reviewer to establish an agreement. Results The findings emphasize the importance of integrating HCV prevention and treatment strategies into primary care settings, expanding access to direct-acting antiviral agents, implementing harm reduction interventions, and utilizing eHealth technologies. The studies highlight the effectiveness of combining HCV treatment with harm reduction programs, such as needle syringe programs and opioid substitution therapy, to reduce HCV transmission and reinfection rates among IVDUs. The findings also underscore the need for comprehensive approaches that address social determinants and provide ongoing prevention efforts to reduce the burden of HCV infection. Conclusions Overall, findings suggest that combining harm reduction strategies, HCV treatment, and support services can improve outcomes for IVDUs and reduce HCV transmission. The literature also highlights the importance of addressing barriers to treatment, preventing reinfection, and providing patient-centered care. However, there are gaps in the research, such as the need for long-term outcome studies and research in low-income countries. Keywords: hepatitis c virus, intravenous drug use, opioid epidemic
| Item Type: | Doctoral Capstone Project |
|---|---|
| Subjects: | Q Science > Q Science (General) |
| Divisions: | Radford University > Waldron College of Health and Human Services > Health Sciences Program |
| Date Deposited: | 07 Nov 2023 13:16 |
| Last Modified: | 07 Nov 2023 13:16 |
| URI: | http://wagner.radford.edu/id/eprint/1041 |
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