Hepatitis C, Hepatitis B, and Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infections among Non-Intravenous Drug-Using Patients Attending Clinics for Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Authors:
  • RCRobert O. Cannon
    Robert O. Cannon
  • CSCraig N. Shapiro
    Craig N. Shapiro
  • EHEdward W. Hook
    Edward W. Hook
  • MAMiriam J. Alter
    Miriam J. Alter
  • TQThomas C. Quinn
    Thomas C. Quinn
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Abstract
The seroprevalences of and risk factors for hepatitis C virus (HCV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and syphilis were determined among 1257 consecutive non-intravenous drug-using patients attending Baltimore sexually transmitted diseases clinics: 122 (9.7%) had antibodies to HeV (anti-HCV), 192 (15.3%) had antibodies to HBV (anti-HBc), 44 (3.5%) had antibodies to HIV (anti-HIV), and 60 (4.8%) were seropositive for syphilis. For males, independent predictors of anti-HCV were age >29 years and lack of condom use in the month before their visit. Males with anyone serologic marker (anti-HCV, anti-HBc, anti-HIV, or syphilis) were more likely to have each of the other markers. For females, anti-HCV was independently associated with age >29 years and >1 male sex partner in the prior month. Females with anti-HIV or anti-HBc were more likely to have anti-HCV. These observations among non-intravenous drug-using patients suggest that sexual transmission of HCV may occur.