Prevalence of HIV, HBV, and HCV and Related Risk Factors amongst Male Homeless People in Lorestan Province, the West of Iran.

BACKGROUND: Homeless people are at a higher risk of blood-born infectious diseases. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of HIV, HBV, HCV and related risk factors among male homeless people.

STUDY DESIGN: A cross-sectional study.

METHODS: This study was conducted in Khorramabad City, western Iran from January to June 2015. A pre-designed validated questionnaire was used to collect the data on behavioral and other potential risk factors. Blood samples were taken in order to diagnose HIV, hepatitis B and C infections. The prevalence of HIV, hepatitis B, C and related risk factors was reported with a 95% confidence interval (CI).

RESULTS: The participants were 307 male homeless people with a mean (±SD) age of 35.86 (±9.62) yr. The prevalence of HIV, HBs Ag, and HCV Ab positive cases was 6.51% (95% CI: 4.23, 9.90), 0.98% (95% CI: 0.31, 3.00), and 31.27% (26.31, 36.71), respectively. The prevalence of co-infections of HIV and HCV Ab+ was 5.76% (95% CI: 1.34, 8.51). The most common recently used drugs were heroin, methamphetamine, and opium with a prevalence of 44.30%, 41.04%, and 24.76%, correspondingly.

CONCLUSIONS: According to this study, prevalence of HIV and hepatitis C among homeless people was considerable. Abusing heroin, methamphetamine, and industrial drugs was also significant. Considering the association between drug abuse, HIV, and hepatitis C infections, planning for effective control and preventive interventions is important in homeless people.