Use of injected heroin and risk of hepatitis C in three cities in Colombia.

INTRODUCTION: Hepatitis C is one of the most neglected diseases by governments internationally.

OBJECTIVE: Identify the prevalence of hepatitis C and associated injection drug users in three cities of factors Colombia.

METHODS: Cross-sectional study of 668 injecting drug users recruited through respondent-driven sampling, inquired about demographic characteristics and risk behaviors. Laboratory testing was used on filter paper and cases of hepatitis C viral load tests with RNA were confirmed. Hepatitis C prevalence and associated factors was estimated with Chi-square test statistics and reasons for crude and adjusted prevalence were calculated using logistic regression.

RESULTS: The prevalence of hepatitis C was 17.5% and were found as factors that increase the prevalence of hepatitis: having HIV, injecting another person carrying the virus dose used was sharing a syringe, injected with a syringe and consume marijuana. As a factor that reduces the prevalence, purchase syringes in drug stores or other stores.

CONCLUSION: This research evidence established consumption of drugs by injection , and the presence of hepatitis C in social networks of IDUs and highlights the importance of developing interventions for harm reduction and prevention of hepatitis C in this population these three cities.