Hepatitis C survey among the prison community in the Triângulo Mineiro region, Minas Gerais, Brazil: revealing an invisible population.

Abstract

Abstract Background Hepatitis C is a health problem in penitentiaries and its elimination must be strengthened. The study describes socio-epidemiological aspects of a hepatitis C investigation in a penitentiary in the region of Triângulo Mineiro in Minas Gerais, Brazil. Methods It is a cross-sectional and epidemiological survey, with an exploratory, observational, quantitative element. It was carried out in a state penitentiary with 1564 inmates. A semi-structured individual interview and anti-HCV testing were carried out between December 2019 and March 2020, in a simple random sample of 240 prisoners. Results The prevalence for HCV was 2.1% (anti-HCV test). Most participants were men (76.6%), with a mean age of 33.8 years, with incomplete high school educational level (80.5%). 93.8% self-reported heterosexuality, multiple sexual partners (mean of 6.5 partners/year) and inconsistent condom use. 54.2% had undergone a previous surgical procedure. Regarding alcohol use, 72.9% reported some consumption, at an average amount of 188.5 grams/day. Non-injecting drug use was reported by 70% of participants and cigarette by 56.3%. Other aspects were the recurrence of imprisonment (70.4%) and having the tattoos (75.8%). Conclusion The study supports the organization of epidemiological survey protocols, the construction of intersectoral health projects and the description of the prison population's vulnerabilities.