Trends and associated factors of HIV, HCV and syphilis infection among different drug users in the China–Vietnam border area: An 11-year cross-sectional study (2010–2020)

Abstract

Abstract Background Data on recent human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis C virus (HCV) and syphilis prevalence among drug users in the Southwest China are sparse despite the high burden of drug use. This study aims at assessing the prevalence trends and related factors of HIV, HCV and syphilis infection among different drug users in the China–Vietnam border area. Methods A consecutive cross-sectional survey was conducted among drug users from 2010 to 2020 in the China–Vietnam border area. Results A total of 24,543 (84.77%) heroin-only users, 2062 (7.12%) synthetic drug-only (SD-only) users and 2346 (8.10%) poly-drug users participated in this study. From 2010 to 2020, the proportion of heroin-only users decreased from 87.79–75.46%, whereas SD-only users and poly-drug users increased from 5.16–16.03%, and from 7.05–8.52%, respectively. The prevalence of HIV, HCV, and syphilis during the study period declined from 12.76%, 60.37% and 5.72–4.35%, 53.29% and 4.53%, respectively, among heroin-only users and declined from 18.30%, 66.67% and 15.69–6.95%, 27.81% and 5.35%, respectively, among poly-drug users; however, the prevalence of HIV and HCV among SD-only users increased from 0.89% and 8.93–2.84% and 18.75%, respectively. Having ever injected drugs and needle sharing were common risk factors for both HIV and HCV infection among poly-drug users and heroin-only users. Aged ≥ 35 years old was a risk factor for HIV, HCV and syphilis infection among the SD-only users. Female drug users were at high risk of contracting syphilis among three different drug users. Conclusions The prevalence of HIV, HCV, and syphilis among heroin-only users and poly-drug users decreased during the study period. However, the prevalence of HIV and HCV among SD-only users increased. Comprehensive intervention strategies, particularly focusing on the SD-only users are needed in order to bring down the disease burden in this population in the China–Vietnam border areas.