Introduction and objective: Two-thirds of patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection
are unaware of their infection in the European Union. The WHO aims to reduce the number
of new cases of chronic hepatitis by 90% by 2030. The proportion of people infected
with HCV in prisons can be up to ten times higher compared to the general population.
This article is a summary of the results of the HCV screening carried out in the Hungarian
prisons between 2007 and 2017. Method: Screening of anti-HCV antibodies has been performed
on a voluntary basis followed by HCV PCR and genotyping in positive cases. After obtaining
written informed consent from the patients, treatment was started. Treatments were
performed under the guidance of hepatologists in collaboration with prison medical
staff. Results: HCV screening programs and treatments are in place in 84% of Hungarian
prisons. A total of 25 384 patients underwent anti-HCV screening. Anti-HCV positive
result was detected in 6.6% and HCV PCR positivity was confirmed in 3.8% of the screened
inmates. 55.2% patients from the HCV PCR positive population were put on treatment.
Only 143 patients received full treatment, while 162 (42.6%) treatments were terminated
prematurely, and the duration of treatment was unknown in 75 patients. Based on the
results available on the 24th week after the end of treatment, sustained virologic
response rate was 88%. Discussion: Education of patients and collaboration between
hepatologists and prison medical staff play an important role in the successful result
of treatment. Conclusion: Our experience demonstrates that the "test and treat" principle
is feasible and effective at microeliminating HCV in prisons.
