Evaluation of Risk Factors for Hepatitis C Virus Infection among Philadelphia's Shelter-Bound, Homeless Population: Data from a Student-Run Hepatitis C Virus Screening Initiative

Abstract

The objective was to assess risk factors for HCV specific to the shelter-bound homeless population of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This is a retrospective analysis of data obtained from 306 patients who received HCV antibody testing at 4 homeless shelters in Philadelphia between March 2017 and June 2019. Risk factors for HCV infection specific to this population were analyzed using Fischer exact tests. Fourteen (4.6%) of 306 patients screened positive for HCV infection. Risk factors for HCV infection among this shelter-bound homeless population included injection drug use, inhalation drug use, and tattoos obtained while incarcerated. Although an estimated 2.8% of the population of Philadelphia is infected with HCV, 4.6% of those screened in this program tested positive, highlighting the increased prevalence of HCV among the shelter-bound homeless population and the importance of assessing risks for HCV infection inherent to this specific population.