HCV Screening in Special Populations

In 2015, the CDC estimates about 34,000 new HCV infections occurred-nearly triple the incidence in 2011.¹ The increase is attributed to rising rates of injection drug use, especially among those aged < 30 years.

Data show that from 2011-2014, rates of HCV detection among women of childbearing age rose 22%, and the proportion of infants born to HCV-infected mothers increased 68%. The risk of mother-to-child transmission of HCV is thought to be low (3% to 5%).²

Although the risk is very low, keep in mind that HCV can be contracted through sexual activity. According to the CDC, 15% to 20% of patients with acute HCV infection (estimated duration of infection, < 6 months) contracted it through sexual exposure. Having multiple sexual partners is a risk factor for acute HCV infection, and the risk is higher in men who have sex with men.^3,4

The CDC has mandated HCV testing of high-risk populations such as injection drug users and all “baby boomers” (adults born between 1945 and 1965). HCV testing also is recommended for persons with HIV infection and those who received clotting factor concentrates produced before 1987, were ever on long-term hemodialysis, or have persistently abnormal alanine aminotransferase levels. Other persons who should be screened are those who received transfusions or organ transplants before July 1992 or from an HCV-positive donor.⁵ Infants of mothers with HCV infection should also be tested for HCV.²

According to the CDC, the need for routine HCV testing is uncertain in these populations.⁵