HCV RNA Positivity among Hepatitis C Patients in Chongqing, China from 2004 to 2021: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: A substantial number of Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections have been identified, yet not all diagnosed patients have received treatment, leading to uncertainties in the progression of the virus within these individuals. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of HCV RNA positivity in diagnosed cases in Chongqing, China and identify key groups. Methods: An investigation was conducted on 6333 hepatitis C cases who were diagnosed and reported in the Chinese Disease Prevention and Control Information System in 17 districts of Chongqing, China from 2004 to 2021. The process involved collecting venous blood for HCV RNA and genotype testing, as well as gathering case information through a questionnaire. The analysis focused on comparing the HCV RNA positive rates among patients with different characteristics to identify key groups. Results: The HCV RNA positive rate was 37.7% among 6,333 cases. Patients who had never received treatment (47.6%) and those treated with interferon (25.6%) showed higher positivity rates than those treated with DAAs (8.1%). HCV RNA positive were generally higher in the following groups: males, aged 40-49 years and 50-59 years, farmers or manual laborers, the unemployed or job-seeking and cases diagnosed before 2019. Individuals with higher education level and higher income exhibited lower HCV RNA positivity rates. Conclusions: A considerable portion of identified hepatitis C cases in Chongqing remain HCV RNA positive. Multiple factors contribute to HCV RNA positivity among these patients, necessitating comprehensive interventions to promote adherence to treatment.