Hepatitis C Virus and Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 Co-Infection in Former Heroin Addicts in Methadone Maintenance Treatment.

Objectives: To investigate hepatitis C (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) prevalence in former opiate or heroin addicts currently in methadone maintenance treatment (MMT).Methods: Retrospective chart review for patients (n = 342) currently attending two MMT clinics affiliated with New York Presbyterian Hospital (Adolescent Development Program, ADP: n = 106, median age 30 years; Adult Clinic, AC: n = 236, median age 45 years), as of May 2000. Results: Overall seroprevalence of those tested was 67% for HCV (ADP, 44%; AC, 80%), and 29% for HIV-1 (ADP, 13%, AC, 39%). Co-infection was present in 26% of patients (ADP, 13%; AC, 35%). Prevalence of HCV reached 92% in the 45-49 year old group (n = 53). The greatest HIV-1 prevalence (45%) was in the 35-39 year old group (n = 33). There was a linear relationship between infection seroprevalence and age at admission into MMT. Conclusions: The high prevalence of HCV and HIV-1 infections in MMT patients varies both by current age and by age at admission to MMT. This population needs risk reduction education and treatment for HCV and HIV-1. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]