HCV communication within ego-centric networks of men and women who inject drugs. (1st December 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Felsher, Marisa; Tobin, Karin E.; Sulkowski, Mark; Latkin, Carl; Falade-Nwulia, Oluwaseun
• Is Part Of: Drug and alcohol dependence. Volume 229:Part B(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-12-01
• Subjects: Social networks -- Hepatitis C -- People who inject drugs -- Gender -- Interpersonal communication; Drug abuse -- Periodicals; Alcoholism -- Periodicals; 616.86
• DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.109157
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0376-8716

Abstract

Abstract: Introduction: Leveraging interpersonal communication among social networks of people who inject drugs (PWID) may be an innovative strategy to increase awareness and access to hepatitis C (HCV) care. However, little is known about HCV communication patterns among PWID and if these patterns vary by gender. Methods: Egocentric network data collected at baseline from HCV-infected PWID enrolled in a randomized HCV treatment intervention trial in Baltimore, Maryland were analyzed. Logistic generalized estimating models were conducted to identify predictors of HCV communication. Results: Among 227 PWID, the mean age was 43.8 (SD=10.3), 28.2% (n = 64) were women and 71.8% (n = 163) were men. Female participants reported 516 dyadic relationships and male participants 1139 dyadic relationships. While there were significant gender differences based on socio-demographics, risk behavior and network composition, there were few differences in HCV communication patterns. Both men and women had increased odds of HCV communication with alters who are currently enrolled in drug treatment (AOR 1.7, 95% CI: 1.3–2.4), alters with whom participants share drug preparation equipment (AOR 3.0, 95% CI: 1.9–4.6), alters who are sex partners compared to kin (AOR 3.0; 95% CI: 1.9–4.9) and alters with whom respondents have increased trust (AOR 1.1; 95% CI: 1.11.2) and daily/weekly interactions (AOR 1.7; 95% CI 1.3–2.1). Conclusion: PWID engaged with trusted alters about HCV disclosure and information, highlighting the important role network interventions could play in this vulnerable population. Highlights: Communication about HCV within social networks was similar for men and women. PWID had higher odds of HCV communication with alters enrolled in drug treatment. PWID had higher odds of HCV communication with sex partners. PWID had higher odds of HCV communication with alters they trust. PWID had higher odds of HCV communication with alters they interact with frequently.