Hepatitis C virus (HCV) diagnoses among reproductive-aged women are rising, particularly in the context of the ongoing opioid and drug overdose epidemic. Despite studies revealing racial and ethnic disparities in HCV testing and treatment in predominantly male populations, no national studies have analyzed these outcomes specifically for reproductive-aged women with opioid use disorder (OUD). This study analyzed data from women aged 15 to 44 with diagnosed OUD using the TriNetX Research Network, examining differences in HCV care stages (antibody testing, infection, linkage to care, and treatment) by race and ethnicity.

From 2014 to 2022, only 44.6% of the cohort were tested for HCV antibodies, with Asian and Black/African American individuals showing a lower probability of testing compared to white individuals. Among those diagnosed with HCV, only 9.1% received direct-acting antiviral treatment. However, Hispanic/Latinx individuals were more likely to receive treatment compared to non-Hispanic/Latinx individuals. The findings highlight significant racial and ethnic disparities in HCV testing and treatment, which worsen the risks of perinatal transmission and disease progression in marginalized communities. There is a pressing need for targeted interventions to improve both overall rates and equity in HCV screening and treatment for reproductive-aged women.

Reference: Biondi BE, Munroe S, Lavarin C, et al. Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Hepatitis C Care in Reproductive-Aged Women With Opioid Use Disorder. Clin Infect Dis. 2024;79(6):1428-1436. doi: 10.1093/cid/ciae426.