Epidemiology and Risk Factors for HCV Infection Among MSM With or at Risk of HIV in Madrid (2022–2024) - Summary - MDSpire

Epidemiology and Risk Factors for HCV Infection Among MSM With or at Risk of HIV in Madrid (2022–2024)

  • By

  • Pablo Ryan

  • Juan Berenguer

  • Luis Ramos-Ruperto

  • Mar Vera

  • Luz Martín-Carbonero

  • Leire Pérez-Latorre

  • Ignacio De los Santos

  • Adriana Pinto

  • María J Vivancos

  • Eva Orviz

  • Beatriz Álvarez

  • José Sanz

  • Pilar Ruiz-Seco

  • Rafael Torres

  • Beatriz Brazal

  • Marta De Miguel

  • Beatriz López-Centeno

  • Inmaculada Jarrín

  • Salvador Resino

  • José M Bellón

  • Juan González-García

  • GeSIDA 12121-CoRIS Cohort 08_2021 ATHENS study group

  • November 6, 2025

  • 0 min

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Objective:

To study HCV epidemiology among MSM with HIV and those without HIV in Madrid, identifying associated risk factors.

Key Findings:
  • Baseline HCV prevalence was 1.68%, higher in those with prior HCV exposure (5.60% vs 0.72%; prevalence ratio: 7.72, 95% CI: 3.31–18.03).
  • Overall HCV incidence was 1.45/100 person-years, with primary infection incidence at 0.79/100 person-years.
  • Reinfection incidence was 4.32/100 person-years, significantly higher in PrEP users (12.90/100 PY) compared to MSM with HIV (4.05/100 PY).
  • Risky sexual behaviors, including slamsex and condomless receptive anal intercourse with multiple partners, were associated with HCV infection and reinfection.
Interpretation:

High-risk sexual behaviors are key drivers of HCV transmission among MSM, necessitating targeted prevention strategies informed by specific behaviors to support elimination efforts.

Limitations:
  • The study's findings may not be generalizable beyond the Madrid region, limiting broader applicability.
  • Potential underreporting of high-risk behaviors due to social stigma may affect the accuracy of the data.
Conclusion:

Ongoing monitoring and targeted prevention strategies are essential to reduce HCV transmission among MSM populations, particularly those engaging in high-risk behaviors, as behaviors may evolve over time.

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