Burden of blood transmitted infections in substance users admitted for inpatient treatment in Singapore and the associated factors

INTRODUCTION There is a paucity of local data on the prevalence of blood transmitted infections (BTIs), such ashepatitis B, hepatitis C and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections, among illicit drug users. This study aimedto examine the prevalence of BTIs among substance‑dependent inpatients and identify the factors associated with BTIs.METHODS We conducted a retrospective case note analysis of 170 inpatients who had a history of substance dependenceand were seen at the National Addictions Management Service, Singapore, between 1 June 2009 and 31 May 2010.RESULTS The majority of the 170 inpatients were male (88.2%) and Chinese (58.2%). The mean age of the patients was43.1 years, and the main drug of abuse was opioids (86.5%). BTIs were found in 70 (41.2%) inpatients; the prevalence ofhepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV infections was 3.7%, 39.6% and 0%, respectively. Lifetime intravenous drug use, but notneedle-sharing, was more common among inpatients who were positive for BTIs (p < 0.01). Logistic regression analysisshowed that lifetime intravenous drug use (OR 4.3, 95% CI 1.7–10.8, p < 0.01) was the only significant predictor of BTI.CONCLUSION 41.2% of the substance users seeking help were positive for at least one BTI. Lifetime intravenous drugusers were found to be more than four times more likely to have a BTI. Early detection and prevention is essential toimprove prognosis.