Although high prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in correctional institutions has been established, data are sparse regarding
the comorbidities of hepatitis B virus (HBV), HCV, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), all of which may complicate the
management of HCV. This study sought to estimate the prevalence and correlates associated with HCV prevalence among entrants
into the Maryland Division of Correction and the Baltimore City Detention Center. Participants included all newly incarcerated
entrants between January 28 and March 28, 2002. Excess sera with identifiers removed from samples drawn for routine syphilis
testing were assayed for antibodies to HIV and HCV and for HBV surface antigen and surface and total core antibodies. Separately,
all HIV-positive specimens were tested using the serological testing algorithm for recent HIV seroconversion. Of the 1,081
immates and 2,833 detainees, reactive syphilis serology was noted in 0.6% of the combined population; HIV seroprevalence was
6.6%; HCV prevalence was 29.7%; and 25.2% of detainees and prisoners had antigen or core or surface antibodies to HBV. A multivariate
analysis of predictors of HCV positivity indicated that detainees, women, whites, older age groups, those who were HIV seropositive,
and individuals with past or present infection with HBV were significantly more likely to be positive for HCV. These data
indicate that hepatitis C remains an important public health concern among entrants to jail and prison and is complicated
with coinfections that need to be addressed for effective treatment.
Keywords Hepatitis B virus - Hepatitis C virus - Human immunodeficiency virus - Jail - Prison - Seroprevalence - Syphilis