Abstract: SA-PO1115
Beyond Elimination: Effect of Egypt's National Hepatitis C Virus Eradication Strategy on HCV Burden Among Patients on Hemodialysis
Session Information
- Kidney Replacement Therapy and Care Delivery Innovations
October 24, 2026 | Location: Exhibit Hall A, Convention Center
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: Dialysis
- 801 Dialysis: Hemodialysis and Frequent Dialysis
Authors
- Sarhaan, Eman, Ain Shams University Faculty of Medicine, Cairo, Cairo Governorate, Egypt
- Elgaafary, Maha Mohamed, Ain Shams University Faculty of Medicine, Cairo, Cairo Governorate, Egypt
- Abuzied, Mohamed Ali Ezzat, Ain Shams University Faculty of Medicine, Cairo, Cairo Governorate, Egypt
Background
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection remains a major concern among hemodialysis patients because of ongoing healthcare-associated exposure. Despite the substantial decline in HCV burden in Egypt following the national eradication program incorporating mass screening, infection control measures, and direct-acting antivirals, continued surveillance in dialysis units is essential.
This study evaluated HCV prevalence and seroconversion among hemodialysis patients in Kafr El-Sheikh which represents an appropriate model for assessment of HCV burden in Egypt after implementation of the national eradication program and investigated demographic predictors of antiviral treatment non-compliance and loss to follow-up.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted between August and December 2024 including 1,162 prevalent hemodialysis patients in Kafr El-Sheikh Governorate, Egypt, following ethical approval and informed consent. Participants underwent detailed history taking, clinical evaluation, and relevant investigations. The study assessed HCV infection history, treatment compliance, concurrent HBV infection, HCV seroconversion, treatment failure, and sociodemographic predictors of treatment compliance.
Results
Among the studied patients, 403 (34.68%) had a history of HCV PCR positivity before or during the national eradication campaign. Of these, 212 patients (52.61%) received antiviral therapy, whereas 191 (47.39%) did not, mainly due to concerns regarding drug-related complications (56%), inadequate counseling (11.5%), and advanced comorbid conditions (10.47%). Among treated patients, 81.13% completed the recommended 3-month treatment course, while 12.79% developed seroconversion, likely due to relapse or reinfection. The overall HCV prevalence among hemodialysis patients in Kafr El-Sheikh following the national eradication program was 19.4%, with concurrent HBV infection detected in 1.46% of patients.
Conclusion
HCV prevalence among hemodialysis patients in Kafr El-Sheikh has markedly declined from 34.68% to 19.4% following the Egyptian national eradication program. However, this rate still persists above current national estimates. Antiviral non-adherence is mainly related to fear of adverse effects and insufficient counseling. Seroconversion persists, likely due to relapse or reinfection. Sociodemographic determinants are essential for guiding treatment and control strategies