Seronegative hepatitis C virus infection in Polish blood donors-Virological characteristics of index donations and follow-up observations.

Nucleic acid testing (NAT) was implemented in Poland in 1999 for screening of plasma for fractionation and for all blood donors in 2002. To analyze seronegative NAT-positive samples representing hepatitis C virus (HCV) window-period (WP) in the years 2000 to 2016 and to determine infection outcome. We analyzed results of 17 502 739 donations screened in minipools (6-48) or individually.

Factors associated with hepatitis C prevalence differ by the stage of liver fibrosis: A cross-sectional study in the general population in Poland, 2012-2016.

Background & Aims: There is a considerable burden of hepatitis C in Europe related to the lack of prompt diagnosis. We aimed to estimate the prevalence and related risk factors of HCV infections by the stages of liver fibrosis, using non-invasive methods, to understand testing needs in Poland.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2012-2016 adopting a stratified random sampling of primary health care units followed by systematic sampling of patients within each unit.

What affects response rates in primary healthcare-based programmes? An analysis of individual and unit-related factors associated with increased odds of non-response based on HCV screening in the general population in Poland.

Objectives: Response rate in public health programmes may be a limiting factor. It is important to first consider their delivery and acceptability for the target. This study aimed at determining individual and unit-related factors associated with increased odds of non-response based on hepatitis C virus screening in primary healthcare.

Hepatitis C virus epidemiology and prevention in Polish and Swiss population - similar and contrasting experiences.

Objective: The aim of the study was to review available data on HCV in Poland and Switzerland, in order to compare the two European countries with respect to epidemiological situation and efficiency of the response systems.

Materials And Method: A search of registries, published and grey literature was performed to assemble data on prevalence, rate of detection of new cases, identified risk factors for transmission, mortality due to HCV, prevalence of HCC and the consequent liver transplantations, as well as data on treatment in Poland and Switzerland.

Results: Overall, the prevalence of anti-HCV antibodies was similar, not exceeding 1%.