General population knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors (KAB) on hepatitis c screening, Latium, Italy

Abstract

Abstract Background In 2022, a free-of-charge screening to eliminate the HCV virus circulation was offered countrywide to the citizens born from 1969 to 1989. Recent studies reported low adherence rates to HCV screening campaigns, highlighting the need for policy makers to know the determinants of adherence, aimed to set up more effective communication campaigns. Methods A target population random sample answered by phone a questionnaire based on the Health Belief Model (HBF), containing 4 sections on perceived HCV susceptibility and severity, screening benefits and barriers. Each interviewed was finally invited to adhere to the screening. Prevalence was estimated using a 95% C.I., and association between sociodemographic characteristics, HBF attitudes, and screening adherence following the interview were assessed. Results Survey involved 641 participants. HCV susceptibility was perceived by 4.8% (C.I.95% 3,23-6,57) and HCV severity by 69,4% (I.C.95% 65,83-72,97), 95% (C.I.95% 93,3-96,6) acknowledged screening benefits and 88% (85,4-90,5) perceived no obstacles. It was found that 49.0% (C.I.95% 45,1-52,8) received no information. Perception of screening barriers was associated with low education level (OR 1.83, P = 0.02). In the 2 months following the interview, 17.6% (C.I.95% 14,6-20,5) carried out the HCV screening. Severity (OR 1.74, P = 0.03) and no barriers perception (OR 2.63, P = 0.01) were associated factors to post phone call adherence to UCV screening. Conclusions Insufficient communication campaign toward target population results in poor knowledge of HCV susceptibility and gravity and low adherence to HCV screening. Target population needs to acquire better awareness about HCV and HCV screening, through targeted and effective messages especially focusing on the susceptibility and gravity of HCV infection. Key messages • Target population does not feel susceptible to hepatitis c and has poor perception of severity. • It is necessary to improve communication through effective messages.