Poor validity of self-reported hepatitis B virus infection and vaccination status among young drug users

Clin Infect Dis. 2004 Feb 15;38(4):587-90. doi: 10.1086/381440. Epub 2004 Jan 29.

Abstract

Self-reported hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection status and immunization status were compared with HBV serological markers among 324 young injection drug users (IDUs) and noninjection drug users (NIDUs). The overall validity of self-reported status was poor; 52% claiming to be vaccinated were actually susceptible to HBV. There was no difference in validity of self-reported HBV status between IDUs and NIDUs. Clinicians should adopt a "Don't Ask, Vaccinate" vaccination policy for young drug users.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Validation Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Biomarkers / analysis*
  • Female
  • Hepatitis B / complications
  • Hepatitis B / epidemiology
  • Hepatitis B / immunology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Seroepidemiologic Studies
  • Serologic Tests
  • Substance Abuse, Intravenous / complications
  • Substance Abuse, Intravenous / immunology*
  • Vaccination*

Substances

  • Biomarkers