Prevalence of circulating hepatitis C virus genotypes and drug-resistant variants in former Soviet Union countries: A scoping review with genotype meta-analysis.
Int J Infect DisJun 10, 2026 (epub)
Omega Mathew Immanuel, Olaoluwa Tolulope Fabiyi, Zhanar Issabekova et al.
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In 30 seconds
This meta-analysis and scoping review examined the prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotypes and drug-resistant variants in the Former Soviet Union (FSU) using data from 24 studies. The analysis revealed that the pooled prevalence of major HCV genotypes was 98.02%, with genotype 1 (G1) being the most prevalent at 59%. Limited data on resistance-associated substitutions (RAS) were noted.
Key findings
- The pooled prevalence of major HCV genotypes was 98.02% (95% CI: 96.71-98.94%).
- Genotype 1 (G1) had the highest prevalence at 59%, followed by G3 at 27%.
- G1 prevalence varied by region, with 73.5% in the Mixed Region and 30.6% in the South Caucasus.
- Only four small studies reported clinically significant RAS, involving 329 participants.
Why it matters
Understanding the distribution of HCV genotypes and the presence of drug-resistant variants is crucial for effective treatment strategies and public health interventions aimed at HCV elimination in the FSU region.