Modeling Vulnerability of Opioid-Associated Hepatitis B and C Infections: A Spatial Epidemiological Approach

Abstract

The opioid epidemic in the United States has been associated with an increase in rates of hepatitis B and C infection across the country. This is due to an increase in the use of intravenous drug injection which allows the hepatitis virus to be spread easily from one person to another. Studies have found an increase in hepatitis rates amongst individuals aged 40 and below in both males and females. Women of childbearing age are a cohort of particular interest due to the risk of vertical infection from mother to child. The analysis done in this thesis used a spatial epidemiological approach to model vulnerability of perinatal opioid-associated hepatitis B and C infection in the Appalachian region which has recently seen high rates of opioid overdose as well as viral hepatitis rates. Using publicly available data as model variables, exploratory regression was conducted to develop models that indicate areas of high vulnerability. This geospatial analysis found 3 models which highlight counties in the Appalachian region which may be vulnerable to seeing higher rates of perinatal opioid-associated hepatitis B and C infections. Geospatial modeling can be used to identify areas of high risk and can help public health departments ensure resources are being sent to the areas most in need.