Seroprevalence of hepatitis C virus among refugees, asylum seekers, and internally displaced populations within Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Year: 2026
Type: review
Study designs: Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis
Abstract: Hepatitis C virus (HCV), an often overlooked public health concern, is highly prevalent among marginalized groups. Refugees, asylum seekers, and internally displaced people (RASIDP) constitute an underserved population in healthcare. Given that displacement rates are increasing and that HCV is endemic to many African countries, we aimed to determine the prevalence of HCV among RASIDP communities in Africa. Studies investigating HCV prevalence within RASIDP communities across Africa were identified via the following database searches: Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, APA PsycINFO, and the WHO Africa Index Medicus. Seroprevalence estimates were meta-analysed using a random-effects model, with data stratified by participant region, age, and gender. Across 9 studies, we estimated a pooled HCV seroprevalence of 3.63% (95% CI: 0.54, 9.16) among RASIDP in Africa. Seroprevalence varied by region of origin and age, with those from Northern Africa and those aged > 40 years having the highest seroprevalence, at 10.03% (95% CI:9.03, 11.13) and 5.70% (95% CI: 0.81, 14.21), respectively. RASIDP communities represent a marginalised and vulnerable population that often faces significant barriers to accessing healthcare. Our findings show that HCV seroprevalence within these communities varies by region and age, thus suggesting a need for targeted screening approaches.
Source: Global Public Health
Institutions: University of Bristol, University of Gondar
Language: English
Topic: Hepatitis C virus research
Subfield: Hepatology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,650
OpenAlex ID: W7153621074