Role of Community Associations in HIV, HBV and HCV Screening and Support for Migrant Populations in France: Results of the DéPAC Study

Abstract Introduction The majority of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection diagnoses in France involve migrant populations, who face challenges in navigating healthcare systems. Community associations that liaise with migrant populations are well placed to screen for these viruses and provide post-screening support. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of community association-based HIV, HBV and HCV screening campaigns and support in migrant populations in France. Methods The retrospective, observational DéPAC (DÉpistage Par des Associations Communautaires [Screening by Community Associations]) study evaluated data from 10 community associations primarily supporting Afro-Caribbean migrants based in Paris, Lyon and Marseille. The associations provided data from January to December 2023 on the number of point-of-care (POC) HIV, HBV and HCV tests performed, positivity rates, and follow-up support. Results The community associations performed 29,422 POC tests (HIV 10,293; HBV 9925; HCV 9204), of which 502 returned a positive result. Positivity rates were 1.3% for HIV, 2.8% for HBV and 1.0% for HCV; 78.3% of positive tests were from individuals with unknown viral status prior to the tests. Following a positive test result, referral for medical support was almost always offered and social support was frequently offered. Medical and social support were also offered following negative tests, but follow-up data were missing for many of the tests. Conclusion High positivity rates for HIV, HBV and HCV were observed among migrants in France who underwent community-based testing. This suggests that such screening can effectively target this population and provide an opportunity to access appropriate support. Graphical abstract available for this article.