Hepatitis C co-infection characteristics and correlates in newly reported HIV/AIDS patients in Southwest China, 2018–2022

Aims The aims of the project were: (1) to map the current HIV–HCV co-infection in Liangshan Prefecture, Sichuan Province, China, (2) to explore the risk factors of HIV–HCV co-infection in Liangshan Prefecture, and (3) to propose strategies for prevention and control of HIV–HCV co-infection in Liangshan Prefecture. Subject and methods This study assessed the HIV–HCV co-infection rate, characteristics, and correlative factors of HIV–HCV co-infection individuals reported between 2018 and 2022 in Liangshan. This made use of path analysis, multiple logistic regression analysis, and chi-square tests. Results The findings revealed a 6.75% HIV–HCV co-infection rate, and the incidence was stable from 2018 to 2022. The outcomes of multiple logistic regression showed the correlative factors, including male (OR = 2.640, 95% CI: 2.300–3.031), 25–44 years (OR = 4.184, 95% CI: 2.135–8.196), 45–64 years (OR = 3.411, 95% CI: 1.733–0.937), Anning River Valley (OR = 2.583, 95% CI: 1.833–3.639) and east of it (OR = 2.543, 95% CI: 1.749–3.699), and injecting drug use (OR = 2.116, 95% CI: 1.879–2.383). The pathway analysis revealed that co-infection was directly influenced by gender (−0.112), ethnicity (−0.079), marital status (0.077), and route of infection (−0.095). Conclusion Concentrate on the high-risk group based on the co-infection associated factors found in the study's findings. Take the necessary steps to enhance patient quality of life and survival, as well as the efficacy of preventive treatment and therapy.