Background It is estimated there are 71 million HCV carriers worldwide, and about 1,032,000 live in Brazil. This infection causes acute and chronic hepatitis and is the top cause of liver cancer. The principal mode of HCV dissemination is parenteral via, though some sexual behaviors may facilitate viral transmission such as anal intercourse and unsafe sex. Many transgender women practice behaviors that may put them at risk for HCV infection. The aim of this study is to evaluate the prevalence of HCV infection among transgender women in Goiania, Central Brazil.

Methods From May to December 2018, a total of 180 transgender women were interviewed and tested for anti-HCV using a rapid test (ALERE HCV, Standard Diagnostics, Republic of Korea).

Results None were anti-HCV positive. Of the total, 34.3% reported no or irregular condom use during anal sex with a steady partner, and 34.3% continue this behavior with occasional sexual partners. Other factors: 82.6% had tattoos or piercings; 67.8% used non-injection illicit drugs; 47.8% put industrial silicone into their body; 48.9% reported previous STI, and 48.3% reported bleeding during sexual intercourse. Whereas only 6.7% reported blood transfusion, and 4.2% had a history of illicit injection drug use.

Conclusion These findings suggest hepatitis C is not a problem for transgender women in Goiânia. The low frequency of blood transfusion and illicit injection drug use play a role in HCV prevalence despite of several opportunities for viral transmission.

Disclosure No significant relationships.