Minerva medica
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General population data on hepatitis C virus (HCV) prevalence in Italy come mostly from studies conducted in small towns. The highest rates have consistently been found in southern regions, especially in Calabria. Herein, we aimed to determine HCV prevalence, awareness, and risk factors in the general population of Catanzaro, the capital city of Calabria, Italy. ⋯ We detected a much lower anti-HCV prevalence than those previously found in Calabria, along with a substantial change in HCV transmission modes. Infected people were almost only elderly and mostly unaware of their infection. Improving diagnosis and linkage to care for these infected persons would be needed.