Seasonality of Tuberculosis in Migrant Workers in Kuwait
Author Information
Author(s): Akhtar Saeed, Mohammad Hameed GHH
Primary Institution: Kuwait University
Hypothesis
Is there a seasonal pattern in the diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis among migrant workers entering Kuwait?
Conclusion
There is a significant peak in tuberculosis cases among migrants entering Kuwait during late April.
Supporting Evidence
- The maximum number of TB cases was expected during the last week of April.
- The amplitude of seasonal variation was 20.4% from the annual mean.
- Seasonal component explained 55% of the total variation in TB cases among migrants.
Takeaway
The study found that more people get tuberculosis in late April among migrants coming to Kuwait, so health officials can prepare better during that time.
Methodology
Monthly aggregates of TB diagnosis results for consecutive migrants tested between January 1, 1997 and December 31, 2006 were analyzed.
Potential Biases
Some level of misclassification of TB cases or non-TB migrants might have occurred.
Limitations
Lack of detailed demographic data on migrants and potential misclassification of TB cases.
Participant Demographics
Migrants predominantly from India, Bangladesh, Sri-Lanka, Egypt, Indonesia, Philippines, and Pakistan.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 192 – 204
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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