Tuberculosis in Health-Care Workers in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Author Information
Author(s): Rajnish Joshi, Arthur L. Reingold, Dick Menzies, Madhukar Pai
Primary Institution: University of California Berkeley
Hypothesis
What is the incidence and prevalence of latent TB infection and disease among health-care workers in low- and middle-income countries?
Conclusion
The review shows that tuberculosis is a significant occupational problem among health-care workers in low- and middle-income countries.
Supporting Evidence
- The prevalence of latent TB infection among health-care workers was found to be 54%.
- The annual incidence of TB disease in health-care workers ranged from 69 to 5,780 per 100,000.
- Certain work locations and occupational categories were associated with a higher risk of TB disease.
- Most health-care facilities in low- and middle-income countries lack effective TB infection-control programs.
Takeaway
This study found that many health-care workers in poorer countries get tuberculosis because they are around sick patients, and we need to help protect them better.
Methodology
A systematic review of 51 studies on the incidence and prevalence of latent TB infection and disease among health-care workers.
Potential Biases
Potential publication bias as studies with high TB rates may be more likely to be published.
Limitations
The review may have missed some studies and relied on data from studies with varying methodologies.
Participant Demographics
Health-care workers from low- and middle-income countries.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI 53 to 55
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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