Nonlinear pattern of pulmonary tuberculosis among migrants at entry in Kuwait: 1997–2006
2008

Pulmonary Tuberculosis Trends Among Migrants in Kuwait (1997–2006)

Sample size: 2328582 publication Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Akhtar Saeed, Mohammad Hameed GHH

Primary Institution: Kuwait University

Hypothesis

What is the prevalence and time trend of pulmonary tuberculosis among migrant workers entering Kuwait?

Conclusion

The study found a significant nonlinear pattern in tuberculosis cases among migrants, with an initial decline followed by an increase towards the end of the study period.

Supporting Evidence

  • The overall prevalence of tuberculosis among screened migrants was 198 cases per 100,000.
  • Year-specific prevalence declined from 456 cases per 100,000 in 1997 to 124 in 2002.
  • A significant increase in tuberculosis cases was observed towards the end of the study period.

Takeaway

This study looked at how many migrant workers in Kuwait had tuberculosis over ten years, finding that the numbers went down at first but then started to rise again.

Methodology

The study analyzed monthly data on tuberculosis cases among migrants using time series methods over a 10-year period.

Limitations

Limited demographic data and potential underestimation of tuberculosis cases due to undetected infections.

Participant Demographics

Migrants predominantly from tuberculosis high-burden countries, with 46% aged 20 to 44 years.

Statistical Information

P-Value

<0.001

Confidence Interval

95% CI: 424 – 490

Statistical Significance

p<0.001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2458-8-264

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