An Easy Guide to the Risk Factors of Tuberculosis

To reduce the risk of TB, practice good hygiene, get vaccinated if appropriate, and seek regular screenings if you’re at higher risk.

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can spread to other parts of the body.

Many people carry latent TB, meaning that the bacteria are present, but they’re inactive and don’t cause symptoms.

Understanding the risk factors for TB is important, as it helps identify those who are more likely to develop the disease or progress from latent to active TB.

What are the risk factors for tuberculosis?

The risk factors for tuberculosis include the following:

• having a weakened immune system due to:
  • treatments for HIV infection, substance use, corticosteroid use, or organ transplants
  • conditions such as severe kidney disease, head and neck cancer, or autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or Crohn’s disease
• frequent travel to or birth in countries where TB is common, such as parts of Asia, Africa, and Latin America
• living in or having lived in crowded environments like homeless shelters, prisons, or jails
• working in environments where TB is more likely to spread, such as hospitals, schools, nursing homes, correctional facilities, or homeless shelters
• having conditions like diabetes, silicosis, or low body weight

What are the risk factors for TB in pregnancy?

During pregnancy, your immune system undergoes changes to support the developing fetus, which can reduce your body’s ability to fight infections like TB.

Pregnant people are at risk for TB if they have specific risk factors , including:

• Exposure to TB: This includes close contact with someone who has active TB or frequent travel to areas where TB is common.
• Weakened immune system: This includes living with conditions that impair immune function, such as HIV, or taking medications that impair immune function, such as immunosuppressive drugs.
• Low socioeconomic status: Certain living conditions may increase exposure to TB, such as overcrowding or poor sanitation.
• Previous TB exposure: History of latent TB infection, particularly if it was untreated or not properly managed, can increase your risk.
• Chronic health conditions: Conditions such as diabetes or malnutrition that can compromise the immune system and increase susceptibility.

Avoiding TB during pregnancy is very important as it’s linked to a higher risk of:

• maternal morbidity (ill health) and mortality (death)
• pregnancy-related anemia
• miscarriage
• preterm birth
• low birth weight
• neonatal TB

Risk factors for TB across the world

Depending on where you live, your risk factor for TB may be much higher than in other countries.

Countries or regions with underdeveloped healthcare systems may lack the funds for adequate TB testing , prevention, and treatments . Because of TB’s contagious nature , this can cause a feedback loop of new and worsening cases.

The risk factors for TB globally include :

• Close contact with TB patients: Living or working with someone who has active TB increases the risk of infection.
• Weakened immune system: Conditions like HIV, AIDS, diabetes, and malnutrition significantly increase the risk of developing TB.
• Living in or traveling to high TB prevalence areas: Regions with high rates of TB, particularly in parts of Africa, Asia, and Eastern Europe, pose a higher risk.
• Low quality living conditions: Overcrowded living environments, inadequate ventilation, and poor sanitation contribute to the spread of TB.
• Low socioeconomic status: Limited access to healthcare and resources increases the likelihood of both contracting and spreading TB.
• Healthcare workers: Individuals working in healthcare settings where TB patients are treated are at increased risk of exposure.

How can you reduce the risk of tuberculosis?

Keeping your immune system strong is crucial for protecting yourself from TB, as a robust immune system can help prevent the activation of latent TB infection.

However, it’s also important to combine this with other preventive measures , such as the following:

• Get your vaccination: The Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine can help protect against TB, especially in high risk areas. This vaccine is typically only given to children in high risk areas, as it does not offer protection to adults.
• Practice good hygiene: Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and encourage others to do the same. Wear a mask when you’re feeling ill and need to go out in public.
• Improve ventilation: Ensure good airflow in living spaces to reduce the concentration of airborne TB bacteria.
• Avoid close contact: Minimize exposure to individuals with active TB, especially in confined or crowded settings.
• Get regular screenings: Regular TB testing and screenings for at-risk individuals can help in early detection and treatment.
• Address underlying health conditions: Address underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, and maintain a balanced diet to support immune function.

Want to get involved?

There are several charities and activist groups focused on TB prevention, treatment, and advocacy. Some notable organizations include:

• Stop TB Partnership : This is an international organization working to eliminate TB through advocacy, policy, and programs.
• TB Alliance: This is a global nonprofit dedicated to developing and delivering new TB treatments.
• Doctors Without Borders : This organization provides medical care and supports TB treatment in underserved regions.
• American Lung Association : This association focuses on respiratory diseases, including TB, with initiatives for research, advocacy, and education.

Takeaway

Identifying risk factors for tuberculosis, such as close contact with TB patients, a weakened immune system, and low quality living conditions, is essential for effective prevention. Regions with underdeveloped or overtaxed healthcare systems may be at the highest risk for TB.

By focusing on vaccination, practicing good hygiene, and detecting TB early, we can significantly lower the spread and impact of the disease worldwide.