Tuberculosis Infection in Adolescents in a High HIV and TB Prevalence Community
Author Information
Author(s): Keren Middelkoop, Linda-Gail Bekker, Hua Liang, Lisa D. H. Aquino, Elaine Sebastian, Landon Myer, Robin Wood
Primary Institution: University of Cape Town
Hypothesis
What is the prevalence and force of tuberculosis infection among adolescents in a high HIV and TB prevalence community?
Conclusion
The study found a high force of tuberculosis infection among adolescents, which is positively associated with increasing age.
Supporting Evidence
- The prevalence of TB infection among HIV-uninfected participants was 54%.
- HIV prevalence in the study was found to be 5%.
- Force of TB infection increased with age, from 3% to 7.3% in adolescents aged 20 years and older.
Takeaway
This study shows that many teenagers in a community with high rates of HIV and TB are getting infected with tuberculosis, especially as they get older.
Methodology
A tuberculin skin test and HIV survey were performed among secondary school learners in a high HIV and TB prevalence community.
Potential Biases
Potential underestimation of TB infection prevalence due to exclusion of HIV-infected participants from the main analysis.
Limitations
The study may not represent all children in the community, particularly those not attending school.
Participant Demographics
Participants were aged 13 to 22 years, with a mean age of 17.5 years, and 59% were female.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.07
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 1.01 - 1.21
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website