COMPARISON OF TUBERCULOSIS-ASSOCIATED RISK FACTORS BETWEEN THE MACROREGIONS OF PARANÁ, FROM 2012 TO 2022

Abstract

Introduction: Approximately 95% of tuberculosis cases occur in underdeveloped countries. The importance of addressing socioeconomic factors to achieve tuberculosis control is reinforced by the fact that many developed countries experienced a rapid reduction in the tuberculosis burden even without adequate access to high-quality tuberculosis treatment. Objective: To perform a comparison of the main risk factors associated with tuberculosis among the macroregions of the State of Paraná, from 2012 to 2022. Methodology: This is a descriptive, quantitative, and retrospective study, based on data available in the Notifiable Diseases Information System. Analysis and discussion of results: The final sample included a total of 28,327 patients. There was a higher rate of HIV infection in the eastern macroregion (n = 2,156; 15%). In the northern region, alcoholism (n = 1,494; 28%) and smoking (n = 1,681; 31%) predominated. Approximately 6% to 9% were classified as diabetics, and 3% had some form of mental disorder. Regarding the outcome, the percentage of tuberculosis deaths was 4% in all regions. Conclusions: Although the cure rate is high, and there are no differences in mortality rates among regions, it is crucial for public health efforts to focus on education, early detection, and effective tuberculosis treatment, as well as specific programs to address the risk factors identified in each locality, aiming to reduce the incidence of the disease throughout the state.