Trends and Public Health Implications of Tuberculosis Coinfections with HIV, Diabetes, and COVID-19: A Five-Year Study in Srikakulam District
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Abstract
The primary objective of this study was to analyse the trends and public health implications of tuberculosis (TB) coinfections with HIV, diabetes (DM), and COVID-19 in the Srikakulam district over a five-year period (2018-2022). This cross-sectional study utilized data from the Government General Hospital in Srikakulam, focusing on trends in TB notifications, particularly the increasing incidence of extra-pulmonary TB, the declining trend of HIV-reactive TB, and the consistent prevalence of TB-DM coinfections. Additionally, the study explored the low incidence of TB-COVID coinfections. Data analysis was performed using logistic regression and chi-square tests to assess the relationship between variables. The results revealed a significant rise in extra-pulmonary TB cases, a decrease in TB-HIV coinfections, and a stable rate of TB-DM coinfections. Interestingly, TB-COVID coinfections were found to be minimal, suggesting limited interaction between these diseases. The study concludes that integrated healthcare strategies, including enhanced screening, diagnostics, and public awareness campaigns, are essential for effectively managing TB and its associated coinfections. The findings underscore the need for continued research and monitoring to adapt public health interventions to the evolving dynamics of TB coinfections, thereby improving patient outcomes and reducing the overall burden of tuberculosis.