Perfil Epidemiológico da Tuberculose no Município de Taubaté – SP, nos anos de 2013 a 2023

Abstract

Introduction: Tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lungs but potentially compromising other organs in the body. It is transmitted through respiratory routes. Objective: To describe the epidemiological profile of tuberculosis in the municipality of Taubaté from 2013 to 2023. Methods: A retrospective, descriptive study was conducted using the Disease and Notification Information System for new, confirmed, and reported cases from 2013 to 2023 in the municipality. The selected variables for the study were sex, age group, race/ethnicity, education level, and clinical-epidemiological variables: form of the disease, associated diseases and conditions, sputum smear microscopy, sputum culture, rapid molecular testing, drug sensitivity testing, HIV status, use of antiretroviral therapy, directly observed therapy, and treatment outcomes. Results: In the selected period, 1,049 new cases were reported, with the majority being male (72.7%), white (66.4%), and the highest frequency occurring in the 25-34 year age group (24.4%). Most cases had incomplete secondary education (32.0%). The most common associated conditions were smoking (20.1%) and HIV (9.1%). The disease was predominantly pulmonary (79.8%), with laboratory confirmation in 75% of cases, positive sputum smear microscopy in the first sputum sample (52.2%), and detectable rifampicin sensitivity through rapid molecular testing (42.8%). The cure rate was 72.6%. Conclusion: Tuberculosis remains a significant public health challenge in the municipality of Taubaté, with a predominance of male patients, white individuals, and comorbidities such as HIV and smoking. The incidence remained high throughout the study period, fluctuating over the years but staying well above the target set by the World Health Organization.