Tuberculosis in the African continent: A comprehensive review

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Tuberculosis (TB) is a significant global health threat, causing millions of deaths annually.
• The rise of drug-resistant TB strains and its link with the HIV epidemic, particularly in Africa, exacerbates the problem.
• Despite past successes, TB treatment has not kept pace with evolving challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the current trends of tuberculosis in Africa.
• To highlight the impact of the HIV epidemic on the TB epidemic in Africa.
• To review recent advances in TB diagnostics and drugs and their implications for control.

Main Methods:

• Review of molecular-based data on drug-sensitive and multidrug-resistant (MDR TB) isolates in Africa.
• Analysis of epidemiological trends and contributing factors, including the HIV epidemic.
• Assessment of recent developments in TB diagnostics and therapeutics.

Main Results:

• Diverse genetic backgrounds observed in African TB isolates, suggesting complex environmental and genetic influences.
• The HIV epidemic is a primary driver of the TB epidemic's growth in Africa.
• Recent advancements in diagnostics and new drugs offer improved treatment options.

Conclusions:

• Enhanced national TB control efforts are imperative, focusing on quality improvement across prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and care.
• Strengthening program management, implementation, and supervision is essential for effective TB control.
• Despite challenges, TB is curable and preventable, necessitating sustained and focused interventions.