Tuberculosis Among Incarcerated Hispanic Persons in the United States, 1993-2014

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Infectious Disease Control

Background:

• Tuberculosis (TB) surveillance is crucial for understanding disease trends.
• Historically, TB rates have declined, but specific populations may still face higher risks.
• Understanding the demographics of incarcerated TB patients is essential for targeted prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe Hispanic individuals diagnosed with TB during incarceration.
• To compare the characteristics of Hispanic incarcerated TB patients with non-Hispanic counterparts.
• To analyze trends in TB diagnosis among incarcerated Hispanic populations over time.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of the National Tuberculosis Surveillance System data from 2003-2014.
• Comparison of demographic and clinical characteristics between Hispanic and non-Hispanic incarcerated TB patients.
• Examination of patient location (local jails, federal prisons, ICE detention centers).

Main Results:

• The proportion of incarcerated Hispanic TB patients rose from 4.9% (2003) to 8.4% (2014).
• During 2003-2014, 19% of US-born and 86% of foreign-born incarcerated TB patients were Hispanic.
• Foreign birth and recent U.S. arrival were common among Hispanic patients; many foreign-born Hispanics were in ICE detention centers.
• Hispanic patients were twice as likely to be in federal prisons compared to non-Hispanic patients.

Conclusions:

• Foreign-born Hispanic individuals, particularly recent arrivals, represent a significant proportion of incarcerated TB cases.
• Targeted TB screening and prevention strategies are needed in correctional facilities and immigration detention centers.
• Systematic efforts for early TB identification can prevent future cases within this vulnerable population.