Burden of Tuberculosis in Western Sudan During the Sudan Armed Conflict

Tuberculosis remains the leading cause of death from infectious diseases worldwide. This study assesses the impact of tuberculosis in western Sudan during armed conflict in 2023-2024.

This study was conducted by the respiratory department of El-Obeid Teaching Hospital in North Kordofan State, Sudan. The study encompassed 751 patients with tuberculosis. Data were collected in August 2024. A data collection sheet was developed to compile all pertinent information.

Of the 751 patients, 659 (87.7%) were classified as new cases, 85 (11.3%) as recurrent cases, and seven (9.3%) as multidrug-resistant (MDR). Of the 659 new cases, 470 (86.2%) were male patients, and 206 (91.7%) were female. The majority of patients were aged 26-35 years with 166 (22.1%), followed by those aged 19-25 years at 160 (21.3%) and 36-45 years at 127 (16.9%), totaling 127 individuals.

The incidence rate of tuberculosis rose markedly during the armed conflict in Sudan from 54 per 100,000 to 63 per 100,000 people. During wartime, there was an increase in recurrent disease, non-compliance with treatment methods, and multidrug resistance. The demographics most affected include men, laborers, and individuals employed in gold mining. Extrapulmonary tuberculosis is increasingly detected in lymph nodes, pleura, and abdominal areas. Immediate enhancements to the healthcare system are necessary to prevent the widespread transmission of tuberculosis in Sudan.