The dual burden of tuberculosis and diabetes mellitus: an epidemiological correlation

This study examined the association between diabetes mellitus and tuberculosis (TB) in a cohort of 200TB-positive patients, stratified by gender, age, treatment regimen, and comorbidities, including diabetes, acute gastroenteritis, and hypertension, compared to TB patients without additional complications. Clinical parameters-Random Blood Sugar (RBS), C-reactive protein (CRP), and Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)-were assessed at baseline and after four months of anti-TB therapy. The results showed no significant changes in mean RBS or CRP levels post-treatment, but a notable reduction in mean ESR was observed. Age and gender had minimal impact on therapeutic outcomes for RBS, CRP, or ESR, though females exhibited higher ESR values than males. Treatment regimens, whether Myrin P Forte alone or combined with streptomycin, did not significantly alter clinical parameters. However, CRP levels improved in TB patients with comorbidities, such as diabetes, hypertension, or gastroenteritis. A significant prevalence of diabetes (21.42%) was found among TB patients, with higher rates in females and those over 50 years. These findings highlight a notable association between diabetes and TB. However, the minimal effect of anti-TB therapy on clinical parameters suggests that ESR and CRP may not be reliable prognostic markers for TB. The study underscores the need for further large-scale case-control studies and molecular research to better understand the relationship between diabetes and TB, particularly given the high prevalence of diabetes among TB patients.